2025 Skookum Jim Award
This award is named after Skookum Jim, the Indigenous leader of the group that discovered the Yukon Klondike goldfields, one of Canada’s most important mineral discoveries. Recipients of this award must be from a recognized Indigenous group in Canada (Metis, Inuit, First Nation) and have demonstrated exceptional achievement and/or service in an Indigenous business organization operating in the Canadian mining industry and/or a Canadian Indigenous exploration or mining company or have made a significant individual contribution to the mining industry.
David Kritterdlik
For groundbreaking work promoting Inuit values, cultural preservation, and sustainable development.
David Kritterdlik was selected for the 2025 Skookum Jim Award due to his transformative leadership in integrating Inuit Qaujimajatuqangit (IQ) values into the mining industry. As Agnico Eagle’s Inuit Qaujimajatuqangit and Wildlife Advisor, David has played a pivotal role in bridging traditional Inuit knowledge and western science, particularly in his home region of Nunavut.
One of his most significant achievements is the creation of the Kivalliq Elders Advisory Committee (KEAC), a pioneering initiative that unites over 20 elders from seven communities in the Kivalliq region. Under David’s leadership, the Kivalliq Inuit Elders Advisory Committee (KEAC) provides invaluable guidance to the Meliadine and Meadowbank mines on topics such as wildlife, water management, climate change, fish habitat, employment and community wellbeing. His consultative approach ensures that the committee is community-driven and fair, preserving cultural integrity by holding all meetings in Inuktitut with translation support.
David's efforts extend beyond corporate governance. His work was instrumental in the implementation of the $5 million Inunnguiniq Project, fostering partnerships with local organizations to support community well-being through initiatives like breakfast programs and literacy efforts for children. His advocacy has also shaped Agnico Eagle’s regulatory process by bringing the gap between IQ and western science and thus ensuring that mining practices align with Inuit Societal Values and traditional knowledge guiding principles.
David’s influence is further recognized as a model for other resource companies and government bodies. His contributions have inspired similar advisory structures in British Columbia’s regulatory processes and discussions within CIRNAC related to UNDRIP legislation.
For his groundbreaking work in promoting Inuit values, cultural preservation, and sustainable development, David Kritterdlik truly embodies the spirit of the Skookum Jim Award.
Awards Gala & Nite Cap
2025 PDAC Awards Recipients
Dating back to 1977, the PDAC Awards recognize outstanding performers in the Canadian and international mineral exploration and mining industry for their achievements and overall excellence. Recipients are selected by the PDAC Board of Directors based on recommendations from the PDAC Awards Committee.
The 2025 Recipients will be celebrated at the Awards Gala & Nite Cap on March 4, 2025 at the Fairmont Royal York Hotel in Toronto during the PDAC 2025 Convention.
