AML Certifies 19 Mine Operators-First International-Standard Certification Sets New Benchmark

MONROVIA – ArcelorMittal Liberia (AML) has reached a significant milestone in workforce development with the certification of 19 mine operators from Shift A, marking the company’s first operator certifications aligned with international standards. The achievement signals a deliberate push toward higher operational discipline, safety compliance, and global best practices within AML’s mining operations. By formalizing competency-based certification through its Training Academy, AML is positioning professional skills development as a central pillar of productivity, risk reduction, and long-term sustainability in Liberia’s mining sector. The Analyst reports.

International-Standard Certification Achieved

The certification was awarded following the successful completion of an intensive competency-based training program conducted by the Mobile Equipment Training Unit of the ArcelorMittal Liberia Training Academy (AMLTA). It represents the first time mine operators at AML have been formally certified in line with internationally recognized standards.

“This is the very first international standards certification for AML,” said Ruth Negash, Manager for Operations Training and Compliance at AMLTA. “This certification is important because it helps align our operations and ensures that our operators are working safely, efficiently, and productively across our mine sites.”

Rigorous Training and Assessment Process

The training combined classroom instruction, hands-on equipment operation, and performance-based evaluations. Over several days, participants were assessed on technical competence, safety awareness, operational discipline, and adherence to modern mining practices.

Only operators who met the required benchmarks across all assessment areas were awarded competency certificates, reinforcing the program’s emphasis on merit, accountability, and measurable performance.

Strengthening Safety and Operational Consistency

Beyond individual skill enhancement, the certification program is designed to standardize mine operations, reduce operational risk, and strengthen AML’s safety culture across its mining activities.

By aligning operator performance with international standards, AML aims to ensure consistency in equipment handling, minimize accidents, and improve overall operational efficiency.

Outstanding Performers Recognized

As part of its performance recognition initiative, AML presented special awards to three operators for outstanding achievement. Honors were awarded to the Best Excavator Operator, Best Dozer Operator, and Best Articulated Dump Truck (ADT) Operator of Shift A.

The awardees were cited for exceptional professionalism, consistency, and mastery of their respective equipment, setting a benchmark for excellence among their peers.

The certification ceremony also underscored AML’s broader investment in Liberian workforce development. Through the AML Training Academy, the company continues to deliver structured training programs across multiple disciplines, including heavy equipment operation, mechanical and electrical trades, safety and compliance, leadership development, and on-the-job technical mentorship.

These initiatives are designed to equip Liberians with transferable, industry-relevant skills that support career advancement both within AML and beyond the mining sector.

Raising the Bar for Mining Operations

For the newly certified operators, the achievement represents recognition of dedication and a renewed responsibility to uphold high operational and safety standards. For ArcelorMittal Liberia, the milestone reinforces its commitment to building a skilled, safety-conscious, and globally competitive Liberian workforce.