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Mark Baker receives the 2021 Daniel C. Jackling Award

By Gregg Tiedeman posted 04-07-2021 02:46 PM

  
NEWS RELEASE – April 2, 2021
Mark Baker receives the 2021 Daniel C. Jackling Award

The Society for Mining, Metallurgy & Exploration (SME) is pleased to announce that Mark Baker has received the prestigious Daniel C. Jackling Award. Established in 1953 and funded by the American Institute of Mining, Metallurgical, and Petroleum Engineers (AIME), the Daniel C. Jackling Award is presented for significant contributions to technical progress in mining, geology, and geophysics. The award honors Daniel C. Jackling who was an Honorary Member of AIME and was its President in 1938.

Baker is recognized for his contributions to computerized dispatch-system development and automation in open-pit mines resulting in major improvements in
safety, productivity, and cost in the mining industry. He was acknowledged on SME’s virtual awards video during the Society’s March 1-5, 2021 annual conference.

When he was asked what his first thought was when he learned he was the recipient of Daniel C. Jackling Award, Baker replied, “I must admit, I was quite surprised when I first received notice of the award. I felt (and still feel) truly honored and extremely grateful to be added to the list of distinguished awardees who came before me.”

Baker began his career in mining as a founding principal of Modular Mining Systems and later took over the helm. He was responsible for creating the company’s first rolling business plan that set the stage for unparalleled growth. During his remaining tenure at Komatsu/Modular, he assumed responsibility for the development and commercialization of its Autonomous Haulage System. He has been awarded several patents for an autonomous haul truck design among other mining-related inventions. Upon realizing the potential value from both developing and deployed innovative technologies, Baker started CheckMark Consulting to provide strategic advice to mining operators and OEMs. As an integral team member of the Phelps Dodge/Freeport Mine Technology group, Baker contributed to the development of its in-house Autonomous Haulage and Autonomous Track Dozer systems. Subsequently, he engaged in a five-year relationship with Caterpillar where he provided strategic product development and commercial insight to its MineStar® technologies, including a variety of equipment automation programs. In addition to CheckMark Consulting, Baker is currently a senior partner at Flow Partners and a founding principal of Phoenix Drill Control.

The Society for Mining, Metallurgy & Exploration (SME) brings together the mining and mineral industry’s brightest and most dedicated professionals. Over 13,000 global members advance their careers with world-class technical resources, educational programs, networking opportunities and professional development tools from SME. Our members are focused on sharing best practices for safety, environmental stewardship and moving mining forward. SME. Inspiring mining professionals worldwide.

For more information on SME, contact Jackie Dorr, Communications Manager, dorr@smenet.org.

For further details, see www.smenet.org
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