This image gallery highlights some of our S-IMEW Alumni. Scroll through to learn how S-IMEW impacted their career choices and share in some of their favorite memories.
View All S-IMEW Alumni
Clear
Showing 1-30 of 89 results
Aidan Ditchburn Trout
Aidan Ditchburn-Trout
S-IMEW 2015
McGill University
Advisor, Government of Canada
Aidan Ditchburn Trout
Aidan Ditchburn-Trout
S-IMEW 2015
McGill University
Advisor, Government of Canada
Experiencing LaRonde's underground mine and witnessing the grandeur and size of the development.
Amy nelson
Amy Nelson
S-IMEW 2008
Dalhousie University
GIS Analyst, City of Grande Prairie
Amy nelson
Amy Nelson
S-IMEW 2008
Dalhousie University
GIS Analyst, City of Grande Prairie
Going underground in Val D'or was something that really opened my eyes about mining. I ended up working at a gold mine afterward and having that exposure to the underground ahead of time helped prepare me for what to expect. I am currently working in GIS but hope to get back into geology in the near future with my own company.
Anne belanger
Anne Belanger
S-IMEW 2010
Dalhousie University
Project Geologist - Modeling, Teck Resources
Anne belanger
Anne Belanger
S-IMEW 2010
Dalhousie University
Project Geologist - Modeling, Teck Resources
Leading up to S-IMEW I had little interest in participating in the mineral exploration industry after graduation. Throughout S-IMEW we were exposed to so many elements of the mineral exploration and mining industries, and we were shown that the industry is really trying to become more socially responsible. My perspective of the industry changed and I was immediately drawn to pursue a career in mineral exploration. The relationships created with fellow S-IMEW students, staff and volunteers are an integral aspect to S-IMEW’s long-standing beneficial impact on my life and career.
April bertrand
April Bertrand
S-IMEW 2011
Laurentian University
Mine Geologist, Kirkland Lake Gold Inc.
April bertrand
April Bertrand
S-IMEW 2011
Laurentian University
Mine Geologist, Kirkland Lake Gold Inc.
Although I now work in the production sector, my summers as a student and my first job post-graduation were in exploration. S-IMEW was the first in-depth experience where I was able to physically see all of the steps from mineral exploration to deposit definition to mine operation. I think having experience in both exploration and production is a significant asset to any geologist's knowledge base, and I am still overwhelmed by all that I was able to see and learn in such a short time during S-IMEW. I also found it a comfortable, intimate setting for innumerable networking opportunities that were second to none. To say the least, it's an event not to be missed!
Ayat baig
Ayat Baig
S-IMEW 2012
Brandon University
Geologist, Hemlo Mine, Barrick Gold Corp.
Ayat baig
Ayat Baig
S-IMEW 2012
Brandon University
Geologist, Hemlo Mine, Barrick Gold Corp.
S-IMEW was an invaluable experience. The evening talks in particular were inspiring and the site visits gave me insight into the broad scope of the Canadian mining industry and the great people working in it.
2013 ben williams
Benjamin Williams
S-IMEW 2013
Saint Mary's University
Senior Geologist,Transition Metals Corp.
2013 ben williams
Benjamin Williams
S-IMEW 2013
Saint Mary's University
Senior Geologist,Transition Metals Corp.
S-IMEW, a transformative experience, holds a special place in my heart as it played a pivotal role in shaping my career trajectory. Networking with like-minded individuals during the events proved to be an invaluable experience, exposing me to a diverse array of opinions and experiences within industry. The collaborative environment fostered rich discussions and exchange of innovative ideas, significantly influencing my personal and professional growth. This unique platform continues to cultivate connections which are instrumental in navigating and shaping my career path.
Brent trevisan
Brent Trevisan
S-IMEW 2011
University of Alberta
Environmental Scientist, Stantec Consulting Ltd.
Brent trevisan
Brent Trevisan
S-IMEW 2011
University of Alberta
Environmental Scientist, Stantec Consulting Ltd.
My fondest memory of S-IMEW was the Levack mine tour. The tour was a real eye opener to underground mining. The tour was also a great example of a Ni-Cu-PGE magmatic sulphide deposit in the Sudbury Igneous Complex. Ni-Cu-PGE exploration later became the focus of my MSc thesis and employment contracts in short. Overall S-IMEW provided excellent exposure to the mining industry making me feel comfortable with my choice of career path.
Brett hannigan
Brett Hannigan
S-IMEW 2009
Simon Fraser University
Director, Corporate Development & Sustainability, Ero Copper
Brett hannigan
Brett Hannigan
S-IMEW 2009
Simon Fraser University
Director, Corporate Development & Sustainability, Ero Copper
My fondest memory of S-IMEW 2009 was hearing Keith Barron talk about his career and in particular the discovery of Fruta del Norte in Ecuador, which interestingly enough has just reached commercial production! I also met an incredible group of students at S-IMEW, many of whom I am still in contact with!
Brianna séjourné
Brianna Sejourne
S-IMEW 2008
University of Ottawa
Exploration Geologist, Casa Berardi Mine, Hecla Québec
Brianna séjourné
Brianna Sejourne
S-IMEW 2008
University of Ottawa
Exploration Geologist, Casa Berardi Mine, Hecla Québec
S-IMEW is the best thing that has happened to me in geology! Having participated (2008), volunteered (2010), and worked (2011-2013) for S-IMEW I have since accumulated a wealth of knowledge, networking skills and confidence that has been my “golden ticket” to success. From the field trips and lectures led by experts along with their imparted passion, commitment and guidance I can honestly say S-IMEW is the foundation on which I was able to place the building blocks for my career. Now here I am a successful exploration geologist! Thank you S-IMEW staff/volunteers, sponsors, and students - YOU ROCK!
Bryan farbridge min
Bryan Farbridge
S-IMEW 2010
British Columbia Institute of Technology
Chief Planning Engineer, Hecla - Lucky Friday Mine.
Bryan farbridge min
Bryan Farbridge
S-IMEW 2010
British Columbia Institute of Technology
Chief Planning Engineer, Hecla - Lucky Friday Mine.
S-IMEW gave me an opportunity to see an entirely new segment of the industry; several deep underground mines, a smelter, and two mining districts with unique geology and mining challenges. Although my career has taken me more towards the production mining side of the industry, the geologic foundation that S-IMEW helped build has been extremely valuable. The networking opportunities were excellent, and I continue to stay in contact with several people from that group to this day.
Candice ying woei ooi
Candice Ying Woei Ooi
S-IMEW 2018
University of Toronto
Geologist-in-Training, TMAC Resources
Candice ying woei ooi
Candice Ying Woei Ooi
S-IMEW 2018
University of Toronto
Geologist-in-Training, TMAC Resources
S-IMEW is an eye-opening experience which gave me better understanding in both exploration and production geology through mine visits and technical sessions. This experience allowed me to connect with industry professionals which has helped me a lot in navigating my careers and motivated me to strive in the mining industry.
Carl corriveau
Carl Corriveau
S-IMEW 2007
Université du Québec à Montréal
Vice President Exploration, Sayona
Carl corriveau
Carl Corriveau
S-IMEW 2007
Université du Québec à Montréal
Vice President Exploration, Sayona
Looking back at this amazing opportunity, my fondest memories include the instant camaraderie felt between myself and the other students from all over Canada right from the beginning and the numerous great field visits organized by the S-IMEW. I also really enjoyed interacting with academics and industry professionals so early on in my career. Many thanks to the PDAC and S-IMEW for organizing this high quality workshop for Canadian geoscientists students!
Cassia johnson
Cassia Johnson
S-IMEW 2009
University of Saskatchewan
Policy Advisor - PhD Candidate, Natural Resources Canada
Cassia johnson
Cassia Johnson
S-IMEW 2009
University of Saskatchewan
Policy Advisor - PhD Candidate, Natural Resources Canada

I first learned about artisanal and small-scale mining are S-IMEW, which launched a life long passion for the subject, and is the focus of my PhD 

2013 chelsea bell
Chelsea Bell
S-IMEW 2013
Barrick representative
Senior Geologist, Nevada Gold Mines
2013 chelsea bell
Chelsea Bell
S-IMEW 2013
Barrick representative
Senior Geologist, Nevada Gold Mines
My fondest memory of S-IMEW was seeing the komatiites and discussing the temperatures and conditions that are needed to form these unique deposits. The incredible mine tours opened my eyes to the world of mining and now I have chosen to focus my career on production geology in one of the biggest gold districts in the world!
Chris voisey 2015
Chris Voisey
S-IMEW 2015
Memorial University of Newfoundland
Chris voisey 2015
Chris Voisey
S-IMEW 2015
Memorial University of Newfoundland
S-IMEW was an outstanding opportunity to interact with all facets of the mineral exploration industry, from specialist insights to practical hands-on experience. Being able to network with a group of people who all share a passion for Earth Sciences was so liberating. After all, without the community, we'd all be weirdos rambling about rocks. My fondest memory was cruising around Sudbury in the Anne-Van with a group of strangers who quickly became friends I still keep in contact with today.
Christopher beckett brown
Christopher Beckett-Brown
S-IMEW 2015
Laurentian University
Surficial Geochemist, Ontario Geological Survey - Ministry of Mines
Christopher beckett brown
Christopher Beckett-Brown
S-IMEW 2015
Laurentian University
Surficial Geochemist, Ontario Geological Survey - Ministry of Mines
My fondest memory of S-IMEW was the networking opportunities. Although the in class and hands on activities were exemplary, the networking opportunities truly stood out for me. Throughout the entire S-IMEW experience there were endless opportunities for students to network with career professionals from a vast range of backgrounds. With such a tightly knit mining and geoscience community, networking is ever so important. S-IMEW really provided that push out of my comfort zone which helped develop my networking skills and create some valuable long lasting relationships
DANICA THE GIRL THAT MADE ME FAMOUS IN ONE SHOT2
Danica Pascua
S-IMEW 2011
University of Toronto
3D Modelling Geologist, Agnico Eagle Mines
DANICA THE GIRL THAT MADE ME FAMOUS IN ONE SHOT2
Danica Pascua
S-IMEW 2011
University of Toronto
3D Modelling Geologist, Agnico Eagle Mines
S-IMEW helped me become more confident in myself when networking. I now enjoy meeting new people and don’t shy away from it like before, allowing me to form and expand my network in the industry.
Dan gregory
Daniel Gregory
S-IMEW 2007
University of Toronto
Assistant Professor, Economic Geology, University of Toronto
Dan gregory
Daniel Gregory
S-IMEW 2007
University of Toronto
Assistant Professor, Economic Geology, University of Toronto
During the S-IMEW trip I most enjoyed visiting the different sites to see evidence for the impact model for the Sudbury deposit. I have since used photos from that trip in outreach activities during my time at the University of California, Riverside. It allowed me to get some economic geology into outreach session for the NASA Astrobiology institute, something that would have been otherwise quite difficult to do.
Dante huff
Dante Huff
S-IMEW 2011
McGill University
Manager of Global Project Marketing, EMX Royalty Corp.
Dante huff
Dante Huff
S-IMEW 2011
McGill University
Manager of Global Project Marketing, EMX Royalty Corp.
I cannot recommend the S-IMEW experience highly enough. Although the workshop classes and exercises were effective and convinced me I wanted a career in mineral exploration, the true highlight of S-IMEW for me was spending two glorious, fun-filled weeks with an amazing group of students who would become my industry peers. In this setting, it is impossible not to make friends and lifelong contacts who now live across the country. Another major advantage of S-IMEW is that it allows students at the beginning of their careers to meet influential members of the mining community, a feat difficult to duplicate.
David murray
David Murray
S-IMEW 2010
St Francis Xavier University
Resourceful Geoscience Solutions
David murray
David Murray
S-IMEW 2010
St Francis Xavier University
Resourceful Geoscience Solutions
S-IMEW has had a profound impact on my career and in none of the ways I expected. The friendships forged with my workshop colleagues has been a a true gift professionally. Beginning my career with that strong network of peers already in place lead to professional opportunities I could not have anticipated and am forever grateful for.
2010 derek woodford
Derek Woodford
S-IMEW 2010
Cambrian College
Senior Geological Technologist, Vale
2010 derek woodford
Derek Woodford
S-IMEW 2010
Cambrian College
Senior Geological Technologist, Vale
As a mature student returning to school after two decades proved to be rewarding. My nomination to be part of S-IMEW came as a surprise, which I graciously accepted. The industry experts you meet on this excursion will help your future career. The other winners of the program in 2010 were fantastic and their diversity and receptiveness made the experience a success for all involved.
Dr roisin kyne
Dr. Roisin Kyne
S-IMEW 2008
Lakehead University
Post Doctoral Fellow, Irish Centre for Research in Applied Geoscience (iCRAG), University College Dublin
Dr roisin kyne
Dr. Roisin Kyne
S-IMEW 2008
Lakehead University
Post Doctoral Fellow, Irish Centre for Research in Applied Geoscience (iCRAG), University College Dublin
S-IMEW is an incredible and unique experience I have yet to encounter anywhere else in the world and one that helped solidify my career as a geoscientist. Not only did it afford an incredible networking opportunity, S-IMEW introduced me to aspects of the business and practical side of the industry that I had not been exposed to previously. I also developed a number of fantastic relationships with fellow geoscientists from all over Canada who I run into everywhere in the world. The geology community is small and to have been given an opportunity to meet so many amazing people has been fantastic for me and will no doubt help enhance my career.
Duncan mackay
Duncan MacKay
S-IMEW 2011
Simon Fraser University
VP Exploration, Banyan Gold Corp
Duncan mackay
Duncan MacKay
S-IMEW 2011
Simon Fraser University
VP Exploration, Banyan Gold Corp
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.
Dustin dahn
Dustin Dahn
S-IMEW 2010
University of Victoria
Bedrock Mapping Geologist, New Brunswick Geologic Survey
Dustin dahn
Dustin Dahn
S-IMEW 2010
University of Victoria
Bedrock Mapping Geologist, New Brunswick Geologic Survey
S-IMEW helped me become more confident with applied aspects of geology through field trips, mine tours and mapping exercises. At S-IMEW I was exposed to aspects of geology that I did not learn at university and I really enjoyed discussions and networking opportunities with fellow students from across Canada.
Édouard côté lavoie
Édouard Côté-Lavoie
S-IMEW 2013
Université du Québec à Chicoutimi
M.Sc. Candidate, Université du Québec à Chicoutimi
Édouard côté lavoie
Édouard Côté-Lavoie
S-IMEW 2013
Université du Québec à Chicoutimi
M.Sc. Candidate, Université du Québec à Chicoutimi

I have a full two-weeks of fond memories in my head, but the contacts and friendships I've made at S-IMEW are what's the most important. Nowadays, a career in the mining industry is based on your business contacts, and S-IMEW gave us this opportunity to meet important players in multiple domains of the industry. I knew I wanted to be a geologist, and I now I'm really sure it's the place I want to be! By doing this workshop, PDAC reaffirms it's position as a leader in the mining industry and every past and future S-IMEW'ers are grateful for this opportunity.

Erin adlakha
Erin Adlakha
S-IMEW 2012
St. Mary's University
Assistant Professor, Saint Mary's University
Erin adlakha
Erin Adlakha
S-IMEW 2012
St. Mary's University
Assistant Professor, Saint Mary's University
My fondest memory of S-IMEW was the opening keynote speaker- Eira Thomas. It was very inspiring to hear from such a successful and respected woman in our industry. Her talk was so eloquent and engaging, you could have heard a pin drop in the room: she had everyone's attention.
Ethan Amyotte
Ethan Amyotte
S-IMEW 2018
University of Manitoba
District Geologist, Ontario Geological Survey
Ethan Amyotte
Ethan Amyotte
S-IMEW 2018
University of Manitoba
District Geologist, Ontario Geological Survey

Meeting and making like-minded friends from across the country grew my prespective 

Forest pimm 2018
Forest Pimm
S-IMEW 2018
University of Victoria
Environmental Scientist, SLR Consulting (Canada) Ltd.
Forest pimm 2018
Forest Pimm
S-IMEW 2018
University of Victoria
Environmental Scientist, SLR Consulting (Canada) Ltd.
I remember S-IMEW being different from what I expected - in a good way. I anticipated learning only about what mining and exploration geologists would encounter in their careers, but instead I was shown how the mining industry incorporates many other streams of science and engineering. I learned I could be a practicing geologist, work in the industry, and not work at a mine. This was a key lesson leading me to where I am now working on contaminated sites across BC and the Yukon as an environmental scientist. Thank you S-IMEW for helping me find my dream job!
Francisco amaya 2019
Francisco Amaya
S-IMEW 2019
Brock University
Fluvial Geomorphologist In Training, AECOM
Francisco amaya 2019
Francisco Amaya
S-IMEW 2019
Brock University
Fluvial Geomorphologist In Training, AECOM
Made long lasting connections with other young professionals. S-IMEW also taught me the importance of a responsible mining industry.
 


 

Frank joris
Frank Joris
S-IMEW 2012
Western University
Micro-Seismic Monitoring Station Installation Technician
Frank joris
Frank Joris
S-IMEW 2012
Western University
Micro-Seismic Monitoring Station Installation Technician
My fondest memory of S-IMEW is sitting at a table talking about geophysics with one of the company reps, who is now a friend of mine. We had two different people come to sit down and talk with us, find out what we were talking about and leave.