I changed from exploration geologist fifo in campaign style (2 weeks on site and 1 week at the office) to Database administrator 4 years after having kids. I got the right opportunity. I replaced a friend during her maternity leave and then she came back part time, same as me so we could job share. I had to have an au pair during 6months to help me when getting used to the new job and because of fifo husband on various types of rosters. The main challenges were to care for the kids (drop off and pick up at day care and kindy at some stage) and managing the kids when husband was away as well as learning a completely new job even if still related to geology in a way but requiring a lot of concentration which can be hard with lack of sleep due to young children…
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Emilie
Mother of two (pre-teens)Database Geologist
Advice for other mums
Get an office based job before it happens and never trust mining companies when you tell them you are pregnant (save every email, communications and know your rights), some could still try to make you redundant instead of trying to accommodate if they can justify.