Is mining today Completely different to mining in the past?
Mining today has seen significant changes from mining in the past. The old days of focusing solely on production with little regard for worker safety resulted in fatalities and significant injuries. Mining in most countries in today’s world has seen an increased focus on worker safety and quality of the workplace. While it is still important to achieve production and ensure cost efficient operations, it is also important to ensure our workers make it home to their families.
Over the last two or three decades, we have seen developments of new scientific methods — geophysics, satellites, mapping systems, mechanical and tele remote excavation methods — for locating and extracting metals from the ground. These innovations also represent a huge improvement in terms of health and safety — a sine qua non for operating in today’s world.
What drew you to the mining industry and what are your personal objectives as the head of DMC? Where in the world does DMC have the greatest operational presence and footprint?
For me, one of the main attractions of the mining construction service has been that it is far more dynamic than the mining operating service, in the sense that the decisions one makes as the head of operations require a quick assessment time and almost always have an immediate turnaround.
Our company’s presence is strongest in Chile and in Ontario, Canada, where it was founded. In 2019, we completed one of our most noteworthy developments in Saskatchewan: a mechanized shaft sinking project. This pioneering technology has offered a machine-run alternative to the classic method of mining via drill and blast excavation.
How soon do you believe that the mining industry will achieve electrification and more sustainable forms of engineering equipment?
Battery-driven machinery for mineral extraction already exists and provides many advantages though it comes with a series of technical obstacles. While it removes the significant consumption of fuel and emissions, mines require robust electrical infrastructure in place to support charging of the units.
The current challenge is to design smaller, more compact battery packs that can safely and efficiently provide electricity to our mining technology. Further refinement of BEV technology will provide for more cost-efficient solutions for mine owners so that contractors like DMC can support them in meeting their ESG commitments.
Has the energy transition caused a rise in demand in any metals? Are there any metals that could benefit the transition?
With the current energy transition, we have seen an increase in demand for copper, nickel, and lithium. DMC works closely with clients in various regions to support the development and extraction of these minerals to support a changing electrified world.
In addition to the minerals to support the energy transition I see great market potential for phosphorus, since, despite being a limited resource, it can be exploited for use in various fertilizer components. While understanding we are in a world of change, we need to be upfront and honest about how most countries currently operate, being that investment in oil and gas cannot be negated. It remains a major source of energy and has been significantly defunded in light of climate change and supply disruptions caused by the war in Ukraine.
What are your goals for DMC, and do you have plans to expand your operations globally beyond Canada?
DMC is proud to maintain a strong presence in Ontario and in the Sudbury region. Our goal is to grow this presence in Canada to deliver safe quality work for new clients and engaging and supporting local communities. These operations support the foundation of DMC to allow us to continue to expand internationally. We are injecting new life and skilled management teams into our US and Mexican operations, expanding our presence in Chile, as well as working on a new project in Poland.
