Engineering and Mining Journal - Whether the market is copper, gold, nickel, iron ore, lead/zinc, PGM, diamonds or other commodities, E&MJ takes the lead in projecting trends, following development and reporting on the most efficient operating pr
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PDAC ROUNDUP 2013 Vendors exhibit tools and services for prospectors at the PDAC Trade Show. in the Dawson Range of the Yukon's White Gold district. "We are using a targeted geoscience initiative to provide the best geophysical data to point us to deeper mineral deposits critical to ensuring the industry's long-term prosperity," Oliver said. On a proportional basis, mining employs more aboriginal Canadians than any other sector in its economy. The government is investing $690 million for training and education for aboriginal Canadians to help meet the growing demand for skilled labor for mining and other industries. The mining industry is a global business and it carries with it a responsibility and commitment to engage constructively with local communities Oliver said. "Developing new mines in any country can take years and a massive investment in capital," he said. "In addition to dealing with harsh frontiers and non-existent infrastructure, they have to contend with untested laws and uncertain governments. We can address these challenges by working with local communities. As companies manage these risks, they are expected to operate responsibly. Our government's strong commitment to CSR is well recognized." Mining has the incredible power to be both a transformative economic force and driver for positive social change, Oliver explained. "Canadian mining companies 50 E&MJ; • APRIL 2013 are partnering with regional governments to build much needed infrastructure which is allowing a quality of life never seen before in some regions," Oliver said. "This conference showcases Canada's best assets from exploration geologists in remote areas, equipment suppliers in small towns, to the financiers and stock exchanges in big city centers, there is a reason why Canada's mining sector is a model for the world and a magnet for investment." The Canadian mining industry and its government are moving forward together, he added. 'War for Talent' at PDAC Stronger than Ever Despite investors' lack of appetite for exploration and the mining sector facing tougher times ahead, Faststream Recruitment returned from the PDAC conference in Toronto with one large observation—the war for talent in mining is stronger than ever. The company took on an unprecedented level of vacancies during the conference showing that there's no shortage of demand for the best people. "The majority of demand for staff lies in employees who have experience at senior to principal level in designing mines and mineral processing plants," said Mark Charman, Faststream Group CEO. "Companies are looking to operate their existing mines more efficiently and are focused on getting a better return on value. It's people who are experienced in streamlining operations and can actively help organizations make a higher return without further investment that are in fierce demand." Faststream spoke to many employers at PDAC and it is the large EPCMs and mid-tier mining companies who are looking to invest in talent the most. "The perception that times are tough is only half of the story," Charman said. "While junior mining companies are struggling to secure investment and therefore not looking for additional workforce, the larger organizations have no shortage of jobs to fill." Not surprisingly, anyone involved in exploration is feeling the pinch on vacancies and many talented geologists were looking for work. "We met with plenty of geologists who were at PDAC with their resumes actively looking for work. Back in 2010-2011 these same candidates would have had their choice of jobs, had they been on the market for new employment then, however, once again it has been a case of 'first hired - first fired' for many geologists who have become victim of the hesitation in investment," he added. Canada may need to look further afield for jobseekers as it faces a large skill shortage. "We spoke to many employers looking to recruit in Canada who are continuing to struggle in securing the people they need locally," Charman said. "The reality is that they will need to look at the expat marketplace and potentially candidates from the Commonwealth. However, as is the case with employees moving from one part of the world to another, the remuneration packages that will need to be offered will put an upward pressure on salary levels." Faststream picked up more than 100 jobs while at PDAC, and said metallurgists, process engineers and mining engineers were the most commonly discussed vacancies with hiring managers. PDAC unveiled a new logo this year. www.e-mj.com