Growing up near mines in Smith Valley, Nevada, Zane Swainston’s interest in mining was sparked by learning the history of the Comstock Lode in nearby Virginia City.
Since joining Cementation in 2024, Zane’s early career has already encompassed a broad range of hands-on experience across multiple project sites. In his role with Cementation, he began as a shaft technician supporting a premier gold mining operation in his home state, gained lateral development exposure with a shotcrete crew for a Tier One mining company in Colorado, and progressed into a project engineer role supporting construction work for a leading producer in specialty markets. Working across multiple sites and seeing projects through from start to finish has shaped his practical, solutions-focused approach.
Zane’s journey highlights the opportunity to explore different paths, gain meaningful experience early, and grow within an industry that continues to evolve and remain essential.
Zane’s advice for anyone starting in mining: Take initiative and connect with people in the industry.
Want to learn more about Zane or get advice on how to start your career in mining? Visit us at booth 1507 at this year’s SME MineXChange. See you there!
