Jessa Vatcher
About
Dr Jessa Vatcher, PhD, MBA, is a distinguished expert in the field of rock mechanics and numerical modelling, with a career marked by innovation, leadership, and a commitment to advancing the industry. With over a decade of experience, Jessa has honed her expertise in geomechanical engineering, becoming a pivotal figure in the mining, construction, and energy sectors.
Jessa's academic journey began at Queen’s University in Canada, where she completed a Bachelor’s degree in Mining Engineering, followed by a Master's degree in Mining Engineering, focusing on rock mechanics. Her passion for the subject led her to Luleå University of Technology in Sweden, where she earned a Licentiate degree and later a Doctorate. Her doctoral thesis, Listening to the Story of the Rock Mass, is a testament to her deep engagement with the intricacies of rock behavior, statistical analysis, and numerical modelling. Jessa’s penchant for learning continued with an MBA degree.
Throughout her career, Jessa has been at the forefront of complex projects. Her projects are identifiable by an innovative twist, in the way in which the work was completed or in the analysis itself. During her time at Itasca Consultants AB, Jessa worked on countless projects in rock mechanics, most often with numerical modelling. These projects ranged from practical applications of numerical modelling, such as guiding mine sequencing from a stress management perspective, to more research-based projects, such as Bonded Block Modelling (BBM) to simulate spalling and the use of new statistical techniques to run and analyze models. Jessa has continued her career with Sweco Sverige AB as Group Manager Rock Engineering in Northern Sweden. Her love for numerical modelling remains strong as she branches out into broader challenges within rock engineering.
Abstract
Are we in the Golden Age of numerical modelling?
A Golden Age is often defined as time of prosperity, production, achievement, creativity, and political stability. Can we describe the current state of numerical modelling in rock mechanics as a Golden Age? The art of numerical modelling has seen many advancements and innovation in recent times. Modellers are now able to look deeper at questions the branch has long posed, moving our fundamental understanding of rock mechanics forward. A review of state-of-the-art modelling tools, techniques, and frameworks shows how complex situations are being investigated by engineers and researchers, leading us to well-suited solutions. From microscopic to mine scale, modellers are pushing the boundaries of modern rock engineering. Case studies are presented to highlight successful applications of these innovations in mining, tunnelling, and geomechanical engineering. By examining current trends and future directions, let us discuss the potential of numerical modeling as a cornerstone for solving contemporary challenges in rock mechanics. Ultimately, readers are invited to ponder whether we are indeed in a Golden Age of numerical modeling, characterized by unparalleled opportunities for research and practical applications in rock engineering.