VOL. 08 | ISSUE 4 | Winter 2025 / 2026
Our
Voices
What is something you have done to support your career growth in 2025?
KIMBERLY AVILA
Lab Technician II-Technology Center Tucson
“In 2025, I’ve focused on growing both academically and professionally. I’ve continued pursuing my degree in geosciences, and at the same time, taken on duties at work that challenge me to think critically, improve processes and collaborate across teams. Balancing school and work hasn’t been easy, but it has helped me build resilience, sharpen my skills and stay motivated toward my long-term career goals.”
MICHAEL BOROSKI
Security Supervisor / K9 Handler–Sierrita
“I worked with supervision to bring a new program to Sierrita’s security department. I sought out additional training to advance my skillset and my career.”
ELLA BOWER
HR Generalist I-Climax
“In 2025, I took on an HR Gig (short-term projects offered to help employees develop new skills) leading civility training sessions for Bagdad. I gained valuable cross-site experience that strengthened my skills in employee relations, communications, and building a respectful workplace culture—equipping me to better support my teams at Climax and across Colorado.”
BRANDON BRIGGS
Chemist I-Central Analytical Services Center
“In 2025, I supported my career growth by being proactive and open to new learning opportunities as a chemist. Whether it involved developing new analytical processes or sharing my knowledge with others, each experience played a meaningful role in my development within the field.”
ALEXANDRA BURNS
Senior Project Engineer-Fort Madison
“In 2025, I actively invested in my professional development and pushed myself outside my comfort zone, prioritizing growth through formalized leadership trainings, seizing new opportunities and stepping up and taking the lead. By evaluating my own leadership style and gaining specialized technical expertise in bulk material conveyance, I’ve prepared myself to contribute more effectively at a higher level as a leader and project manager.”
MAX ERICKSON
Senior Electrical Engineer-Henderson
“This year I had the opportunity to take on a dual role in engineering and electrical supervision support. It has helped me improve my leadership skills greatly all while building strong relationships with the people that my projects effect every day.”
ISAAC FAUNCE
Supervisor, Mine Maintenance-Morenci
“I believe my career growth is shaped by my employees, peers and management. This year, I’ve focused on learning through listening, regardless of someone’s role or experience level. I was once told, ‘You may hear a story five times from five different people, and it’s always better to listen, you might learn something new each time.’ That advice stuck with me. By staying open and attentive, I’ve gained valuable insights and perspectives that continue to support my growth.”
JULIE GARCIA
Supervisor Laboratory-Central Analytical Services Center
“In 2025, I’ve actively supported my career growth by learning from the strong leadership around me. I’m fortunate to have great leaders whose knowledge and guidance I truly value. I’ve also taken advantage of available training opportunities — both online and in person — to expand my skills. Additionally, I’ve learned a great deal from my own team. Each member brings unique expertise, and by engaging with them, I’ve deepened my understanding of areas I wasn’t familiar with before. I believe that seeking knowledge is essential, and it can help with individual career growth.”
JUSTIN GOJKOVICH
Senior Health and Safety Lead-Chino
“I coordinated a successful fire response that minimized risk and ensured the safety of all personnel through swift action and clear communication. I also supported contractors in auditing their process at different mine sites to ensure continuity and standardization.”
AMY HUDMAN
Senior Planner-Morenci
“In 2025, I prioritized advancing my strategic planning capabilities by deepening my expertise in data driven decision making and gaining proficiency in the new S4 Hana system. This enabled me to optimize planning workflows and enhance data accuracy. I worked closely with cross functional teams including operations and supply chain to improve planning efficiency and ensure alignment across departments.”
FRANK MARINEZ
Primary Crusher Supervisor-Sierrita
“In 2025, I attended Aubrey Daniels leadership training at Sierrita. It was great going over structured ways of interacting with your direct reports and learning different methods of providing constructive feedback.”
CESAR NUNEZ
Senior Accountant-El Paso
“I’ve supported my career growth by spending time in the field building relationships with those involved in day-to-day operations, making my presence known and gaining valuable insight. I’ve also taken advantage of training opportunities to develop new skills and expand my knowledge, ensuring I stay current and continue adding value to the organization.”
LORENZO SOSA
Anode Casting Supervisor-El Paso
“Never say no to new beginnings and do your best. I started working for Phelps Dodge back in 1996 as a laborer. The things I have done to advance my career have been to do my best, being willing to try new things, to not give up and to be as safe as possible while doing it.”
BRANDON TODD
Contract Control Specialist-Fort Madison
“In 2025, I’ve strengthened our contractor relationships by working directly with ISNet and contractors to ensure our health, safety, environmental, and process standards are clearly understood and effectively implemented. I’ve taken a hands-on approach—meeting one-on-one to guide them through setup, documentation, and compliance—so every contractor aligns with our expectations and safety culture from the start.”
CHRISTINA WALLACE
Senior Accountant-Technology Center Tucson
“I have made myself available and willing to help wherever I am needed. Embrace challenges given to me. Do my job to the best of my ability. Ask for help when I don’t know something.”