Ok Tedi Mining Limited (OTML) has donated 100 copies of the book Graduate Trainees Practical Tips for Accelerated Learning in Reliability Engineering and Maintenance at Ok Tedi Mine to the Papua New Guinea University of Technology (PNG UoT). The donation fulfils a commitment made by OTML’s Managing Director and CEO, Kedi Ilimbit, during the book’s official launch in mid-2024.
The books were presented by proud author Gilbert Hamambi, who is also OTML’s Manager Business Improvement, during the orientation night of first-year students in the Mechanical Engineering Department.
The books were ordered and received in late 2024, with the presentation strategically scheduled for the beginning of the 2025 academic year to benefit new and continuing students.
Although the content of the book is targeted at graduate trainees in engineering fields, it is also valuable for all university graduates. It introduces an accelerated learning framework built around five core process elements: understanding of a process, process variables, proper control of variables, process capacity, and continuous improvement.
The book aims to develop three (3) foundational knowledge areas for the reader: technical and process understanding; leadership and interpersonal understanding; and conceptual and planning understanding.
Mr Hamambi has compiled practical insights based on industry experience to help accelerate learning in reliability engineering and maintenance which will benefit the engineering students during their studies as well as their formative years in the industry.
“The book is not just about engineering, it’s about developing the mindset required to excel in any professional environment,” Mr Hamambi said.
“It is written based on my practical experience in the industry. This book is not “heavy” or “weighed down” with engineering formulas. One must first grasp the concepts before proceeding to quantify the expected outcomes with parametric engineering formulas and calculations.”
“This version of the book aims to provide high-level qualitative tips based on my personal experience in learning Reliability Engineering and my years of being involved in direct coaching and mentoring interactions with young graduates as well as seasoned professionals alike,” Mr Hamambi said.
The donation comes at a crucial time as PNG UoT works towards enhancing its engineering curriculum. The School of Mechanical Engineering has proposed incorporating Reliability Engineering and Maintenance Management as a major elective, with this book serving as a key reference text.
The book has gained international recognition, ranking among the top 10 books from its publisher in the USA. It is available for purchase online in both hard copy and e-book formats.
OTML encourages its departments to acquire copies for internal training and development, ensuring that employees transitioning into supervisory roles can leverage the knowledge shared in the book.
In addition to PNG UoT, OTML also presented a copy of the book to Lae Polytechnical College. The institution is currently reviewing its programs and hopes the book will provide valuable guidance in aligning technical training with industry expectations.
This initiative highlights OTML’s commitment to education, workforce development, and contributing to Papua New Guinea’s technical expertise in engineering and maintenance while striving to achieve its vision of operational excellence.