What was a vision just a year ago, is now reality – the new Integrated Operations Center (IOC) at Mosaic’s FishHawk office is officially up and running. Designed to integrate operations remotely, the IOC accesses information from various operational systems allowing employees to make real-time, data-driven decisions about mining operations from a central location.

The IOC is just one part of Mosaic’s strategic priorities to improve profitability and competitiveness in the North America business by utilizing revolutionary NextGEN technology to impact how we operate. When fully connected with all of our mine sites, this center will serve as “mission control” for our Florida operations – helping us leverage new technology, empower our workforce, increase our competitiveness and find new ways to deliver on our commitment to safe, responsible operations.

Marking a major milestone in realizing the implementation of the IOC, the first of our sites recently came fully online with employees running field operations miles away from where the actual work is being completed. 

“It’s taken a tremendous effort to get to where we are today, and I couldn’t be prouder of our team,” said Kelly Strong, Vice President – Mining. “Integrating operations is a focus across our North America Business, and getting this IOC up and running gives us a glimpse of what’s possible. We’re all learning from each other as we work together to shape the future of our business.

The IOC included developing innovative systems to access and integrate our mine sites. One of the most exciting elements of these was the integration of Remote Operation Stations where operators use what look like modern video game consoles that provide improved functionality to support remote operations. The stations are fully adjustable and designed with ergonomics in mind – providing an innovative, safer, more efficient solution for our operators.

“When we were approached about this idea a while back, it seemed far-fetched. I thought to myself, ‘I’ll believe it when I see it,’” said Sean Brownlee, Hydraulic Operator. “Now I’m here – operating pits, some of which are 50 miles away, in what looks like a very high-tech gaming chair and from the comfort of an office. I’m enjoying it!”

Learn more about this innovative NextGEN technology here.