Some paths in life are destined to be travelled. Those that came before us created fotprints that we are bound to repeat, though often in newer shoes and with different intentions. It is true of the path of many Nevada miners, following in the footsteps of family and friends before them. And it is true of Gerald Chadwell.

When it comes to Nevada mining, Chadwell is born and bred. The Safety and Health Coordinator at Barrick Gold’s Cortez mine in Lander and Eureka Counties joined the industry at an early age: his family owned and operated a gold mine in the Eagle Mountains outside of Baker City, Nevada. Reflecting on his family history, he noted, “I was born to mine in one fashion or another.”

Chadwell has been working at Barrick Gold for 18 years and has worked in the mining industry for a total of 36 years. He said a notable part about working in the industry is the ability for people to rise up in the ranks, regardless of their level of education.

“In general you are limited only by your ability and willingness to participate,” said Chadwell. “At Barrick Cortez, we have superintendents who have only a high school education.”

As safety and health coordinator at his Barrick, Chadwell noted, “Safety is the signature of a professional. When the task is complete, you put your name on it and live with the results.”

He keeps the words of colleague Joe Gray close to heart.

“He told me, ‘Chad, the job will get done, but it’s up to us to decide how it will get done.’ That single statement has acted as a guideline for my decisions when it comes to getting the job done safely.”

Working in mining has brought many benefits to Chadwell’s life. Two of his three daughters are college graduates, a goal they attained through their own hard work and scholarship assistance from his company.

When it comes to free time, Chadwell is thankful for the living that a career in mining has been able to provide for him. There is nothing he likes better than to tour old mining camps in the Northwest with his wife. “We take the four wheelers, shovel and pick and metal detector,” he said.

“My wife and I have enjoyed the fruits of our labor and have been well compensated for our work.”