Mineral Exploration

W I N T E R 2 0 1 5 19 Glen Wonders, AME BC vice-presi- dent of technical and government affairs, is a good example of professional flexibility and the lifelong learning that goes with it. "I started out in forestry with skill sets in corporate social responsibility and Aboriginal relations," Wonders says. "From there I migrated to subsurface resources, first oil and gas and then min- erals. Along the way I completed a master of business administration at Royal Roads University and took some short-term courses in business, health and safety, and corporate social responsibility." Wonders says lifelong learning is a widely held expectation now. "The industry is very dynamic. More people, with different skill sets – teams of people – are needed to advance projects now. As a result, you need to be prepared to invest in yourself, to be flexible and to look for opportunities to improve yourself." Jill Tsolinas, executive director of the BC Centre of Training Excellence in Mining ( CTEM), has three tips for lifelong learning. "First, identify the job you want, and understand the training you need for it," Tsolinas says. "Contact CTEM and get a copy of the BC Career Pathways Guidebook: Mining Careers for information." Tsolinas also suggests approaching con- sulting industry associations, the Industry Training Authority and WorkBC. "I would also recommend talking to somebody with the job you want or a company you want to work for, to get advice on job requirements and relevant training," she says. Tsolinas says there are many life- long learning programs in British Columbia to support individuals who are upgrading skills or transitioning jobs. The Certificate in Mining Studies is a program offered jointly by UBC and InfoMine. Regional institutions with a strong focus on local communities and First Nations also offer opportu- nities for upgrading and skills train- ing. Northwest Community College's School of Exploration & Mining and the College of the Rockies both have a strong focus on entry-level jobs. The College of New Caledonia focuses on individuals who want to update their skills. And Thompson Rivers University offers courses in trades training. (See the Fall 2015 issue of Mineral Exploration for a comprehensive listing.) ■ and associations. The organization is actively seeking partners, sponsors and volunteers. Tsolinas is, naturally, an enthusiastic propo- nent of lifelong learning, as well as a good exam- ple. Her post-secondary education consists of a bachelor of arts in geography with a concentra- tion in sociology, as well as certificates in mining studies and leadership. "I also anticipate taking additional training and courses as I learn more about our stakeholders in CTEM," Tsolinas says. Matt Turner, chief executive officer and director of Rockhaven Resources Ltd. in Vancouver, is the ultimate example of a lifelong learner. "I have been following junior companies since I was 12 years of age," Turner says. "My father, uncle and grandfather were all geolo- gists, so I spent a lot of time in exploration camps when I was growing up. It's in my blood." Turner says much lifelong learning takes place on the job. "There's no substitute for boots on the ground," he says. "I learn something new on every project, because each project has its own unique challenges, from geology and min- eralization to logistics and safety. The biggest thing for me is to listen to everyone on the proj- ect site, to learn and grow as a geologist, project manager and company executive." ■ DISCOVERING VALUE THROUGH SUCCESSFUL PARTNERSHIPS For more information, please contact our Western Canada exploration office at: 543 Granville Street, Suite 400 Vancouver, BC V6C 1X8 tel: 604.608.2557 fax: 604.608.2559 TSX/NYSE: AEM agnicoeagle.com

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