Mining has surrounded me my entire life. Being born and raised in Sudbury with family members working in the mines, I knew the importance of mining to my community. Although my initial focus was not on a career in mining, it was an opportunity at Vale Canada that allowed me to explore the world of mining. Working within the Project Management Office at Totten Mine provided me the opportunity to learn about the advancements in health and safety systems, technologies in development, and the cycle of mining.
My career has evolved within mining over the last few years. Initially involved in project management and assisting with the organization of developing projects, I have shifted into the role of Training and Recruitment. This allows me to interact with many people on a daily basis and allows me to explore a new side of mining… the people. Learning the importance of what entices others for taking on a new role, finding the best match for an individual within a crew, or establishing a process/ policy to streamline onboarding systems has been gratifying.
Although I enjoy seeing the success of systems in place and how we can positively impact the mining community with development and operations, I love my job for the people I have been able to work with. I have been incredibly lucky to have worked with insightful individuals with years of experience and knowledge in a variety of fields. It is because of their support and encouragement that I was able to ask questions, further my curiosity about mining, and learn about a wide range of opportunities in the industry.
There are countless benefits within mining! I have experienced this firsthand. I have been able to explore different avenues within the industry that has allowed me to attain a better understanding of the cycle of life within mining. Not only has my knowledge and experience broadened, it has gifted me with the chance to volunteer and plan events to enhance and enforce our bond in the community. As an executive member for Young Mining Professionals Sudbury, I have been able to reach out and meet others within the community to discuss highs and lows of the industry. In helping to plan the inaugural Mining Engagement Conference for Advancement (MECA), I was able to discover the importance of soft-skill development within mining and how we can benefit ourselves and our employers by attaining these skills.
The benefits are unlimited in so many ways and I strongly encourage anyone interested in joining the industry to get curious and explore the opportunities.