Workshop Description
Executive briefing for mining CEOs, CTOs, and operations directors. Covers the dual quantum track: computational advantage (VQE for geological simulation, QUBO for mine planning, autonomous fleet dispatch) and cryptographic obligation (OT SCADA security, supply chain integrity, IEC 62443). Includes BHP, Rio Tinto, and Vale competitive positioning.
Mining faces quantum technology on two fronts simultaneously. The opportunity side: quantum simulation could improve ore characterisation for complex mineral systems, quantum optimisation could enhance pit shell design and block sequencing beyond what Whittle and Gurobi achieve, and quantum-enhanced coordination could manage mixed autonomous and manual fleet dispatch more effectively. The obligation side: mining OT infrastructure (SCADA, DCS, PLCs controlling crushers, conveyors, and ventilation) relies on cryptography that quantum computers will break. Remote mine sites with satellite connectivity and limited on-site compute face particular PQC migration challenges. Supply chain integrity from mine to port depends on authenticated assay certificates, ore tracking, and logistics coordination that must remain trustworthy through the quantum transition. BHP has announced quantum computing research partnerships for mine planning. Rio Tinto is exploring quantum-enhanced geological simulation. Vale is investing in quantum-safe OT security for its Brazilian iron ore operations. This briefing equips executives to understand both tracks, sequence investment decisions, and avoid either over-investing in speculative quantum computing or under-investing in mandatory quantum security.
What participants cover
- Geological simulation opportunity: VQE for mineral characterisation, quantum-enhanced seismic inversion, and current NISQ limits versus DFT baselines
- Mine planning optimisation: QUBO for pit shell design, block sequencing, and equipment dispatch. Quantum annealing versus Whittle on benchmark deposits.
- OT quantum security: SCADA/DCS/PLC cryptographic exposure in remote mining operations with satellite connectivity and limited compute
- Supply chain integrity: PQC for mine-to-port logistics, assay certificate authentication, and ore tracking across multi-national supply chains
- Competitive positioning: how BHP, Rio Tinto, and Vale are investing in quantum technology and what that means for mid-tier and junior miners
- Investment sequencing: balancing speculative quantum computing research spend against mandatory quantum security migration obligations