Her message dragon, Tobias, was dozing in a green heap of shiny paperclips. Bashing big rocks into little rocks. Experience isn't necessary, but funeral experience is a good idea. Tobias glared at him reproachfully through half opened eyes. Miners don't last long anyway.
Lets say a basic geology course required.
She held out the message. Tobias flew into the air, his humming wings a green blur. His blue jewelled eyes gleaming with enthusiasm, he grabbed the message and darted off, straight into the wall. Undaunted he took to the air again and shot up the nearest hole to the surface. Let us be silent for a moment.