Could you please provide more detailed explanations on how Finning maintained its supply chain continuity amid the pandemic?

Certainly. Finning was able to maintain its supply chain continuity amid the pandemic by taking all possible measures to ensure the safety of its employees. Over a thousand employees started working from home, and special Covid-19 protocols were applied to every job. Workspaces were adapted to ensure social distancing, and multiple campaigns were created to help with the mental health of the personnel and their families. In addition, the Operational Continuity Committee was established to manage and secure all the required equipment and spare parts in the inventory of Finning and its customers to continue supplying them.

Could you also explain how Finning’s distribution agreement with Resemin better positions the company in the Chilean underground market?

Certainly. Finning’s distribution agreement with Resemin has enabled the company to offer a more comprehensive portfolio in the underground market, which was previously a product line shortage in relation to underground. This representation of Resemin has given Finning a substantial position with the jumbo and other relevant lines. Moreover, Finning has the representation of Elphinstone for Special Underground Auxiliary Equipment. Today, Finning has the largest portfolio and the most comprehensive lines of equipment for underground mines, all under the umbrella of one company. The positive feedback received from customers shows that Resemin is a great addition to what Finning offers.

Could you give us an overview of the technology Finning offers in autonomous mining?

Finning has developed a robust strategy that starts with a new specialized organization that includes qualified managers, engineers and a complete organization platform in autonomous projects to support the customers from the conceptual idea up to the implementation, all in close connection with CAT and with our organization in Finning Canada. As part of our training for autonomous operators, we invested in a Simulation School located in our facilities in Antofagasta, and being replicated in Santiago to prepare for upcoming projects.

By mid 2021, Finning will work with Teck Resources’ Quebrada Blanca Phase 2 (QB2) project on the Autonomous Mode, which is Finning’s first open-pit project of this kind. It will operate with the Diesel Electric Truck CAT 794 AC. In underground mining, Finning is working with Codelco’s El Teniente in the second phase of the semi-autonomous project with great success, and there is interest in extending this plan for the mine.

We are witnessing strong commitment and demand from customers to move to autonomy. Caterpillar’s autonomous system is the best option for customers, as it allows for a 30% increase in productivity and has many advantages compared to other brands in the market, as it can run both on the CAT fleets but also on different equipment from other brands, as well as in a mixed mode.

What products and services does Finning offer that emphasize sustainability?

Finning is heading in a more sustainable direction by collaborating with Caterpillar and other companies in the mining industry to achieve the goal of eliminating gas emissions by 2040. Many mining companies are already switching to renewable energies to reach this goal. Moreover, Finning believes in building capacity for the future by partnering with communities to empower learning and training the future generation in science, technology, engineering, and math. The company is also committed to decreasing the gender gap in the mining industry by providing free training and scholarships to women.

What are the barriers to mining innovation in Chile?

There are no significant barriers to innovation in the mining industry in Chile, which has made tremendous innovations over the last few years. Approximately 95% of the demand for renewable energy in Chile came from the mining industry. The desalination plants are supporting the increasing investment in technology development within the industry.