Copper Mining in the Corridor

Doing the right thing as a company, according to Robin Bradford, is about being more than a good neighbor.

“It’s about being a positive contributor to society,” she says, “above and beyond the economies of copper.”

A Globe-Miami native, and longtime Freeport-McMoRan employee, Robin works on community action with the decision makers in her hometown. Although it can seem slow from the outside, she notes, progress is happening.

“Economic development and community planning is a long game,” she says, “but we’re all on the same road. It’s happening, and it’s real.” “Relationships are what my job is about.”

Big Picture Responsibilities As the Senior Specialist in Community Development and Social Responsibility for Freeport-McMoRan’s Miami operation, Robin helps identify and execute strategic and sustainable programs that positively impact both the community and FreeportMcMoRan’s workforce. Programs range from health and wellness, to education and training and economic development.

“I get to learn and be part of the great things that are happening here,” she says, “and look for ways that I can bring in resources that can help get things done.”

She cites progress on a community housing study as an example of the strong relationships that exist and team effort underway. “A lot of partnerships are coming together right now,” says Robin. “The communities (Globe, Miami, Gila County) are truly collaborating.”

Day to Day • 1/3 Building positive and lasting relationships with a wide range of stakeholders • 1/3 Managing relationships, partnerships and social investments with community organizations • 1/3 Managing potential social issues, impacts and risks that will or could affect operations

How did you begin your career in mining?

Growing up in Miami, Robin was always intrigued by the mines. Although her family didn’t work in mining, many of her friends’ families did. She was impressed by the expertise required in the industry. “Mining professions seemed very prestigious,” she says. “I always thought it was interesting.”

ROBIN BRADFORD Senior Specialist, Community Development & Social Responsibility Freeport-McMoRan Inc.

Robin began her career in mining doing administrative work for an engineering firm contractor. When she was hired by Cyprus Amax Minerals Company in the Resource Recycling department, she was able to visit the smelter, worked with customers bringing in precious metal feedstock and began to understand the copper mining business.

“I had the realization of how important the Globe-Miami mining district is to Arizona,” she says, “and how important copper is to the world.” Robin worked for the president of Miami operations and was executive secretary for three general managers. Over time, she began to create her own niche in community relations. During that time, Cyprus was acquired by Phelps Dodge, a company that supported a “quiet philanthropy.” Robin interacted with various managers -- land, environmental, technical -- and initiated studies in public relations. She got involved in community events; for one of her many projects in those early years, she chaired the Gila County branch of Partnership for a Drug-Free America. Freeport-McMoRan acquired Phelps Dodge in 2007, and Robin’s role in community relations expanded. Freeport-McMoRan has a major framework for community development and has been awardwinning in their efforts, which include biodiversity projects, community outreach and volunteer programs. “I’m really proud to work for a company with these resources to help out,” says Robin, “and the towns are matching the energy.”

Changes you have observed in the mining industry?

With 24 years of experience in mining, Robin has seen a lot of positive change in the industry.

“Industry standards and stakeholder expectations have evolved,” she says. “There is more environmental stewardship, more responsible operations.”

Advice for women interested in mining careers

“There is a lot of opportunity for advancement, for leadership,” says Robin. “Women are welcome – and needed.”

She lists the diversity of careers and work environments (indoor, outdoor, rural, urban, travel), the vitality of the work, and potential for top compensation as other draws to the industry.

“Mining is a vital field,” Robin concludes. “You can be proud of working in the mining industry.”

Favorite Quote

“Work hard and be nice to people.”

Robin Bradford, Globe-Miami native, now lives here with her daughter and grandson. She enjoys exploring antique shops, museums and historic places.

BHP

As of February 29, a portion of the Old Dominion Mine Park was closed indefinitely due to BHP’s operations. We sincerely apologize to the community who enjoy the park and all those who have put time and effort into the park’s creation.

We recognize the importance of the park to local recreation and tourism, and we have been proud of this partnership over the past ten years. We are committed to finding alternative solutions for the partial closure, including developing additional trail sections and pursuing opportunities for new recreational spaces.

We will work closely with Gila County, the City of Globe, and the Town of Miami to develop a community investment plan over the coming weeks. BHP values being part of the communities in Miami and Globe – we believe in a sustainable future here, and are committed to working together to achieve shared long-term success.

If you have any questions or concerns about BHP’s operations, please contact us at (928) 275-1715 or communityconcerns.na@bhp.com.

FREEPORT-McMoRan INC.

Freeport-McMoRan Inc. is pleased to announce the application window for the 2020 Community Investment Funds for Globe-Miami will be open from January 15–March 15th.

“Working in collaboration with a range of committed community partners, we’re continuing to focus on empowering citizens through opportunities to acquire a broad range of skills, education and leadership to foster community resilience and transformation that leads to sustainability,” said Tracy Bame, President, Freeport-McMoRan Foundation.

The Globe-Miami CIF was established in 2013 to focus on programs and projects that help create sustainability and reduce dependency on any single industry. Eligible programs and projects include those in the areas of education, community and economic development, as well as health and wellness. For details please see: www.freeportinmycommunity.com.

RESOLUTION COPPER

Robotics Do you know the Globe Robotics Team? The team took home the State Championship for the First Tech Challenge (FTC) in Flagstaff, AZ. The field of competitors was fierce and challenging. The program now shifts its focus to the First Robotics Challenge (FRC) during the spring semester. In past years, the team has held the top defensive ranking out of 3,700 teams at the FRC. The talent in these kids is astonishing. Our partnership with the Globe USD Robotics program dates back to 2014.

SME Partnership Also, Rio Tinto and the Society for Mining, Metallurgy & Exploration (SME) recently signed a multi year partnership that will provide valuable professional development opportunities to Rio Tinto employees. The new agreement will provide SME memberships to 150 employees across Rio Tinto. We will also be a sponsor for SME’s Young Leaders Network and an SME Foundation Roundtable Partner, which supports a pipeline of mining academic resources.