La Loma, October 28, 2025
Reaffirming its commitment to education and innovation, Drummond Ltd., in alliance with the Fundación Universitaria del Área Andina, Valledupar, developed a technology transfer space focused on the topic “Optimization of coal volumetric calculation through photogrammetry with UAS (Unmanned Aircraft System – or drones)”.
The event was attended by collaborators from the company’s Engineering area, who shared with the academic community the advances and benefits of the use of this tool in mining processes.
UAS photogrammetry consists of capturing aerial images using drones to generate three- dimensional terrain models. This technique allows highly accurate calculation of the volumes of extracted or stored material, optimizing measurement times and reducing margins of error compared to traditional methods. Its application represents a significant advance in terms of efficiency, control and safety within the mining operation.
“These spaces allow us to share with students how the application of technologies such as photogrammetry with UAS optimizes the volumetric calculation of coal. These initiatives strengthen the link between academia and industry, promoting innovation and knowledge transfer,” said Diego Delgado Ariza, mining planning analyst at Drummond Ltd.
During the two-day meeting, Drummond professionals presented their experience in the design and execution of the project, focused on improving volumetric measurement practices and optimizing operational processes through the use of advanced technologies.
“I found this talk interesting because it helps us to strengthen the knowledge we have been acquiring during our academic training. Seeing it reflected from the technical field area helps us to consolidate this knowledge,” said Ardren Olivella Díaz, a mining engineering student at Areandina.
This academic exercise is part of the collaboration actions that Drummond Ltd. has been carrying out with different institutions of higher education, with the objective of transferring knowledge, strengthening the training of future professionals and contributing to the technological development of the region.
“I want to thank Drummond because it has brought a series of trainings to our students that update them on the different technologies that they are handling,” highlighted Esteban Olivella Bendeck, Areandina teacher.
With initiatives such as this one, the company reaffirms its purpose of generating a positive impact through education, innovation and integration between academia and industry, contributing to the sustainable progress of the Colombian Caribbean.