Can you provide an update on the University of Toronto’s mining portfolio?

LW: In lockstep with the industry’s ongoing transformation to meet the net zero transition, the University of Toronto has streamlined its mining portfolio of talent development and multi-disciplinary research to increase the pace of climate-positive innovation and generate the skilled workforce required to lead that transition. We have rebranded as U of T Mining. U of T Mining focuses on the development of innovative solutions to extract, process, and reuse resources as sustainably as possible, as well as a robust and diversified talent pipeline that can support sector transformation.

SG: The University of Toronto’s undergraduate Lassonde Mineral Engineering program experienced significant enrollment growth, with first-year student numbers rising from 26 in 2023 to 54 in 2024. This positive trend reflects a broader increase across mining programs nationwide. Historically, enrollment in mining programs has followed the cyclical nature of the industry. Still, current increases may also reflect a growing recognition of mining’s critical role in addressing global challenges, such as supporting the energy transition, whilst ensuring environmental and social outcomes are positive. To sustain this momentum and enhance student retention, we are continually updating our curriculum to better align with the existing and future landscape of mining, ensuring our graduates are well-prepared to contribute effectively to the evolving demands of the mining sector.

What will be important areas of focus for Mining Futures?

LW: Mining Futures is a research-intensive initiative that grew out of extensive industry consultation to address the need for new innovative strategies and technologies that improve environmental and social outcomes, as well as expanded workforce skills, competencies, and diversity required for sector transformation. This values-driven approach resonates with students who are passionate about climate-positive solutions, fostering greater interest in our mining programming.

How does the University of Toronto attract people to mining?

SG: Mining has a compelling story to tell, particularly its vital role in building a sustainable future. We host recruiting events where grade twelve students visit campus to learn about programs like mining engineering. However, many are hearing about mining for the first time, which is often too late in the process for them to consider a new career path. This highlights the need for earlier outreach to ensure students are informed about the industry and its opportunities. Additionally, mining is not just for those beginning their academic journeys—it is also an accessible path for individuals transitioning from careers in other fields. To support this, we have developed the Mining Industry Management Program, a series of industry-led online courses designed to help professionals transition into the mining sector and support the continuing education needs of mining professionals.

LW: Mining has an important role in helping to decarbonize our economies and support the energy transition through responsibly sourced critical minerals and metals. This story, which highlights the sector’s growing commitment to sustainability and participation in solutions development, appeals to the strong moral compass of our students.

What is the government doing to help boost enrollment for mining courses?

LW: Governments drive policy that supports the well-being of their constituents across economic, environmental, and social dimensions. Currently, the global wake-up to the need for critical minerals and metals has revealed several global, national, and provincial tensions concerning responsible sourcing, resilient production, and robust supply chains. The recognition that mining must play a central role has shone a spotlight on the sector, highlighting its importance to broader society.

What is next for the University of Toronto’s mining department in 2025?

SG: In 2025, we will continue strengthening partnerships with industry to enhance experiential learning opportunities for our students. Building on initiatives such as field trips and collaborative projects, we aim to provide even greater exposure to real-world mining operations, further enriching their understanding of the sector.

LW: At Mining Futures, we are driven to solve mining’s grand challenge to balance greater production of critical minerals and metals whilst radically transforming environmental performance, and rights-holders and community partnerships.