Can you update us on recent developments at MineConnect?

MineConnect grew significantly over the past five years, not only as it relates to membership, which has increased by 225%, but also in terms of programming and activities. We made a concerted effort to increase our presence throughout Northern Ontario, attending and hosting events in all five of the larger centers as well as in other communities that have a high concentration of mining supply companies, such as Temiskaming Shores. This helped attract new members from Thunder Bay where we saw a 50% growth during 2023. It has also played a key role in maintaining a retention rate of 95%.  

Can you detail the evolution of the partnership with the Nevada Governor’s Office of Economic Development (GOED) and the Northeastern Nevada Regional Development Authority (NNRDA)?

There is a major labor market crunch in Nevada which posed challenges for finding and retaining a qualified in-market rep. Regardless, some companies engaged in our program successfully landed contracts. The goal is to open the door and give companies a way in, which we have succeeded in doing. The 10-year relationship we had with the GOED and the NNRDA paved the way for the recent MoU signed between Nevada and Ontario. Nevada and Ontario have the critical minerals, mines, and technology for EVs, and the MoU provides additional credibility and runway for partnership projects on both sides of the border. We have established a working group to not only identify opportunities for advancement but to work together on initiatives that are beneficial to our respective mining economies.

What has MineConnect done to address the skilled labor shortage?

As a representative for MineConnect, I have made presentations in high schools about careers in mining to help change perceptions and demonstrate that mining is not just about working in a dirty environment for long hours. I show students what a mine looks like, the growing diversity in the industry, and the possibilities in non-traditional mining jobs— in drones, technology and community engagement, for example. The Goodman School of Mines created and hosted a mine opportunity challenge for high school students to get them excited about mining. We are helping deliver the program throughout Northern Ontario, and scheduled sessions for North Bay, Timmins and Thunder Bay. We are also hosting a panel for post-secondary students in North Bay with panelists all under 30 to tell their career stories and the diverse paths that led them to mining.

We partner with post-secondary institutions, mine operators and organizations to promote careers in mining. An example is our work with ACCES Employment, a national organization matching employers with pre-vetted trained professionals from abroad who have been approved to work in Canada. 

Are you seeing more women in the industry?

I have attended PDAC since 2006. When I first went, I did not cross paths with many other women. Now, when I look around the room, there are lots of women, which is incredibly encouraging. 

We have partnered with Women in Mining on various initiatives, and at PDAC 2024, we will be co-hosting a session with Vale focusing on Diversity and Inclusion. MineConnect is continually working to increase our knowledge and capacity with respect to D&I. For example, our board and staff recently participated in an Indigenous Awareness training session led by board member Randi Ray.  

What challenges are your members currently facing?

The biggest challenge is attracting and retaining labor. We are trying to get our members to change the way they think about retention; it is not just about money. It is also about valuing employee contributions, giving them room and opportunities to grow, and providing training to allow them to envision a path for upward mobility. Many of our members have been around for a long time; shifting their mindset can be difficult. 

Do you have a final message for our audience?

To mine operators: MineConnect provides a source of legitimate and reputable suppliers that can meet nearly any product or service need you may have at any stage of the game. From a MineConnect perspective, we focus on collaboration and partnership with like-minded organizations. We do not want to compete, but to work together to help the industry grow.