The theme of Roundup 2015 is “intelligent exploration,” and this issue of Mineral Exploration touches on one element that is critical to explorers: technology.
I would first like to express AME BC’s sincere support to all of the people affected by the Mount Polley tailings dam incident on August 4. This is a time for stewardship and strong leadership as we take steps to work together and learn from this very rare incident, making B.C.’s mineral exploration and development sector stronger as a result. As fall approaches, AME BC is in the midst of preparations for Mineral Exploration Roundup 2015, to be held at a new venue – under the Canada Place sails at the Vancouver Convention Centre East. Our 32nd annual conference, from January 26 to 29, 2015, will feature excellent opportunities to network and learn, not to mention to hear from our keynote speakers including Clive Johnson from B2Gold, Randy Smallwood from Silver Wheaton, Stephen McIntosh from Rio Tinto, Mike Ashar from Teck and Chuck Jeannes from Goldcorp.
AME BC’s 103rd annual general meeting takes place during Roundup and, importantly, this is when newly elected directors are appointed to the AME BC board of directors. I encourage you to think of colleagues who could contribute strategic guidance to the Association, and to consider nominating them as a candidate for a position on AME BC’s board. All members will receive a call for nominations in the fall. The election – to be held in advance of the AGM – will mark the third year of electronic voting. Your participation is greatly appreciated. The theme of Roundup 2015 is “intelligent exploration,” and this issue of Mineral Exploration touches on one element that is critical to explorers: technology. Although we take a brief look at how technology has shaped our industry in the past, and might shape it in the future, the focus of most of the articles in this issue is on current innovations, including advances in drilling technology, 3D modelling and portable analytics. And as AME BC’s members’ work is more intensely scrutinized through social media, Monica Moretto of AME BC’s Corporate Social Responsibility Committee takes a look at how social media is increasingly part of the CSR toolbox. Finally, our profile features John Thompson, and a look at how his professional career has shaped his views on the role of technology in mineral exploration and development.
This past summer, I was pleased to announce the appointment of Glen Wonders as AME BC’s vice-president, technical and government affairs. Glen will be responsible for key AME BC member issues related to land access and use, permitting, Aboriginal engagement, economic incentives, and health and safety. In order to achieve a successful and responsible mineral exploration and development industry based in British Columbia, a key element of Glen’s work will be to further develop and strengthen relationships with AME BC’s volunteer committees, industry and business partner organizations, environmental groups, Aboriginal communities and government leaders.
Before joining the team at AME BC, Glen held the positions of general manager–mining and division manager for Allnorth Consultants Limited, based out of Prince George. Previously, Glen held the role of vice president, corporate affairs and sustainability, with Terrane Metals Corporation, where he focused on achieving regulatory approvals for the Mount Milligan gold and copper mine project, including First Nations consultation and agreements, and managed community and government affairs. As well, Glen has extensive government experience and served as director of British Columbia coal resources with the Ministry of Energy, Mines and Petroleum Resources. Glen has been a longtime committee volunteer and member of AME BC, and is active with several regional exploration groups in B.C. He is currently a director with the Prince George Exploration Group in addition to being a director of the Canadian Institute of Mining, North Central BC Branch. He is also a standing board member of the Duz Cho Group of Companies (wholly owned by the McLeod Lake Indian Band). Glen holds a master’s of business administration from Royal Roads University and a bachelor of science from the University of Alberta.
On behalf of the staff and board of AME BC , I thank the many hundreds of dedicated volunteers of AME BC, and wish all our members a successful fall season and a safe day, every day, wherever this message finds you!