CMEWA Women in Resources Awards finalist – Linda Deverell

Congratulations to Linda Deverell from our Western Australia team who was today announced as a finalist in the Outstanding Operator, Technician or Tradeswoman category for the Chamber of Minerals and Energy WA (CMEWA) 2021 Women in Resources Awards. 

 
Linda, a Mine Production Controller, Crew Trainer and Mobile Plant Operator, has worked in the resources sector for more than eight years and is widely recognised for sharing knowledge and promoting female participation in the industry. 
 
“Since I started working at Thiess, my goal has been to champion diversity and inclusion and ensure greater gender balance within the resources sector,” Linda said. 
 
“At the start of my career I had to overcome misconceptions that I was filling a gender quota rather than being recognised for my work ethic and skillset.”
 
 As a passionate leader, Linda has a proactive approach to safety and educates her teammates on the importance of being risk-aware, following rules and speaking up if they see something unsafe. 
 
“For many years I was a member of our site’s Emergency Response Team and have been voted Safety Representative by my crew three years in a row (2016 - 2019),” Linda said. 
 
“I’m focused on helping my team members retain knowledge and learn new skills to ensure we maintain a safe working environment for us all.”   
 
A strong advocate for mental health and wellbeing, Linda counsels her peers, in particular young women, to maintain a healthy work, life balance. 
 
“I try to keep fit and healthy myself by spending time outdoors with my husband, family and friends, and together we often participate in events hosted by the Leinster Sport and Recreation Association,” Linda said. 
 
“I also enjoy participating in the Leinster community school events and the Women in Mining WA Mentoring Program, helping to promote Thiess as an employer choice for women.” 
 
The winners of the 2021 Women in Resources Awards will be announced in March.