1628 range of activities. The model aims to combine educational and practical experiences through a structured approach that includes shared lectures, master classes, regional networks, research collaboration, champion programs, field trips, continuous professional training, webinars, and equipment donations. By establishing a central hub that serves as the nexus of coordination, the model ensures consistent quality and strategic alignment across all participating entities. The spoke universities and industry partners contribute to and benefit from the collaborative efforts, creating a dynamic network that fosters innovation, enhances educational outcomes, and ensures the sustainability of the partnership. This structure not only promotes effective knowledge transfer and resource sharing but also addresses regional needs, engages communities, and adapts to changing industry and academic landscapes. After the first round of activities conducted in 2023 by the Ibero-American network, a positive impact was identified addressing several stakeholders part of the mining ecosystem. Effective execution involved defining short and mid-term goals, deliverables, and KPIs. Communication strategies were essential for maintaining engagement with customer centres, general managers, and universities. Signing MoUs and partnership agreements is the starting point to formalise the collaboration and expand the network. Establishing contacts, having a direct communication with the OEM and the university, and setting the project along Epiroc’ s strategy for quality education, were critical components in managing expectations and the success of the implementation. Issues such as intellectual property concerns and long-term relationship maintenance were identified as key challenges. Figure 2: Overview of the stakeholders from the side of the OEM involved along the project development roadmap Project management principles were integrated to ensure clear objectives, key outputs, and continuous development and integration. To ensure the longevity and sustainability of the collaboration, Epiroc developed a model incorporating initiating, planning, stakeholder engagement, execution, and monitoring and controlling processes, as well as internal communication within the company. This approach aimed to create community engagement strategies, define regional needs, and allocate resources effectively. The model involved a central hub university coordinating with various spoke universities, industry partners, and institutions. This structure facilitated integrated lectures, master classes, regional networks, research collaboration, and continuous professional training. The robust project management framework underpins the sustainability of the proposed collaboration model described with the following steps:
RkJQdWJsaXNoZXIy MTM0Mzk2