Michael Genockey was awarded the New Professional Award at the Australasian Institute of Mining and Metallurgy (AusIMM) awards dinner on April 21.

The award recognises the contribution by a new professional to the minerals industry through operational, academic, service or other notable achievement.

Mr Genockey grew up in McLaren Vale, South Australia and studied a double degree in Mining Engineering and Geology at Adelaide University, graduating in 2015 with first-class honours.

He has been involved with the AusIMM for eight years since joining the Adelaide Student Chapter while studying a double degree in mining and geology.

Mr Genockey joined the North West Queensland Branch committee as secretary when he moved to Mount Isa in 2016.

Mount Isa Mines Copper Mine Services superintendent Gibson Chitumbura said Michael has consistently demonstrated skill and ability beyond his years of experience since starting out as a new graduate with Mount Isa Mines two years ago.

“Michael has been a key member of the Mine Operations team, contributing to several successful key projects and even taking on the responsibility of acting senior engineer and superintendent roles,” Mr Chitumbura said.

“He’s a go getter who I think will have a very robust career in the industry and is no doubt a future mining industry leader.”