S2E23 From Trial-and-Error to Virtual Twins: Simulating and Mining | Michelle Ash (SIMULIA)

Mining has always been a physical industry. When we want to test a new idea, we often install equipment, modify a process, and see what happens. But what if we could test those decisions before touching the operation? In this episode of MineWarp, Empie Strydom sits down with Michelle Ash, CEO of SIMULIA at Dassault Systèmes and one of the mining industry's most respected technology leaders. Michelle explains how engineering simulation, virtual twins, AI, and physics-based modelling are changing the way companies design, optimize, and operate complex systems. Drawing on more than 30 years of mining experience, from blasting engineer to executive leadership roles at BHP, Barrick, MMG, Oz Minerals and Dassault, she shares why the future belongs to digitally enabled companies that happen to produce minerals. Topics include: 1. Simulation-driven enterprises 2. Virtual twins vs traditional digital twins 3. AI and physics-based modelling 4. Why mining still relies heavily on physical experimentation 5. Democratizing simulation through cloud and automation 6. The future role of engineers 7. How virtual testing can reduce risk, cost and time-to-value 8. Opportunities for mining, energy and infrastructure industries If you are interested in mining innovation, digital transformation, engineering technology, AI, or operational excellence, this episode is for you.