Walt Humphries

How did you get your start in the mineral industry?

Back in my high school days, when considering a career, I made a list of what I liked, including the earth sciences, working in the great outdoors, and doing something mentally and physically challenging. I wanted something that allowed freedom to pursue my many other interests.

I decided to go to the Haileybury School of Mines. While there, I went to my first PDAC in 1968. In the summers I worked in the bush. When I graduated, I won the PDAC Award for the highest marks in geology and mineralogy.

I worked for several companies, learned a lot about mineral exploration, and I 1974, opened my own contract and consulting business, based in Yellowknife and working primarily in the NWT and Nunavut. I had the time, as an independent prospector, to stake and develop my own properties and option them to companies. I could balance working in the field, plus painting, writing and reading.

Over the years, I received the MAX Distinguished Service Award from the Government of the Northwest Territories and NWT and Nunavut Chamber of mines, as well as an honorary membership from the NWT and NU Association of Professional Engineers and Geoscientists. I’m a well-known NWT artist and write a weekly newspaper column, Tales from the Dump for Northern News Services. I teach prospecting courses across the north and online and keep working towards opening a museum with the Yellowknife Historical Society.

All of this was sparked by an interest in mineral exploration and the PDAC. 

What advice would you give to someone who is considering a career in the mineral industry?

My advice to you is to find a job and career that you truly enjoy. One that allows you time to explore and develop your other interests as well. It is important to balance your life. Don’t limit yourself. Be curious and learn as much as you can about everything you can.

It takes 4 years at school to get a degree in geology or engineering. It also takes you a decade or more of working in the field to learn how to prospect or become good at mineral exploration. Unfortunately, schools or universities don’t teach many of the things you need to know in the practical sense. I believe prospecting and mineral exploration should be taught in schools and become practical sciences on their own. They are also art forms.

Try to view every job as a learning experience. Pass on to others what you have learned and listen to what others have learned. You never know when a random bit of knowledge will come in handy. Keep an open mind. Learn about the history of mining and geology, the environment and ecology of the areas where you work. They all play a part in finding things.

Also, I believe one should give back as much as one takes. This applies to society, civilization, and the environment. Development and ecology should go hand in hand. We live on an amazing planet; it’s up to us to protect and preserve it. Most of all, enjoy what you do.