Dr. Donald M. Leishman Convention Experience

BSC Geology

"If you are someone who also knows little to nothing about the mining industry, attending PDAC is one of the best ways to learn. The industry is nothing like what it used to be, and it was truly inspiring getting to see the work that goes on behind the scenes to make the industry what it is today. Responsible and safe mining of minerals and metals is possible, actively happening, and crucial to society. I am happy to say that I secured my very first industry job in mineral exploration that I will be starting this summer, and I cannot wait to get back out into the field."

MEng Engineering Science

"I left with meaningful connections that I can always reach out to at any point in my career – for advice or guidance. The experience taught me the importance of opening myself to the opportunities around me, especially now that I am in a transition state – done with my master’s and looking for other opportunities."

BASc Geological Engineering

"The experience left me departing this year's convention feeling inspired, empowered and motivated by the infectious energy within the mining community. Every individual I came across was overwhelmingly eager to provide guidance and mentorship to someone early in their career like myself, reinforcing my passion for the industry."

BSC Geology

"The amount of meaningful advice and insight I received—not only from Nathan Monash but from many industry professionals—was incredible. I now have several mentorship contacts I can turn to for advice and support. These connections are a big part of what made my first PDAC experience so special. I am incredibly thankful to the Leishman family for this opportunity, and I will carry these memories and experiences with me as I move forward in my career."

MSc Geology

"Attending PDAC 2025 has been a transformative experience. This incredible opportunity allowed me to connect with professionals from across the mining and exploration industries. A highlight of this journey was being part of the Leishman Convention Experience cohort, a program dedicated to encourage the next generation of geoscientists and industry leaders by giving them the chance to attend PDAC for the first time. I am grateful for the opportunity to learn from experienced mentors, build valuable networks, and deepen my understanding of the mining sector. A huge thank you to everyone who made this possible."

BSC Geology

“I am thankful for the Leishman family’s generosity in providing me the opportunity to attend the 2024 PDAC conference. Attending the technical sessions and seminars increased my awareness of recent developments and trends in the mineral exploration industry. The most beneficial part of this experience for me was attending the Awards Gala, where I met top company executives and learned about industry achievements and innovations.” 

BSc Environmental Geoscience

“The Convention was so much larger than I could have imagined, but this community is so incredible and I’m so glad to be a part of it. The experience and connections I made at my first PDAC Convention are invaluable, and would not have been possible without the Leishman family,”

MSc Geology

“Attending the PDAC Convention 2024 was a unique and rewarding experience for me. I gained important feedback about projects and how the mining industry is working to be innovative and sustainable.”

BSc Geology

"This experience is not one I will forget soon, and I encourage all students who have not been to PDAC before to submit an application for it. I felt the generosity of the Leishman family throughout this experience and I believe their contribution to bringing students to the conference reflects their father’s values and enhances his legacy."

BSc Honours Cooperative Geochemistry

"As a student, attending PDAC is extremely advantageous for your career in the mining industry and, I made plenty of invaluable connections that I will reach out to post-graduation. I would most certainly love to repeat my PDAC experience. It was rewarding in so many different ways. I have shared my amazing experience with many of my classmates and network, who would be crazy not to apply for this rewarding experience!"

BSc Earth Science & Chemistry

"I was able to secure a job at the Keno Hill site with Hecla in the Yukon starting August 30th, which was pretty incredible because they offered me the position 6 months in advance! I would absolutely recommend any student attend PDAC, as it is so important to network and make connections as early on as possible. Having the convention fully funded made it even more incredible. If it wasn’t for the award, I would not have attended PDAC and not realized how valuable attending conventions is."

MSc Earth Science

"We were lucky to meet the Leishman family, some PDAC Directors, politicians and industry professionals. Everyone was very kind, friendly and gave us advice that will help us in not only our professional life but also our personal lives. This experience was very important to me, since it allowed me to learn new concepts, learn about the trend of critical minerals and a bit of the geology of some participating countries. I learned that this industry is propelled by good friendships that are formed and grow over time. This first experience at the PDAC Convention would not have been the same without the generosity and sponsorship of the Leishman family."