S-IMEW Where are they Now?

Queen's University Project Geologist, Uravan Minerals Inc.

Paul Stewart

Queen's University Project Geologist, Uravan Minerals Inc.

S-IMEW to me was like summer camp for geologists. There are few things more fun than running around exploring the bush, underground mines and board rooms with a diverse group of young enthusiastic geologists. Rubbing shoulders with some heavy hitters in the junior and major mining space was also a bonus. S-IMEW was also a great crash course on what to expect working in the junior mining space. This was invaluable knowledge at the time as I began an MSc program in collaboration with a junior mining company shortly after the trip.

Perry Hohn

Mount Royal University Project Geologist, Teck Resources Ltd.

Perry Hohn

Mount Royal University Project Geologist, Teck Resources Ltd.

S-IMEW was an early-career catalyst, deepening my understanding of the mineral exploration and mining industry through unforgettable hands-on experiences. The workshop's blend of theory and practical exercises powerfully demonstrated the broad scope of opportunities available to a geoscientist entering the industry. Networking with industry experts and other students helped forged valuable life-long professional connections and friendships. S-IMEW significantly shaped my career, providing insights and opportunities that continue to influence my path in geology and mineral exploration.

Pierre Grondin LeBlanc

University of Toronto Exploration Geologist, Agnico Eagle Mines

Pierre Grondin LeBlanc

University of Toronto Exploration Geologist, Agnico Eagle Mines

My fondest memory of S-IMEW was meeting all the great people in my group!

Rachel Chouinard

Brock University Project Geologist, SPC Nickel Corporation

Rachel Chouinard

University of Alberta Senior Geologist, APEX Geosciencess

Brock University Project Geologist, SPC Nickel Corporation

Participating in S-IMEW further kindled my love for geology and working outdoors. My fondest memories of the course are the new friendships, gaining knowledge and insight into different facets of the industry, and being inspired by meeting other women in mining.

Rachelle Huppelschoten

S-IMEW 2008

Rachelle Huppelschoten

S-IMEW 2008

University of Alberta Senior Geologist, APEX Geosciencess

Fondest memory of S-IMEW/how S-IMEW helped shape/impact your career/path S-IMEW greatly impacted my choice of career path. Through the workshop I was introduced to new concepts, methods, commodities and deposits showcasing how diverse and multifaceted mineral exploration actually is. I wanted to experience everything mineral exploration had to offer and this is the reason I became a consultant, so that I could learn something new every day.

Rory Krocker

University of Manitoba Project Geologist

Rory Krocker

University of Manitoba Project Geologist

The workshop is where I met Scott Jobin-Bevans who was running the program at the time. It subsequently resulted in my first geology job working for his consulting company. This has come full circle in that I have recently began working with him again. All as a result of my S-IMEW trip. I forged some lifelong friendships, and learnt as much in those two week as any course I took. It was truly the highlight of my academic career.

Rosie Harris

British Columbia Institute of Technology Geotechnical Technician, Norwest Corporation

Rosie Harris

Université Laval Project coordinator, Agnico Eagle

British Columbia Institute of Technology Geotechnical Technician, Norwest Corporation

My fondest memory of S-IMEW would have to be the networking events and the field mapping exercises. The field exercises taught me so much, I got to learn from geologists leading the exercises as well as from my fellow students. I came back from S-IMEW with improved field mapping skills that I have used in various jobs since attending in 2013. The networking events allowed us to meet industry professionals and gave us time to get to know our fellow students better. I still keep in touch with many of the people I met during my two weeks at S-IMEW.

Sara Pedneault

S-IMEW 2017

Sara Pedneault

S-IMEW 2017

Université Laval Project coordinator, Agnico Eagle

S-IMEW significantly enhanced my comprehension of the industry and its various stakeholders. It played a crucial role in boosting my confidence and determination to make meaningful contributions to the mining and geological sector. The individuals we encountered during the S-IMEW were exceptionally inspiring, and I cherish wonderful memories from this field trip.

Sarah Jackson-Brown

S-IMEW 2010

Laurentian University Program Coordinator, MineralsEd

Sarah Jackson-Brown

S-IMEW 2010

Laurentian University Program Coordinator, MineralsEd

The biggest impact that S-IMEW has made on my life and career are the long lasting connections and friendships I made with both industry professionals and colleagues during and after the course.

Seamus Magnus

S-IMEW 2009

Lakehead University Precambrian Geoscientist, Ontario Geological Survey

Seamus Magnus

S-IMEW 2009

Lakehead University Precambrian Geoscientist, Ontario Geological Survey

The coolest thing that I gained from S-IMEW was the nation-wide community of peers that myself and the other participants instantly became a part of. I’ve bumped into students from my year and others at a variety of conventions, meetings and field trips over the last decade; even at non-geology related events like a curling tournament! It’s nice to know that wherever I am in Canada, a friend from my year isn’t far away. It’s often said that the social world of geology is small, which is true; S-IMEW was a great introduction to that community!

Sean Freeborne

S-IMEW 2019

Project Geologist, Appia Rare Earths and Uranium Corp.

Sean Freeborne

S-IMEW 2019

Project Geologist, Appia Rare Earths and Uranium Corp.

The opportunities that S-IMEW gives are immense. The program allows us to gain a well-rounded view of the industry before many of us step into our first roles. My fondest memory of S-IMEW is not one that occurred on the trip itself but one that continuous to evolve as I meet new and old S-IMEW alumni alike as I progress in my career.

S-IMEW installed a sense of curiosity, confidence, and wanderlust in myself which I carry forward into my career today and which will likely influence my career for years to come. Thank you to all the organizers of this event and congratulations to the 2022 crew.

Sean Hillacre

S-IMEW 2015

University of Saskatchewan President & VP Exploration, Standard Uranium Ltd.

Sean Hillacre

S-IMEW 2015

University of Saskatchewan President & VP Exploration, Standard Uranium Ltd.

Attending S-IMEW was a transformative experience that bolstered my career as a professional geoscientist. Beyond the theoretical aspects, the hands-on experience gained during the workshop allowed me to refine my skills and apply them to real-world scenarios. Moreover, the lasting connections forged with industry experts and fellow attendees have proven invaluable, opening doors to collaborative opportunities, mentorship, and professional growth. S-IMEW not only enriched my expertise but also expanded my professional network, making it a milestone in my career journey as a geoscientist.

Shilika Mathur

M.Sc. Economic Geology & Geochemistry, University of Toronto

Shilika Mathur

M.Sc. Economic Geology & Geochemistry, University of Toronto

S-IMEW has helped shape my career path by providing exposure to the mining industry and different types of jobs that are available. In addition, S-IMEW provided the opportunity to network with industry professionals, some of which who have turned into mentors.

Siobhan Mcgoldrick

Senior Lab Instructor, University of Victoria

Siobhan Mcgoldrick

Senior Lab Instructor, University of Victoria

S-IMEW provided a wonderful overview of mining and mineral exploration. It was such an eye-opening trip that showcased the wide variety of geoscience disciplines and career paths in industry. Highlights for me were exploring volcanic rocks around Noranda with Harold Gibson, visiting the shatter cones in Sudbury, and getting hands-on experience with different types of geochemical sampling. I still draw upon topics we discussed at S-IMEW in my teaching today, and now have the privilege of nominating UVic students to attend S-IMEW!

Svieda Ma

Dalhousie University Precambrian Research Geologist, Saskatchewan Geological Survey

Svieda Ma

Dalhousie University Precambrian Research Geologist, Saskatchewan Geological Survey

S-IMEW was a unique and treasured experience that broadened my knowledge of the multifaceted mineral exploration industry. I had little prior exposure to the applied fields of exploration and mining, so I felt fortunate to learn from enthusiastic industry and academic professionals. My fondest memories are of the many field trips and, of course, all the people! It was wonderful to meet fellow students from across Canada and to network with professionals. The S-IMEW experience motivated me to become a well-rounded geoscientist. I am grateful for this opportunity and for the dedicated organizers and volunteers who facilitated such a memorable workshop.

Tara Harvey

University of Guelph Co-Founder, CEO, blue marble learning scene

Tara Harvey

University of Guelph Co-Founder, CEO, blue marble learning scene

S-IMEW was one of those experiences that I think about annually. The hands on experiences and skills I gained have helped me to develop educational materials to inspire a passion for geology through my own business.

Taylor Haid

University of Regina Senior Geologist, Metallic Minerals Corp.

Taylor Haid

University of Regina Senior Geologist, Metallic Minerals Corp.

S-IMEW was without a doubt one of the greatest opportunities and memories of my undergraduate career. The industry members who presented to us provided us with invaluable information on the business side of this industry, which you rarely receive in an academic setting. What has stuck with me most were the friendships and networks that were created with fellow students from all over the country. A decade later, these relationships are still strong, and it is a pleasure reconnecting and seeing the path through industry each individual has taken.

Tim Cross

Acadia University Specialist Geologist - Geometallurgy

Tim Cross

Acadia University Specialist Geologist - Geometallurgy

S-IMEW opened my eyes to how diverse, interesting and well-funded the mining industry really is. My professors desperately wanted me to pursue a career in academia, but the S-IMEW trip gave me a taste for mining and exploration which has taken me around the world, from northern Canada to New Zealand to Australia. It was truly an honour and privilege to be invited and I’ll always be grateful for that experience.

Timothy Chadwick

Carleton University Exploration G.I.T, TMAC Resources

Timothy Chadwick

Global Head of Thermal Coal Market Research, Wood Mackenzie

Carleton University Exploration G.I.T, TMAC Resources

S-IMEW provided me with an invaluable network base; both with industry professionals and young geoscientists starting out in their careers. This network has served me well in my career thus far, and continues to be a valuable asset.

Tony Knutson

S-IMEW 2016

Tony Knutson

S-IMEW 2016

Global Head of Thermal Coal Market Research, Wood Mackenzie

Greetings from Washington DC! At the end of the S-IMEW experience, we were tasked with giving presentations to our group and staff on what the program meant to us. I was inspired to leverage the S-IMEW experience into the next step of my education. I was going to get a Masters like most people in the group. I went on and completed my Master of Earth and Energy Resource Leadership at Queen's University in 2020. I doubt I would have been inspired if I had not challenged myself at S-IMEW. Thank you to all of my S-IMEW 2016 friends and organizers!

Tyler Ciufo

University of Waterloo Junior Geologist, Côté Gold Project, IAMGOLD Corporation

Tyler Ciufo