Arcelor Mittal Achieves Milestone

YEKEPA–ArcelorMittal Liberia (AML) has achieved a major milestone at its mining operations with the certification of 19 Mine Operators from Shift A, who successfully completed an intensive competency-based training program conducted by the Mobile Equipment Training Unit of the ArcelorMittal Liberia Training Academy (AMLTA).

The certification marks the first time AML has issued mine operator certifications aligned with international standards, reinforcing the company’s commitment to operational excellence, safety, and workforce professionalization.

“This is the very first international standards certification for AML,” said Ruth Negash, Manager for Operations Training and Compliance at AMLTA. “This certification is important because it helps align our operations and ensures that our operators are working safely, efficiently, and productively across our mine sites.”

The training program was delivered through a combination of classroom instruction, hands-on equipment operation, and performance-based evaluations. Over several days, participants were rigorously assessed on technical competence, safety awareness, operational discipline, and adherence to modern mining practices. Only operators who met the required standards across all assessment areas were awarded competency certificates.

Beyond improving individual skills, the program is designed to standardize mine operations, reduce operational risk, and strengthen safety culture across AML’s mining activities.

As part of AML’s commitment to motivation and performance recognition, three operators were presented with special awards for outstanding performance. Honors were given to the Best Excavator Operator, Best Dozer Operator, and Best Articulated Dump Truck (ADT) Operator of Shift A. These awardees demonstrated exceptional professionalism, consistency, and mastery of their equipment, setting a benchmark for excellence among their peers.

The certification ceremony also highlighted ArcelorMittal Liberia’s broader investment in Liberian human capital development. Through the AML Training Academy, the company continues to provide structured training programs for Liberians across multiple disciplines, including heavy equipment operation, mechanical and electrical trades, safety and compliance, leadership development, and on-the-job technical mentorship. These programs are aimed at equipping Liberians with transferable, industry-relevant skills that support career growth within AML and beyond the mining sector.

For the newly certified operators of Shift A, the occasion represented both recognition of hard work and a renewed responsibility to uphold high operational and safety standards. For AML, the achievement underscores its ongoing commitment to building a skilled, safety-conscious, and motivated Liberian workforce capable of meeting global mining industry standards.

Alphonso Toweh

Has been in the profession for over twenty years. He has worked for many international media outlets  including: West Africa Magazine, Africa Week Magazine, African Observer and  did occasional reporting for CNN, BBC World Service, Sunday Times, NPR, Radio Deutchewells, Radio Netherlands. He is the current correspondent for Reuters 
 He holds first  MA with honors in International  Relations and a  candidate for second master in International Peace studies and Conflict  Resolution from the University of Liberia.