Embark on the journey of Procheck, a ground-breaking platform founded by extractive industry veteran John Wilkinson and IT guru Russell Hunter.

John Wilkinson, began his journey in the quarry industry straight out of school, working his way up the ranks to ultimately become the CEO of Mineral Product Qualification Council (MPQC). His extensive career took him across the globe, contributing to various facets of the industry, including a significant tenure with Cemex.

On the other side of this dynamic duo is Russell Hunter, the IT programming maestro. With a rich history of working with numerous companies in the extractive industry, Russell Hunter has earned a reputation for developing pioneering systems and databases. His expertise in information technology paved the way for the creation of MP Connect which is addressing the critical need for consolidating training and competency information as well as raising Health and Safety standards within the Minerals Sector.

The Procheck journey began in 2017, with the visionary leadership of John Wilkinson, coupled with Russell Hunter's technical prowess, which led to the foundation for MP Connect for MPQC. Recognising the necessity to streamline and consolidate information, John Wilkinson, as the CEO of MPQC, authorised the creation of a new database to maintain the records of over 150,000 personnel. This monumental task was entrusted to Russell Hunter and his team.

In 2018, collaborative efforts with the Minerals Products Association (MPA) led to the establishment of working groups. Their goal was to enhance data collection and facilitate instant access to information at the site level. The primary objective was to minimise accidents by providing local managers with relevant information. With Russell Hunter already behind the development of MPQC’s database he was the obvious chose for the construction of the platform, which became known as MP Connect.

The year 2019 saw the initiation of trials for MP Connect, with industry giants like Cemex, Breedon, and Hanson actively participating. By the end of the year, over 2000 HGV drivers were issued Smart Cards (MP Connect cards), allowing more than 50 sites instant access to the drivers training and competency information.

The platform's development continued in 2020, incorporating real-world experiences and expanding its functionality with the help of the people who used it. A Learning Management System (LMS) and an e-Learning Platform were added. The platform was also modified to include general contractors, resulting in over 8000 personnel having live MP Connect Accounts by the end of the year.

In 2021, the Minerals Products Association (MPA) recommended the use of MP Connect to all its members. Joliet continued to refine and improve the platform, expanding its capabilities to support over 60 different contractor types. Hanson, a key participant, specified and launched an enhanced LMS Platform (Pathway) for their internal staff who number around 3000.

As the years 2022 and 2023 unfolded, the number of live accounts in use reached an impressive 23,000. The platform delivered real-time information at over 350 sites and supported a diverse range of contractor types. Trials were successfully completed on the 'Company' version, validating the contractor companies associated with individual account holders. By the end of 2023 the new company Procheck Solutions Limited was incorporated in England allowing access to the Connect Platform to a wider user base.

In 2024, a notable turning point was reached for Procheck and MPQC as they forged a pivotal agreement to collaborate closely. This partnership enables Procheck to extend its reach into diverse industry sectors while upholding its dedication to advancing the platform in tandem with MPQC. MP Connect and Procheck have evolved from a necessary solution for the Minerals Sector into a cutting-edge platform with the potential to transform information management across various industries.

The history of Procheck is not merely a chronicle of technological advancements but a testament to the visionary leadership and expertise brought to fruition by John Wilkinson and Russell Hunter. Their combined efforts have not only revolutionised information management in the Minerals Sector but have also paved the way for Procheck to extend its impact across diverse industries.