307-5 Yet Another Supply Chain: Developing Stable Mineral Supplies Through a Thriving Human Capital Supply Chain

Abstract:

Meeting society’s increasing demand for minerals requires skilled individuals at every stage of the mineral supply chain. Talent development is often framed around a few “key roles,” such as exploration geologists or metallurgists, but the larger challenge is ensuring that the right combination of geoscience talent (including geoscience professionals, skilled trades, and geoscience-adjacent occupations) is available throughout the system. Without this breadth and depth of talent, existing mineral supply chains will falter, or if not already established, will fail to develop successfully within a country. We will examine the evolving talent landscape that is needed to support a stable supply of minerals for society’s needs, including geoscience enrollment trends and the growing gap between mineral development demand and the pace at which new workers are entering the field. We will also explore factors such as artificial intelligence, demographic and political pressures, shifting career expectations, and changes in the types of employers hiring geoscientists—especially in Western societies—that are intensifying competition for the people needed to meet future mineral needs. Understanding and addressing the human capital system as a whole will be central to achieving success in managing a stable mineral supply to meet society’s demands.

Geological Society of America Abstracts with Programs. Vol. 58, No. 5, 2026

doi: 10.1130/abs/2026AM-16402

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