Northern Ontario Mining Showcase
Speaker Series
Sunday, March 2, 2025
Andrew PalangioWipWare
12:30pm - 12:45pm
Tracking Blast Results with WipWare in Portugal
Presenting case studies from an ongoing quarry project in Portugal where WipWare and their partners use drones, WipFrag and other tools to baseline and track changes in blast results on the journey towards optimized blasting.
Penny BelluzTeleco
1:00pm - 1:15pm
Revolutionizing Workplace Safety in Mining through AI-Driven Cameras and Analytics
Discover real-world use cases where AI solutions have mitigated dangers, reduced incidents, and optimized safety workflows, providing cost savings and operational efficiency for mining companies.
Kevin BobechkoMahsa Noori
River Birch Global Water Inc.
1:15pm - 1:30pm
Conquering Contaminants: Innovative Treatment for Leachate and Runoff
This presentation will focus on innovative treatment methods for leachate and runoff generated by mining operations, addressing the challenges of contaminant management in these environments. We will explore advanced technologies and strategies for effectively treating heavy metals, toxic chemicals, and other pollutants to mitigate their environmental impact.
Panel + Announcement
Strengthening Ontario's Mining Industry: Addressing Challenges
and Advancing Opportunities
1:30pm - 2:30pm
Moderator
Daniel Tisch (OCC)
Panelists
Andre Leite (Agnico Eagle Mines)
Priya Tandon (Ontario Mining Association)
Marla Tremblay (MineConnect)
The Ontario Chamber of Commerce (OCC) is launching its new mining initiative, Ontario’s Mining Future 2030, aimed at ensuring the province remains a global leader in mining, critical minerals, and the clean economy. Led by co-chairs from MineConnect and Agnico Eagle, with support from key partners like the Ontario Mining Association, this initiative brings industry leaders together to tackle major challenges, including workforce development, regulatory efficiency, and sustainability. Panelists will discuss how this new initiative aims to support and enhance the future of mining in Ontario.
The Honourable Patty Hajdu, Minister of Indigenous Services and Minister responsible for FedNor
Northern Ontario Mining Showcase Official Opening
3:00pm - 4:00pm
Opportunity for Minister Hajdu and the Northern Ontario caucus to officially open the Northern Ontario Mining Showcase at PDAC 2025.
Monday, March 3, 2025
Clint GoreCanadian Diamond Drilling Association
10:15am - 10:45am
Strength Beyond the Surface: Prioritizing Mental Health in High-Stakes Environments (Bring it to the Surface)
The Bring it to the Surface campaign highlights the importance of openly addressing mental health struggles. Clint Gore’s journey, from despair to recovery, embodies resilience and hope, showing how four words “not fit for duty” can change a life.
Cambrian College Centre for Smart Mining
Is Mining Ready for Data Analytics and AI?
10:45am - 11:45am
Moderator
Stephen Gravel (Cambrian College)
Panelists
Kirk Petroski (SYMX.AI)
Jessica Andrews (GeologicAI)
Gus Minor (Sofvie Inc.)
The potential benefits of advanced data analytics and AI bring to the mining sector have been talked about for some time. Widespread adoption, however, has not yet occurred. This panel will discuss what barriers exist to adopting AI enabled platforms, what practical examples of deployments we can point to and seek to answer the question: is mining truly ready for AI?
Kevin OsheaArizona Commerce
11:45am - 12:30pm
Overview of the Arizona Mining Environment
This presentation will explore the growing opportunities for mine supply and service companies in Arizona, one of the most mineral-rich states in the U.S. As demand for critical minerals such as copper, gold, and lithium increases, Arizona's mining sector is poised for substantial growth.
Kayla NestlerLarah Bigras
Jason Bisschops
Patrick Group
12:30pm - 1:00pm
Building a Resilient Workforce in Northern Ontario
Patrick Group fosters a resilient workforce by aligning with Ontario’s Critical Minerals Talent Strategy, partnering with Cambrian College for hands-on training, and promoting diversity to attract underrepresented groups. Advanced scheduling optimizes remote site logistics, while internal recruitment, mentorship, and professional development to boost retention and drive long-term growth.
Gerry DignardCSCA
1:00pm - 1:15pm
Modernize Wastewater Treatment Strategies in Mining
The presentation will cover recent Canadian Shield mining projects, addressing challenges like wastewater treatment in remote work camps, managing large-scale water discharge in open-pit mines, and treating process water, along with the tools used to tackle these issues.
Kevin PattisonNATT Group
1:15pm - 1:30pm
Confined Space and Industrial Safety
Kevin Pattison, President and CEO of Natt Group shares information about Confined Space rescue and industrial safety throughout the North, and Ontario-wide. He will touch on a variety of different safety aspects involving various industries including mining and construction.
Anishnawbe Business Professional Association
Mining with Purpose: Integrating ESG, Sustainability, and Indigenous Reconciliation
1:45pm - 2:45pm
Moderator
Jason Rasevych (Waawoono Consultancy)
Panelists
Sarah Morris Lang (BMO Global Asset Management)
Jennifer Szabo (ESG Human Rights Management)
Zahir Jina (Wyloo Metals)
Sarah Maqsood (University of Toronto)
Nicole Nicholas (Tech Resources Ltd)
This panel discussion explores the critical intersection of Environmental, Social, and Governance (ESG) principles, sustainability, and Indigenous reconciliation in the mining industry. Expert panelists will share insights on best practices, innovative approaches, and key challenges in building meaningful partnerships with Indigenous communities, advancing economic reconciliation, and ensuring the long-term sustainability of mining projects.
Bill BelangerJL Richards
3:00pm - 3:15pm
Supplier Engagement with Engineering Firms
This presentation will explore how early collaboration between suppliers and engineers can streamline project phases, leading to more efficient and precise construction outcomes.
Ash AgarwalSYMX.AI
3:15pm - 3:30pm
Powering Up Equipment Analytics with Connectivity and AI
This presentation explores how AI-powered predictive analytics and real-time connectivity improve equipment reliability and performance. Key topics include reducing unplanned downtime, optimizing maintenance strategies, and integrating AI-driven insights into mining operations.
Chamirai Charles NyabezeCentre for Excellence in Mining Innovation (CEMI)
3:30pm - 3:45pm
Special Announcement from CEMI
Advancing Made-in-Canada Emerging Technologies into the National and Global Mining Industry through the Mining Innovation Commercialization Accelerator (MICA) Network.
Tuesday, March 4, 2025
MineConnect
Accessing New International Markets - Part One
10:30am - 12:00pm
Moderator
Ryan McEchearn (MSTA)
Panelists
Justin Elavathil (Mongolia)
Harris Naeem (Pakistan)
Ma. Corazon Halili-Dichosa (Phillippines)
Edouard Huot (Kazhakstan)
Andre Henry (Africa)
This panel presentation will focus on the emerging opportunities in specific international markets. Industry experts will highlight key upcoming projects, trade developments, and market shifts across various regions. Whether targeting growth in emerging economies or tapping into developed markets with new demands, this session will provide valuable strategies for navigating the complexities of international expansion in real-time.
Coté Gold (IAMGOLD) | The Bucket Shop | Mattagami First Nation
Special Announcement
12:00pm - 12:15pm
A special celebration of partnerships between Coté Gold (IAMGOLD), The Bucket Shop, and Mattagami First Nation.
Recruitment Resources
Empowering Employers: Navigating Programs and
Resources for Effective Recruitment
12:15pm - 1:15pm
Moderator
Jeff Lafortune (College Boreal)
Panelists
Courney Ginson (Levert)Stephanie Cotnoir (Recruit North)Morgan Murphy (OMA's This is Mine Life)Heather Hall (University of Waterloo)Carolyn Rasiuk (EMC)
This panel presentation explores the variety of programs and resources available to employers aiming to enhance their recruitment efforts. Industry experts will provide insights into programs and tools designed to help employers attract top talent. Whether you're a small business or a large corporation, this session will help you navigate the support available to meet your recruitment goals.
Maria StoryStory Environmental
1:15pm - 1:30pm
Mobile Industrial Sewage Works Environmental Compliance Approval and How it Can Benefit Mining Companies
Story Environmental’s mobile ISW ECA treats up to 10,000 litres per minute of wastewater, slurries, or tailings across Ontario, saving time on critical mining projects by bypassing lengthy ministry approval processes.
Don KingKovatera
1:30pm - 1:45pm
Innovation in Battery Electric Utility Vehicles
As underground mining adopts battery electric vehicles, Kovatera is integrating unique technologies into its BEV portfolio. This presentation will highlight key innovations and their value to the industry.
MineConnect
Accessing New International Markets Part Two - In Market Support to De-risk International Diversification
2:00pm - 3:00pm
Moderator
Jenni Myllynen (FedNor)
Panelists
Blair Bobyck (Trade Commissioner Service)
Debra McKinnon (EDC)
Cindy Chesney (Maestro Digital Mine)
Shan Shanmugarajah (Royal Bank of Canada)
This panel presentation will dive into the essential in-market supports and resources available to help businesses mitigate the risks of expanding into international markets. Industry experts and trade specialists will highlight various tools, from market entry programs and local partnerships to export insurance, financing options, and regulatory guidance. Attendees will learn how to leverage government and private sector resources to navigate complex markets, minimize financial exposure, and build local networks that foster sustainable growth abroad.
Sierra MercerJohn George
Ontario Centre for Innovation + Ontario Vehicle Innovation Network
3:00pm - 3:30pm
Shaping the Future of Industry in Ontario: An Introduction to OCI's Critical Industrial Technologies Initiative
Discover how the Ontario Centre of Innovation’s Critical Industrial Technologies (CIT) initiative is empowering Ontario SMEs in mining. This session explores funding, resources, and support for adopting advanced technologies like AI, robotics, and cybersecurity to drive innovation, sustainability, and resilience.
Northern Ontario Mining Showcase
Women of PDAC - Photo Opportunity
3:30pm - 4:00pm
Location
NOMS Pavilion
Join us at the NOMS pavilion for a Women of PDAC photo opportunity, located next to the A-frame.
Wednesday, March 5, 2025
VALE Base Metals
People Networks Fueling Engagement in the Mining Industry
9:30am - 10:30am
Moderator
Theresa Nyabeze (VALE Base Metals)
Panelists
Dorena Quinn (IAMGOLD)
Vincent Tulk (VALE Base Metals)
Shirley Neault (Environment and Systems)
Vivian Yoanidis (Hydro One)
In the dynamic landscape of the global mining industry, the role of people networks has become increasingly pivotal in driving engagement and achieving business success. This panel brings together leaders from mining companies and networking organizations to explore the intricate web of relationships and interactions that underpin effective engagement strategies. The discussion will delve into the mechanisms by which people networks foster collaboration, innovation, and resilience within their companies and the industry. Panelists will share insights on leading practices that maximize engagement, from leveraging digital platforms to fostering inclusive workplace cultures. Attendees will gain an understanding of how robust people networks can enhance operational efficiency, drive sustainable practices, and ultimately contribute to superior business outcomes.
