Being promoted to product manager in early 2023, Michael Stone has spearheaded the production of LiveMine’s newest app, EXM for explosives management which is taking the market by storm.

“After creating tech for both the defence and agriculture industries, mining has been a whole new experience for me.”

Getting up to speed quickly on all things mining was a priority for Mike, “I've travelled to over 10 different mines, both open pit and underground, and been exposed directly to WA's massive mining community. I’m grateful for the opportunity to work closely with experienced operators, engineers and PM’s who have been generous to pass on their knowledge.”

This first-hand experience has been invaluable in creating software solutions that improve daily activities on-site. "When engineers and shifties have been working for 12 hours straight, the last thing they want to do is hang back to deal with data or technology issues."

Michael often represents LiveMine at conferences and events, travelling around Australia and recently to the USA to promote EXM and learn more about the different mining practices in different locations. “Travelling to the US was great, getting to speak to engineers about everything they do differently to Aussies is interesting but surprisingly, a lot is the same.”

It’s his passion for mining and technology that motivates Michael to continue to immerse himself in the industry, collaborating with the LiveMine site champions to ensure the product suite is the best it can be.

“I will always be amazed by the community feel of the industry, despite being so large.”

Mike has had the opportunity to experience age-old site traditions, "On my first site visit, I fell for the old stope rat trick and was watching out for them as we drove down the decline. Just a couple of weeks ago I carried on the tradition by warning my mate about the stope rats right before he started his first day as a bogger operator."

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