20 Mar 2020 | DAYAN Family

Ulziijargal Durvuljin was an impish child who secretly rode her father’s 30 ton truck with trailer. She grew up with large equipment being part of her family and she’s always enjoyed being behind the wheel. It takes a special woman to have the tireless energy and hardworking disposition to fulfill her atypical destiny. 

Ulziijargal.D has become one of the proud women of Dayan Contract Mining LLC. She works 1300m underground at the Oyu Tolgoi project as a specialized underground Heavy Equipment Operator/Miner. She is one of the first female miners of the company who was able to earn an internship resulting in increased productivity. Consequently, she was recognized as “Master Operator” for having the highest productivity in Q3 2019. 

The key criterion for the award is to reward employees who have increased productivity, have incurred no equipment damage, and are without labor conflicts. Her current role with Dayan is a 50 tonne truck driver for mucking. Ulziijargal.D shares: “From the first time I started working on the Oyu Tolgoi project, when I saw people in orange suits, I immediately felt so close to them. I have always been so incredibly fascinated with large, heavy machines and equipment. One day, while I was working at the mine site as a cleaner, my shift had me working in the drying room. When I first entered, I immediately felt a connection to the workers present. The people in the drying room seemed so gladly full of confidence. I had an inner feeling like I was going to be one of them.On March 8, 2013, on my way to enjoy lunch, an Oyu Tolgoi employee gave me a rose with a small picture celebrating International Women’s Day. Simply looking at the mine dump truck in that picture, I set myself the goal of becoming this vehicle’s operator. 

I still keep that picture in my notebook today! Whenever I looked at that picture, my dreams continued to grow. I love machines, and I am thrilled when I see the truck. When I heard that Dayan Contract Mining was hiring women for work underground, without hesitation, I decided to apply. I was so impressed even during my first shift with Dayan. Dayan administrator, Buyka, collected my belongings and provided me with a ride to my room. No one has ever made me feel so welcomed!When I first arrived at the work place, all of the managers stood up and greeted me very kindly. Human Resources representative, Otgonjargal, showed me the way to this meeting, all the while holding my hand to guide me. I was overwhelmed with kindness! At that time, I absorbed so much confidence, and since then, I try to be inspired at every step. Each time Dayan’s Mine Manger, Dan Scott sees me, he always offers a “thumps up” and tells me, “You are good!” which encourages me to be better and better. The first time I entered the underground mine, I recall very well, my trainer held my lunch bag and took me to the crew with Supervisor, Munkhbaatar. They welcomed me kindly again. My first vehicle was a concrete mixer. I am quite proud of that. Keep in mind, I am over 40 years old and working with others who are in their twenties! Even though they are younger, they are very professional with solid experience and knowledge. It is so rewarding to work with them. Being new to the underground environment, there were many challenges I had to conquer at the start. However, when faced with a challenge, my supervisor was always assuring me, “You can do it. If you don’t do it, nobody else will.” I appreciated the faith shown toward me. The more trust I earn presents further opportunity for me. The crew taught me everything from the opening of the valves and hatch, to cleaning the drum and washing the vehicle. 

Dayan Contract Mining LLC has provided me with so many benefits in my life. Our safety meetings begin with the question, “Is there anyone tired? Did you all have a good rest? Is there anyone needing assistance?” I always say, “Let’s solve issues like these TOGETHER”, rather than, “You” or “I”. This is my beautiful team; my crew; my colleagues. Dayan’s amazing culture gives me so much faith, enthusiasm and confidence. It has affected not only my career, but has provided positive change in my life and in my personality. I am so proud to be working for such a great company as Dayan Contract Mining LLC, at the world-class mining operation, Oyu Tolgoi. I will continue to do my best and contribute to the company.”