Posted on 17 May 2025

PETRA Data Science says it will contribute its evolving insights into the role of artificial intelligence (AI) in mining at two major industry events this year.

Founder and CEO, Dr Penny Stewart, will represent the team at the Global Mining Guidelines Group (GMG) Brisbane Forum in July and the AusIMM APCOM (Application of Computers and Operations Research in the Minerals Industry) 2025 conference in August.

Since 2017, PETRA has been known for developing some of the world’s first machine-learning models deployed in mining operations. Demonstrating the company’s deep site experience and engineering focus, Stewart will challenge conventional narratives about trustworthy AI and examine whether this term, commonly used in global AI policy frameworks, is practically useful for mining operations, the company says.

“While the notion of trustworthy AI provides a useful framework for governments aiming to safeguard the public, our industry already operates within mature legal and commercial frameworks that support safe, reliable AI deployment,” she said.

The PETRA team believes that terms like “trust” risk shifting the focus away from accountability.

“We should be less concerned about whether the AI itself is ‘trustworthy’, and more focused on whether the developers and deployers of AI meet the same professional, regulatory and contractual standards expected of any engineering, equipment and technology suppliers,” Stewart added.

Across the two conferences, Stewart will highlight how existing health and safety legislation, standard mining procurement contracts, supplier warranties and data security clauses already mitigate many AI-related risks. She also provide insights into PETRA’s emphasis on the importance of business value, user feedback, change management and workforce acceptance when integrating AI into operations.

These presentations are designed to offer a grounded, experience-based perspective on AI accountability, reflecting PETRA’s company-wide commitment to safe and practical AI applications in mining.

The GMG Brisbane Forum is scheduled for July 16–17 at the University of Queensland, and the APCOM Conference is in Perth from August 10–13, 2025.