When Brandon Gibbs joined the WA Mining Club’s Emerging Leaders Program, he was a young project manager looking for direction, growth, and connection within the mining industry. Fast forward to today, he’s the General Manager of a growing business, leading a team that’s more than quadrupled in size.
So, what changed? “I knew I needed someone in my corner,” says Brandon. “That’s why I joined the WA Mining Club and the Emerging Leaders Program. I wanted access to people who had walked the path before me.”
He was paired with industry leader Barry Upton, Vice President of the WA Mining Club. With over four decades of international experience in underground mining and shaft sinking, Barry brings a wealth of knowledge as a mentor. He co-founded the Get Into Mining Camps, leads the Education Engagement portfolio, including scholarships and STEM, and contributes to both the Finance and Young Professionals sub-committees. Barry’s support became a turning point in Brandon’s journey. “Barry helped me figure out how to have the right conversations with the business owner, that led to me stepping into a bigger role,” he says.
Brandon didn’t just step into that opportunity, he made the most of it. When the company’s GM stepped down for personal reasons, Barry encouraged him to put his hand up. “He helped me prepare to negotiate my package and take on the role with confidence,” says Brandon.
One of the biggest challenges? Transitioning from project delivery to managing people and running a business. “Delegating was hard. I was still doing my old job while trying to be GM. I was working stupid hours. One of the best things Barry helped me with was how to delegate properly and build balance. If you bury yourself in work, it trickles down to the team.”
The growth wasn’t just professional, it was also personal. Brandon learned to lead from the ground up. “I brought my project management mindset into the GM role, but people management is a whole other world. It’s not just about deadlines, it’s about culture, clarity, and team dynamics.”
And while the formal part of the program is over, the mentoring hasn’t stopped. “We still catch up. It’s refreshing to talk to someone who’s not directly involved, but understands the pressures. Having that external sounding board is invaluable.”
Brandon’s journey began with a sports-focused life, uni studies, and working in hospitality, eventually landing a project role and then climbing to GM within three years. “Right place, right time. But more than that, it was about having my head down, learning from people, and knowing when to reach out for support. That’s what the Emerging Leaders Program gave me.”
He credits the WA Mining Club’s Young Professionals (YP) events with helping him ease into the Club. “YP was a great way to meet people in a relaxed setting. Then when I went to my first luncheon, I already knew some faces. It made it so much less daunting.”
His advice for new mentees? “Don’t stress about your first meeting. Focus on building rapport first. Once you have trust, the goals and growth come naturally. The more you put into the program, the more you’ll get out of it.”
Brandon’s story is a perfect example of what the WA Mining Club’s Emerging Leaders Program is all about; developing the next generation of mining professionals through real connection, mentorship, and community. And judging by his continued success, it’s clear the impact goes far beyond the program itself.
