SQM Launches the 2026 Trainee Program and Strengthens Its Commitment to Young Talent

SQM has officially launched a new edition of its Professionals in Training – Trainee Program 2026, a strategic initiative aimed at preparing the young talent that will lead the future of the Mine Leaching Operations Vice Presidency at the Nueva Victoria operation, located in Pozo Almonte.

The event was attended by operation leaders, Human Resources teams, and site management, who welcomed the professionals beginning this training journey—designed as a long-term investment in people development and business sustainability.

The Trainee Program 2026 seeks to attract and select high-potential professionals, providing them with comprehensive training that enables them to project themselves into key operational roles. Through this initiative, the company reinforces a core conviction: investing in early talent development is an investment in safety, innovation, leadership, and continuous improvement.

The selection process drew from a broad pool of applicants following a call published on the SQM careers portal and LinkedIn, targeting recently graduated professionals from various engineering disciplines. After a rigorous evaluation process, those selected join the company under permanent contracts and become part of an 18-month training program at the Nueva Victoria operation.

Mario González, Superintendent of Loading and Hauling at Nueva Victoria, emphasized that “this program has a very clear purpose: to bring in new talent, develop it, and project it toward future strategic positions within SQM. We are very pleased to welcome the trainee engineers joining Nueva Victoria today. This is not only a challenge for them, but also for us as leaders—to support, challenge, and guide them throughout this process.”

During the event, it was highlighted that the program does not require immediate expertise, but does demand the right attitude, a strong commitment to safety, operational discipline, and a genuine willingness to learn—values that are essential to perform in a highly demanding operational environment and to contribute to the sustainable development of the operation.

Lisbeth Yurisch, a Mining Civil Engineer from USACH, joins the Drilling and Blasting Superintendency, viewing this challenge as a significant long-term development opportunity. “I hope to grow comprehensively, combining on-site technical learning with a real understanding of production processes, adapting to the demands of the mining industry to consolidate my professional career within the company and continuously contribute to the achievement of its objectives.”

A Symbolic Beginning Full of Meaning

One of the most meaningful moments of the ceremony was the symbolic delivery of the safety helmet and welcome kit to each trainee, alongside their respective area leaders. This gesture officially marked their incorporation into the Nueva Victoria operation and symbolized the commitment to life, respect for safety standards, and a strong sense of belonging to the organization.

“The helmet is not just personal protective equipment; it represents the responsibility to always work safely, taking care of oneself and those around us,” was emphasized during the event.

The day concluded with an official group photograph, formally welcoming the new professionals in training and closing a ceremony that reaffirms SQM’s commitment to developing purpose-driven talent, with a future-focused vision and a strong commitment to operational excellence.