Tuning-in and Turning-on to a Career in Mining
Aurora College – Yellowknife Campus, in partnership with the Northwest Territories Mine Training Society and industry partners, has developed a 6 – week program on Underground Mining for delivery in Northern communities.
The goal of the program is to inform and connect Northern residents to the career potential at existing and future mining operations throughout the Northwest Territories. The program content includes an introduction to the mine life cycle, basic underground mining methods, the use of technology in training via desktop simulators for underground mining equipment, safety in the workplace, and essential skills training (Ready To Work North) and assessment.
Students completing the short program may then choose to continue into a long (12-16 week) program to be offered at the Yellowknife Campus. This program expands upon the initial introduction and includes modules on NWT geology, environmental studies, underground mining processes and underground mining equipment operation using the larger enclosed cab simulator for a variety of equipment being used at northern mining operations.
Success of both programs will depend upon a variety of factors, many of which are outside of the control of the developers of the training modules. These will be investigated throughout the presentation.
Connecting northern employers with northern employees is a major concern. It is hoped that through the development and implementation of a program such as this, that the connection can be made and sustained allowing continued employment for the life of northern mining operations.
Keywords:
Northern Communities, Mine Life Cycle, Mine safety, Employment Potential, Training Simulators
