Since 2017, the West’s awareness of its strategic vulnerabilities in critical minerals has been growing – yet in reality, little progress has been made.
How have various policies progressed or hindered the development of a domestic supply chain in the US and the West more broadly? What is the new Trump administration's approach to critical minerals? How is that impacting former efforts like the Inflation Reduction Act? And what does it mean for China and its response? Just how close are we to experiencing an outright scarcity of these critical minerals in the US and the West? And what would that mean for our economies?
Speaking to our host Paul Chapman on this episode is mining entrepreneur and former Deputy Director for Batteries and Critical Materials at the US Department of Energy, Ashley Zumwalt-Forbes.
Key Talent Takeaways
Specialised Talent in Critical Minerals is Scarce and Highly Valuable
The rapid evolution of the critical minerals sector has created a demand for professionals with niche expertise in upstream, midstream, and downstream processes. Individuals with experience in both industry (like mining or battery manufacturing) and government policy are particularly valuable due to their understanding of supply chain challenges and regulatory landscapes.
Strategic and Analytical Skills are Crucial in Navigating Supply Chain Complexities
Given the geopolitical tensions and evolving regulatory landscape surrounding critical minerals, organisations need talent capable of strategic thinking and advanced analysis. Professionals must understand how policy shifts, trade restrictions, and global supply chain dynamics impact the industry, allowing them to make informed decisions that safeguard supply security.
Engineering and Technical Expertise Remains Critical
The midstream and downstream segments of the supply chain are heavily reliant on advanced engineering skills, including materials science, chemical processing, and advanced manufacturing. However, the Western world has a shortage of such expertise, with much of the technical know-how concentrated in China. Talent strategies must focus on developing or acquiring this expertise to ensure supply chain resilience.
Policy and Regulatory Expertise is a Competitive Advantage
With the constant evolution of US policies—ranging from the Inflation Reduction Act (IRA) to new export controls under different administrations—organisations need talent that can not only understand regulatory changes but also actively engage in policy advocacy. This includes professionals with experience in government agencies, such as the US Department of Energy or Department of Defence.
Attracting and Retaining Top Talent Requires Stability and Clarity
Uncertainty around policies and funding, as seen with the recent pauses on Department of Energy grants, has led to talent leaving government roles for more secure and lucrative positions in the private sector. Employers must offer not just competitive compensation but also clear career pathways and a sense of mission to retain experts in this critical area.
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