Mauri Vele, a graduate geologist from the University of Papua New Guinea (UPNG) is finding the real-world working experience rewarding. Maure recently joined the Mineral Resources Development Company (MRDC) after graduating from UPNG in April of this year.

She was a former recipient of the Education Subsidy Program sponsored by the GR PNGLNG Pant Limited, a landowner subsidiary company of MRDC.

Since joining MRDC’s Technical division, Mauri has quickly adapted to the MRDC collaborative work environment.

“Returning to MRDC full-time after completing an internship in 2024 has been a rewarding experience for me.

“I am currently responsible for monitoring two resource projects while also gaining a broader understanding of the various mining and petroleum interests within the MRDC portfolio,” Mauri explained.

“The environment is fast-paced and challenging, which has helped me grow professionally and personally.”

One of the enriching experience has been the opportunity to participate in stakeholder engagements and internal technical meetings.

“These experiences have provided exposure to high-level industry discussions and enhanced my technical knowledge and confidence beyond what was learned at university.

Mauri believes she has gained a deeper appreciation of MRDC’s role in safeguarding the interests of project beneficiaries and landowners.

“I note that the company’s technical oversight including reviewing project plans and monitoring progress plays a critical role in ensuring that resource projects deliver benefits to communities.