Bradken set out to solve a critical problem in mining: lost or worn Ground Engaging Tools (GET) can go unnoticed during operation, causing major equipment damage and up to $80,000 per hour in downtime.

The solution was a real-time monitoring system that alerts operators to issues before they cause failures, while also helping mine sites plan maintenance and reduce risk. The system has been proven in some of the world’s toughest mining environments and is already delivering value by reducing downtime and improving site safety.

My role was to take the idea from concept through development and into site trial — managing the full journey from early concepts, through prototyping and field deployment. I also personally joined the team on an international site trial in remote Africa, ensuring the system could be validated in live production and gathering direct feedback from operators.