Innovation Fall 2026

Registrant survey results | Public survey results | Speaker spotlight

INNOVATION ENGINEERS AND GEOSCIENTISTS BRITISH COLUMBIA FALL 2026

Mining emerging techniques for CRITICAL MINERALS

automation in welding Finding a spark:

Program streamlines path to registration

PM40065271

Innovation Fall 2026

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DOCTOR OF ENGINEERING — LEAP

Canada's First Industry-Embedded Doctor of Engineering

Meet the UVic Doctor of Engineering Team at the EGBC Annual Conference in Victoria, Oct. 14-16

BUILT FOR WORKING PROFESSIONALS The University of Victoria's Doctor of Engineering (Leadership in Engineering Applications and Practice, LEAP) helps organizations address complex technical challenges through doctoral-level applied research led by experienced professionals from within their own workforce. Designed for working professionals, the program allows participants to remain employed while integrating their research directly into their day-to-day responsibilities. and modernizing infrastructure to advancing cybersecurity and developing next-generation technologies, they build research expertise and technical leadership while generating measurable organizational value. Build research expertise and technical leadership while generating measurable organizational value. Supported by UVic faculty and the university's broader research ecosystem, participants lead applied research projects that deliver practical, evidence-based solutions to strategic organizational priorities. From integrating AI Your Organization Brings the Challenge. We Bring the Research Expertise. Every Doctor of Engineering partnership begins with a strategic challenge. Working together, we develop a research project tailored to your organization's goals and provide support from initial planning through project execution and implementation. The result is meaningful organizational impact, increased internal research and innovation capacity, and a highly skilled technical leader who earns a Doctor of Engineering degree while continuing to contribute to your organization. Every Partnership Begins with a Conversation. Whether you're an experienced technical professional looking to expand your impact or an organization seeking solutions to complex technical challenges, we'd welcome the opportunity to connect.

Let's explore what's possible together. uvic.ca/deng leap_deng@uvic.ca

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CONTENTS

COMMENT 4 Viewpoint NEWS 5 Annual fee increase 6 Board report 7 Regulatory Learning Module 8 BCSEG strategic plan 8 PST on services 9 AGM & Conference 32 Registrant survey results 34 Public survey results 42 Foundation update FEATURES 12 Critical minerals 24 Automation in welding 36 AEP paves the way DEPARTMENTS 10 Guidelines and advisories 11 Professional Practice 22 CE: Speaker spotlight 40 Volunteer spotlight 44 Discipline and enforcement 45 Display advertisers’ index

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Mining critical minerals The boom in critical mineral demand presents a golden opportunity for BC to tap emerging techniques to extract minerals more effectively. 24

Fusing automation in welding Automation is a natural fit for the complexities in the welding field.

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36 Program sets a path

The Accredited Employer Program helps prospective registrants chart their course.

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ON THE COVER

Digital Innovation Interested in receiving Innovation digitally instead of by mail? You can change your preferences in your online account in your Communication Preferences. View the digital version by scanning the QR code or by going to egbc.ca/Innovation.

Critical minerals mined in BC, such as copper, are in demand. P hoto : bJP7 IMageS /S hutterStock .

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V I EWPO INT

FALL 2026 | VOLUME 30 nUMBER 3 INNOVATION

ENGINEERS AND GEOSCIENTISTS BRITISH COLUMBIA Suite 200 - 4010 Regent Street, Burnaby, BC Canada V5C 6N2 Tel: 604.430.8035 | Toll free: 1.888.430.8035

Looking back and forward after a productive year I look back on this past year with appreciation for the initiatives that the Board advanced, and the progress made with our diverse and deeply experienced team.

Email: info@egbc.ca | Web: egbc.ca

BOARD 2025/2026 CHAIR: KAREn LIng, P.Eng. VICE CHAIR: DR. JEnS WEBER, P.Eng. IMMEDIATE PAST CHAIR: MARK PORTER, P.Eng., STRUCT.Eng., FEC BOARD MEMBERS BILL CHAn, CPA, CGA, MBA, ICD.D; VEROnICA KnOTT, P.Eng.; MICHELLE MAHOVLICH, P.Eng., P.GEO., FCSSE; CATHY MCInTYRE, MBA, C.DIR; MATTHEW SALMOn, P.Eng.;

From staff support to executive leadership, the organization worked closely with the Board to focus on advancing government engagement, reviewing registration, and anticipating future challenges. I had the honour of working with a strong and committed Board with expertise across our professions, while providing oversight on strategic direction and risk mitigation. We gained insights during a productive year with strong representation from past Board leadership. Focusing on priorities identified in past years, we made significant strides towards engagement with the provincial government, with input and impact on eventual decisions. The successful growth of the relationship opened the door for future collaboration. We worked towards strategic direction for the coming years, as regulatory landscapes and economic conditions continue to transition. Engineers and Geoscientists BC also reviewed the organization's engagement with registrants and the public, with outreach through an updated newsletter and feedback surveys. We continue to better understand the significance of other organizations that are important to registrants, while separate from our regulatory functions. The Engineering and Geoscience Education Foundation BC (EGEFBC) promotes education in our professions through meaningful financial awards to deserving recipients starting their engineering education. The BC Society of Engineering and Geoscience's (BCSEG's) drive for new members is underway, providing access to training for continuing education, and playing an important role as an advocacy body providing benefits to members. Engineers and Geoscientists BC's regulatory mandate and priorities are clear on protecting the safety of the public by regulating the profession. Related priorities such as advocacy, building community through membership branches, and seeking opportunities for employment in our province are available through outside organizations. The engineering and geoscience community has access to a diverse set of organizations that serve multiple purposes beyond Engineers and Geoscientists BC 's primary role. I encourage everyone to consider how these related but distinct organizations can advance the professions through meaningful participation not limited by a sole regulatory mandate. Karen Ling, P.Eng.

T.J. SCHMALTZ, JD, FCPHR, SHRM-SCP, ICD.D; MALCOLM SHIELD, P.Eng.; COLETTE TRUDEAU, MA; DR. GORDOn ZHOU, P.Eng.

EXECUTIVE TEAM HEIDI YAng, P.Eng., FEC, FGC (HOn.), CHIEF EXECUTIVE OFFICER JEnnIFER CHO, CPA, CGA, CHIEF FInAnCIAL AnD ADMInISTRATIVE OFFICER ALISOn DAnTAS, MA, CEC, C.DIR, CHIEF OPERATIng OFFICER JASOn Ong, CHIEF REgULATORY OFFICER & REgISTRAR

MANAGING EDITOR SHELLEY NICHOLL

EDITORIAL ADVISORY GROUP RYAn BIRD, P.Eng.; IAn RODRIgUEZ, EIT; RAYA SMERTInA, P.Eng.; AMAn TAnVIR, P.Eng.; STEFAnO VITUCCI, P.Eng. Innovation is published quarterly by Engineers and Geoscientists BC. As the official publication of the organization, Innovation is circulated to all registrants of Engineers and Geoscientists BC as well as architects, contractors and industry executives. The views expressed in any article do not necessarily represent the views or opinions of the Board or Engineers and Geoscientists BC.

Printed in Canada by Mitchell Press Ltd. on recycled paper.

ADVERTISING SALES

Sales Representative: Wing-Yee Kwong Tel: 604.681.1811 Email: advertising@egbc.ca For information see: egbc.ca/About/Publications/Innovation/How-to-Advertise

CONTENT PROPOSALS Innovation does not accept unsolicited articles or photos, but we do welcome article proposals and ideas. Proposals should be of interest and relevant to our readers and recognize the regulatory role of Engineers and Geoscientists BC in ensuring public safety and environmental protection. They should not be a "sales pitch" for a company or organization. Send suggestions to: innovation@egbc.ca . LETTERS All submitted letters are subject to editing for length, clarity and accuracy. We reserve the right to reject unsuitable letters and we do not publish open letters to third parties . REPRINTS & COPIES All material is copyright. For reprint permission or extra copies, contact: innovation@egbc.ca. PRINT & DIGITAL EDITIONS All registrants with Engineers and Geoscientists BC receive Innovation in print or digital form. Registrants can choose how they prefer to receive Innovation by updating their communication preferences for Innovation in their accounts at egbc.ca/account .

Board Chair info@egbc.ca

ISSN 1206-3622 Publications Mail Agreement No 40065271. Registration No 09799. Return undeliverable Canadian addresses to: Innovation , Suite 200 - 4010 Regent Street, Burnaby, BC V5C 6N2.

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REGULATORY NEWS

Registrant and firm fees set to increase in 2027

At its May 27 meeting, the Engineers and Geoscientists BC Board approved the organization’s 2026-2027 (FY2027) budget, which includes fee increases across several categories. These changes allow the organization to provide the required oversight to protect the public, address increased pressure on regulatory programs, and improve service levels to support registrants. Registrants will see a $20 increase and trainees will see a $10 increase for annual registration fees, both effective January 1, 2027. This will bring registration fees to $555 for practising registrants and $296 for EITs and GITs. Firms will see a 20 percent increase take effect for the 2027-2028 renewal cycle (beginning in April 2027) – the first fee increase since the introduction of this requirement in 2021. Fees for sole practitioners will remain unchanged at $250. “While we understand the impact fee increases have on registrants, this funding is critical for Engineers and Geoscientists BC to continue delivering its regulatory mandate and to meet external demands,” said Engineers and Geoscientists BC CEO Heidi Yang, P.Eng. “This budget positions the organization to reduce processing times for applicants and improve service delivery for registrants and the public, all while remaining in a fiscally strong position.” Regulatory costs The introduction of the Professional Governance Ac t ( PGA ) in 2021 required Engineers and Geoscientists BC to take on additional regulatory responsibilities, including regulating firms and enhancing audits, practice reviews, and continuing education programs. Over time, demand on these and other key regulatory programs has also increased – especially complaint processing and investigation, application reviews, and exam administration. Total applications for registration climbed from roughly 5,000 in 2020-2021 to more than 7,000 in 2024-2025, alongside significant increases to complaints and enforcement files.

2027 FEE CHANGES

Fee

Current

New

$555

Practising registrants

$535

$296

Trainees

$286

$139

Non-practising registrants

$134

(based on formula)

+20%

Firms

Firms: sole practioner (unchanged)

$250

$250

The number of enforcement files opened for unauthorized practice and misuse of title has grown fourfold from just over 100 cases to more than 400 between 2020 and 2025, while the number of investigations initiated annually grew from 62 to 119 in the same period. Along with the fee increases, Engineers and Geoscientists BC is taking on a budgeted deficit of $370,000, which will be filled from surpluses from prior years and the organization’s general operating fund. The Board also considered budget options that had no fee increases (leading to a deficit of nearly $2 million) and a $25 fee increase for professional registrants For the first time since 2019, applicant fees and fees for transferring registration from another jurisdiction increased, by $50 to $300, effective July 1, 2026. In addition, for applicants who need to take the Professional Practice Online Seminar (PPOS) and Professional Practice Exam (PPE) fees increased by $50 and $7, respectively, also on July 1. (leading to a deficit of $283,000). Applicant fee increases

Current fees: individuals

Current fees: firms

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BOARD NEWS

BOARD MEETING HIGHLIGHTS: June 19

Engineers and Geoscientists BC’s Board of elected registrants and public representatives meets throughout the year. The following are the highlights of its June 19, 2026, meeting.

Board approves organizational regulatory principles The Board approved Engineers and Geoscientists BC’s regulatory principles, a guiding document for developing the next Strategic Plan. The principles will be published on the organization’s website in the The Board received an update from Engineers and Geoscientists BC CEO Heidi Yang, P.Eng., on various topics, including: • the National Technical Exam Information Portal Project and the Enhancing Administrative Fairness Project. These government grant-funded projects aim to help reduce barriers for internationally coming months. CEO report

educated applicants in accordance with the International Credentials Recognition Act ; • the public awareness campaign’s early results, which saw television ads generate 3.3 million impressions and YouTube yield 340,000 completed views. Final analysis will be available alongside Engineers and Geoscientists BC’s annual Public Opinion survey results later this year; • Engineers Canada’s Annual Meetings and CEO Group meetings held in Calgary from May 20-23, 2026, where discussions focused on areas of potential collaboration and harmonization, aging infrastructure, and artificial intelligence. Additionally, the per capita assessment fee for 2028 was set for $12 per registrant; and • Geoscientists Canada’s Annual Meetings held in St. John’s, New Brunswick, June 5-6, 2026. Engineers and Geoscientists BC representative to Geoscientists Canada, Antigone Dixon-Warren, P.Geo., was also announced as President Elect for 2027-2028. Other reports The Board received reports from staff and representatives on the following additional topics: • The Board received an update on Engineers and Geoscientists BC’s Strategic Plan and the organization’s KPI Report from COO Alison Dantas. • The Board received its annual update from Engineers and

Geoscientists BC’s representatives to Engineers Canada Ann English, P.Eng. (non-practising) and Mark Adams, P.Eng., who presented an overview of Engineers Canada’s progress on its current strategic priorities. • The Board received an update from Nomination Committee Chair Mark Porter, P.Eng., Struct.Eng., FEC, FGC on the process followed by the Nomination Committee to identify and select candidates to be put forward for the four vacant Board positions in the 2026 Engineers and Geoscientists BC Board election. Appointments Investigation Committee • Cord MacLean, P.Eng., LEED AP • Douglas Richard Nicol, P.Eng. • Edward William Lee, P.Eng. • Sharon Maksym, P.Eng. Discipline Committee • Scott Kemp, Architect AIBC, RIBA, FRAIC, LEED AP • John Kerolus, P.Eng., M.Eng. • William Daley Clohan, P.Eng. (BC, YT, ON), MASc, PMP, PE (AK, WA) Audit & Practice Review Committee • Sama Abri • Mark Tatchell Credentials Committee • Emil Tomescu, P.Eng., FEC • Jose Torrecampo, P.Eng., FEC

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Board meeting agendas, minutes, and highlights.

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REGULATORY NEWS

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New Regulatory Learning Module available

The new Regulatory Learning Module (RLM) for this reporting year focuses on quality management standards and the guides that support them. This module, a mandatory component of Engineers and Geoscientists BC's Continuing Education (CE) Program, examines the nine quality management standards and explains how the corresponding quality management guides help professional registrants and registrant firms understand and meet the intent of those requirements. “The professional reliance model depends on every registrant understanding the quality management standards and using the corresponding guides to meet their obligations” said Harshan Radhakrishnan, P.Eng., Acting Manager of Engineers and Geoscientists BC’s Professional Practice Advice Program. “For this reason, the standards and guides are a core part of Engineers and Geoscientists BC’s regulatory approach and are fundamental to the regulation of professional practice and the protection of the public interest, including public safety and the environment.” The module covers standards related to: • authentication • retention of project documentation • documented checks • field reviews • direct supervision • independent review of structural designs • independent review of high-risk professional activities or work

• use of professional practice guidelines • documented risk assessments

The quality management standards were established to support Engineers and Geoscientists BC's mandate to protect the public interest by requiring documented processes that help registrants and firms manage risk and demonstrate compliance with their professional obligations. “Together these standards and guides support a consistent approach to professional practice. They help registrants understand the risks associated with their professional activities, determine the type and extent of checks, field reviews, and independent reviews required, and clearly identify who is professionally responsible for each part of the work so that the basis for professional assurance is understood,” Radhakrishnan said. Registrant firms must also have documented policies and procedures in their Professional Practice Management Plan that meet the quality management requirements in the bylaws and that are followed by professional registrants employed by or under contract with the firm. Practising engineers and geoscientists must complete the new RLM during the current reporting year, which runs from July 1, 2026, to June 30, 2027. The course is anticipated to take approximately 90 minutes, with successful completion automatically recording 1.5 CE Hours in the regulatory learning category.

The Regulatory Learning Module is available in the Knowledge Centre.

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REGULATORY NEWS

BCSEG introduces strategic plan

The BC Society of Engineersing and Geoscience (BCSEG) has sets its direction and identified priorities for 2026-2029 in its newly published strategic plan. In her message to BCSEG members, CEO Pria Sandu explained, "By 2029, BCSEG aims to be a recognized and sustainable organization with a growing and engaged membership, increased visibility of the professions, strong participation in branch activities, and strengthened organizational capacity. "This vision is supported by measurable goals related to membership growth, engagement, financial sustainability, and stakeholder relationships." Specifically, BCSEG aims to: • Define a clear value proposition • Build the brand • Foster trust with partners The strategic plan was developed by the BCSEG Board, members and community participants and focuses on strategic priorities. The vision is to be "A recognized,

trusted and sustainable voice for the engineering and geoscience professions in BC.

Read BCSEG's strategic plan.

PST on engineering and geoscience services expected to take effect on October 1

• Project management services • Construction management services

Some professional engineers and geoscientists services in BC are scheduled to be subject to provincial sales tax (PST) effective October 1, 2026. In the 2026 Budget, the BC government outlined an expansion of PST to certain professional services, including engineering and geoscience services. PST will apply to 30 percent of the price of engineering and geoscience services at the standard seven percent rate. Practitioners who provide newly taxable services are required to register to collect and remit PST unless an exemption applies. Engineering and geoscience services exempt from PST are: • Advisory services and concept design services

The tax applies to all projects situated in BC. An exemption may be applied if a portion of the project is situated outside of BC, such as a highway infrastructure project that spans from BC to Alberta. The registration portal to collect PST is open, and registration must be completed online through the BC government’s PST system. Engineers and geoscientists are encouraged to review the provincial notice directly to understand how the changes may apply to their practice.

Read the notice on PST for engineering and geoscience services.

• Construction related services • Resident engineering services

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REGULATORY NEWS

Register now for AGM and conference

submitted by in-person and virtual attendees. Registrants are welcome to submit motions for consideration at the AGM. The deadline for submissions is September 14 at 5 p.m. Registrants who would like to submit a motion should read the Motion Submission Guide and complete the motion submission form on the website (scan AGM code below). All registrants are encouraged to attend and participate in the AGM. Students and members of the public are welcome to attend as observers. Annual Conference The Annual Conference features Continuing Education sessions and inspirational keynote speakers. Registrants can learn from experts and connect with industry leaders and peers in networking opportunities. The final deadline to register in advance for conference sessions is October 5. No refunds will be allowed after September 14.

The 107th Annual General Meeting (AGM) and Annual Conference will be held in Victoria, from October 14-16. Registration is open for both events, which will be held at the Victoria Conference Centre. AGM The AGM, held October 14, at 2 p.m., is an opportunity for registrants to hear from the Board and senior staff about the organization’s strategic progress, key initiatives, and financial standing. The AGM will use a hybrid format allowing registrants to attend virtually or in person. Last year, almost 1,000 people attended the AGM in Vancouver, either in person or online. Since more registrants attend the AGM online than in person, this year the Board agreed to adjust the format of the question period. The Chair will alternate between two in-person questions or comments, followed by three online questions. As in prior years, comments and questions may be

For information and to register for the AGM.

For information and to register for the Annual Conference.

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Innovation Fall 2026

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PROFESSIONAL PRACTICE

Professional practice guidelines and advisories

Professional practice guidelines and advisories in development

Professional Practice Guidelines – Approving Authority Reviews These guidelines will establish expectations and obligations for professional registrants working for statutory decision makers who review submissions under a professional reliance model. It will clarify the roles and responsibilities of reviewing and submitting professionals, establish principles for defining the scope and depth of reviews, and help registrants balance appropriate reliance on professional work with their duty to support informed regulatory decisions. Professional Practice Advisory – Temporary Excavations This practice advisory provides guidance to registrants involved in the design of temporary excavations. It outlines key professional practice and quality management expectations for work that can pose significant risks to workers and the public. The advisory emphasizes the use of engineering judgment, technical analysis, and coordination among disciplines, while recognizing that each project must be designed and assessed based on its specific site conditions and risks.

P hoto : G orodenkoff P roductions /F otolia

For more information about these practice advisory and professional practice guidelines, contact Leane Holloway, MSc., GIT at lholloway@egbc.ca.

Submit your climate change case studies

• Climate risk-informed decision-making • Innovative tools, methods or technologies • Meaningful incorporation of Indigenous knowledge • Community engagement and partnership with Indigenous organizations • Interdisciplinary collaboration and knowledge sharing • Effective communication and building the case for sustainability • Organizational policies, programs, or strategies

Engineers and Geoscientists BC is seeking case studies that demonstrate how climate change and sustainability considerations are incorporated into professional practice. Examples from all sectors and areas of practice in engineering or geoscience are welcome. Submissions do not need to involve a specific project. They can be examples that demonstrate how climate change and sustainability considerations influenced professional practice. The case studies will be part of the resources shared with firm registrants participating in the new Firm Practice Enhancement Program (Sustainability), to help their registrants incorporate sustainability considerations into their professional practice. Case study submissions should illustrate: • Climate risk, adaptation and resilience assessment • Sustainable design • Natural asset management and nature-based solutions

To submit your case study, scan the QR code to find the form online or contact sustainability@egbc.ca .

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Professional practice inquiries

When multiple parties contribute to a project, who takes professional responsibility?

documents prepared by the sub-consultant’s professionals must be authenticated under its Permit to Practice. When a firm engages an individual professional directly as a sub-consultant, professional documents prepared under that engagement must be authenticated under the firm’s Permit to Practice. In either case, professional responsibility for the work remains with the professional registrant who performed the work. Overall, regardless of the arrangement, professional registrants must only authenticate documents they prepared in their professional capacity or that were prepared under their direct supervision. Registrants should not authenticate a document unless they are able to take professional responsibility for it. Contractual or commercial disputes are not valid grounds for withholding authentication, nor should they be used to pressure a registrant to authenticate a document when the requirements for doing so have not been met. Finally, it is important to recognize that a professional registrant’s legal liability is not determined solely by whether a document has been authenticated. Liability may still arise where a registrant prepared, or directly supervised the preparation of, documents that were delivered to and relied upon by others, regardless of whether those documents were authenticated. Ryan Dai, MSc, EIT Practice Advisor

Engineering and geoscience projects are often interdisciplinary and complex, requiring input from multiple professionals. Effective coordination and collaboration are essential to achieving outcomes that protect the public interest and the environment. When more than one individual contributes to professional work, it is important to clearly define the allocation of professional responsibility. In practice, professional responsibility is typically assumed in one of a few ways: • multiple professionals contributing within their respective areas of expertise; • a supervising professional assuming responsibility for work completed under their direct supervision; and • consultant and sub-consultant arrangements. When multiple professional registrants take professional responsibility for portions of a single work product, each registrant must authenticate the document and clearly identify the portion of the work for which they are taking professional responsibility. Under the principle of direct supervision, a supervising professional must be aware of and actively involved in the work throughout its development. This involvement must be documented. Because the supervising professional assumes full professional responsibility for the work, they must authenticate documents prepared under their direct supervision. If one registrant firm, Firm A, engages another registrant firm, Firm B, as a sub-consultant, professional

Guidelines and advisories Scan the QR code to see all professional practice guidelines and practice advisories.

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INNOVATION SERIES: EMERGING GLOBAL ISSUES

As the world changes, professional engineers and geoscientists are rapidly responding to new challenges. To focus on how emerging global trends may impact the professions, Innovation is publishing a four-part feature series on the following topics: • quantum computing (Summer 2026 edition) • critical minerals and mining • climate change • cross-profession collaboration

Series: part 2

THE CHASE TO ACCESS CRITICAL MINERALS By Brian MacIver Around the world, the race is on to secure critical minerals needed for clean energy systems, advanced manufacturing, artificial intelligence, and defence technologies. As global demand for these minerals and elements continues to grow, the question facing the mining industry is whether the technology, infrastructure, workforce, and regulatory systems can evolve quickly enough to bring them to market efficiently and cost effectively.

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S ixteen of Canada's federally identified critical resources, which is driving new mining technology. “BC is obviously really competitive,” says James Scott, P.Geo., founder of Welcot Consulting Ltd. “We've got the industry; we've got the skills.” The push toward electrification also forces companies to re-examine where those resources come from and how quickly they can be developed. “I think a lot of it has been driven by the fact that we've had this push for electrification with electric cars,” says Dr. Russell Hartlaub, P.Geo., a professor at BCIT's School of Construction and the Environment. “And so, in the spotlight are things like lithium and graphite.” More electric vehicles require batteries, charging infrastructure and transmission lines, all of which rely heavily on mined materials.For BC to remain competitive, companies have to be competitive and innovative. Innovation underground: block caving Newmont's Red Chris copper-gold mine in northwestern BC is addressing the challenges by adopting a different mining technique. Located in the Golden minerals are in BC. This geological bounty places BC at the centre of the international competition for

Triangle, a mineral-rich mining district near the Alaska border, Newmont is shifting toward block caving, a mining method that allows companies to access deep underground ore bodies that would no longer be practical to mine through conventional open-pit expansion. The company explains that in block caving, miners excavate an undercut beneath the orebody and create a network of drawpoints below it. Once a small percentage of the deposit is blasted, gravity takes over – the orebody progressively fractures and collapses into funnels known as drawbells, where the broken rock is collected and transported to surface for processing. Put simply, block caving is a controlled, engineered collapse. The method is particularly attractive for large, low-grade porphyry copper deposits because it can achieve very high overall extraction. It also enables mining companies to access ore located thousands of metres below surface without constructing increasingly larger surface excavations or bringing as much waste rock to the surface as open-pit mining, all while reducing the mine’s surface footprint.

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recovery can translate into substantial additional metal production. Material that is uneconomic to recover today may become a future resource if processing technologies improve. Electrification in mining Red Chris also highlights another trend reshaping mining: electrification. According to information provided by Newmont, the project will rely heavily on electrified systems, including extensive conveyor infrastructure that reduces dependence on conventional haul-truck haulage. Conveyor systems move material continuously, require less energy per tonne-kilometre transported than truck fleets, and eliminate much of the diesel consumption associated with conventional open-pit operations. The company expects greenhouse-gas emissions intensity to decline as operations become increasingly electrified and automated. At the same time, workforce needs are shifting toward electricians, instrumentation specialists, automation technicians, and other highly skilled technical roles.

The biggest technical and environmental challenge is managing subsidence. As the orebody caves underground, the rock above gradually settles into the newly created void space. Engineers and geoscientists must carefully model how stresses will redistribute through the surrounding rock mass, how quickly subsidence will occur, and how that movement could affect groundwater pathways, surface infrastructure, and nearby geological structures. Monitoring systems commonly include extensometers, microseismic arrays, geotechnical instrumentation, and increasingly sophisticated 3D geomechanical modelling software. Block caving also creates a metallurgical challenge. As the orebody collapses, waste rock from surrounding zones can mix with the ore stream, a phenomenon known as dilution. That dilution lowers the average grade of the material arriving at the processing plant. More tonnes must therefore be crushed, ground, and processed to recover the same quantity of metal, increasing energy consumption and producing larger volumes of tailings. However, those larger volumes create opportunities. Because bulk-mining methods process enormous quantities of material, even small improvements in Block caving conveyor system In the Red Chris block caving project, water is pumped into targeted ore mass areas to help break it into smaller sections (1); an undercut is created beneath the ore mass and gravity pulls it down (2-3); the broken up ore moves through drawbells from the undercut level to the extraction level (4); the ore goes to an underground crusher before being transported via conveyors to a process plant or mill for further processing (5-6). g raPhIc : c ourteSy of n eWMont c orPoratIon

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Innovation Fall 2026

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Brucejack Mine in northern BC extracts gold and silver. P hoto : r uSS h eInL /S hutterStock

The result is a mine that increasingly resembles a highly integrated industrial process. Yesterday's waste, tomorrow's resource Historically, most mines were designed to recover a single

materials that have become significantly more valuable. Cobalt, germanium, indium, rare earth elements, silver, nickel, and residual copper can all remain trapped within old tailings streams. In some cases, operators are finding that yesterday's waste may contain tomorrow's critical minerals. Recovering those materials requires far more than simply digging up the tailings and running them through the same plant a second time. Many tailings deposits contain particles measured in microns rather than millimetres. According to Scott, these ultra-fine particles can behave very differently than freshly mined ore. Once particles become sufficiently small, electrostatic forces can become more influential than gravity, making traditional gravity-separation methods largely ineffective. “Reprocessing tailings can be very difficult,” he says.

commodity. A copper mine focused on copper. A nickel mine focused on nickel. Anything that couldn't be recovered economically using the available technology often ended up in the tailings facility. Today, however, many of those historic tailings deposits contain

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such as cobalt and rare earth elements suddenly gain strategic value. The longer-term goal is to design mines with future reprocessing in mind. Large block-cave and bulk-mining operations process such enormous volumes of ore that even fractional improvements in future recovery could yield meaningful quantities of additional metal. Viewed this way, some tailings facilities become long term mineral inventories rather than permanent waste repositories. That said, not all tailings deposits are suitable candidates. Some legacy sites remain environmental liabilities due to acid rock drainage and metal leaching. In those situations, reprocessing may provide an opportunity to recover value and improve environmental conditions. Other sites have been successfully reclaimed and stabilized. Disturbing those facilities could introduce new environmental risks and liabilities. “We can't think of all tailings reprocessing as being equal,” Scott says.

I think we're in a stage of incremental improvements rather than paradigm changing technologies.

James Scott, P.Geo. Founder of Welcot Consulting Ltd.

”

Modern reprocessing typically begins with extensive characterization drilling and sampling programs to determine the particle-size distribution, mineralogy, geochemistry, moisture content, acid-generation potential, and spatial distribution of valuable elements throughout the deposit. “Characterization is a big challenge [with tailings reprocessing],” Scott says. Unlike a conventional orebody, tailings may have been deposited over decades through changing operational practices, making their internal structure far less predictable. Once characterized, the material may be processed using several technologies, Scott explains. Modern flotation systems employ highly selective reagents that attach to specific minerals and improve recovery rates compared to older circuits. Fine grinding technologies such as stirred mills and regrind circuits can liberate valuable minerals that were previously locked within waste particles. Chemical extraction methods, including vat leaching and other hydrometallurgical processes, can dissolve minerals that conventional flotation could not economically recover. Hartlaub notes that advances in leaching technologies are making it possible to extract metals that earlier generations of operators simply left behind. Designing mines for the future The economics of tailings reprocessing are also changing. Scott says, many historic mines operated when metal prices were significantly lower than today. Material that was considered waste at a copper price of $2.50 per pound may become attractive when prices are substantially higher or when secondary products

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Copper Mountain Mine, near Princeton, BC, produces copper and silver. P hoto : I van S abo /S hutterstock

Technological changes The technologies attracting the most attention are often those that allow companies to reject waste earlier, recover more valuable material, and improve operational efficiency without dramatically increasing costs. Machine-vision systems are among the most promising examples. Companies like MineSense (with whom Scott has collaborated) are working to connect geological models directly to mining equipment. Using sensors, machine learning, and ore-characterization technologies, these systems can identify ore and waste material in real time. By reducing dilution and ore loss, operators can improve recovery while sending fewer tonnes of low-value rock to the mill. Other technologies focus on gathering better information before mining even begins. One example is muon tomography, Scott explains. Borrowing concepts from particle physics, the technology uses naturally occurring cosmic-ray muons to measure density differences within rock masses. “You drill a drill hole, you drop your muon detector down and you can actually look up to see the density of the material above and actually save a huge amount of drilling by getting very accurate three-dimensional models of the underground,” Scott says. Autonomous haulage systems are slowly gaining traction as well. Unlike conventional trucks operated individually by human drivers, autonomous fleets can continuously optimize routes, speeds, queue times, and

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Even so, the cumulative effect of those improvements could be substantial. One of Scott's favourite sayings about innovation captures the industry's mindset: “We will race to be second.” Mining companies are often reluctant to be the first adopter of a new technology on a billion dollar operation. But once a technology demonstrates reliability, adoption can occur quickly across the sector. The future of mining may be filled with autonomous haul trucks, machine vision, advanced sensing systems, and new metallurgical processes but, Hartlaub and Scott agree, the people who implement those innovations may ultimately matter more than the technologies themselves. As experienced professionals retire and demand for critical minerals continues to grow, they highlight the mining industry needs a new generation of engineers and geoscientists willing to challenge assumptions, embrace new technologies, and ask difficult questions. As Scott says, “the innovative ideas are going to come from people who don't know how to do it.”

fuel consumption across an entire operation. Similar optimization is occurring through drone-based surveying, automated reconciliation systems, hyperspectral core scanning, and real-time geotechnical monitoring. Shifting to electrification Electrification remains one of the industry's most significant opportunities, according to Scott and Hartlaub. In underground mines, electrically powered equipment can dramatically reduce ventilation requirements because less diesel exhaust must be removed from the workings. Smaller ventilation systems translate into lower operating costs, reduced infrastructure requirements, and improved working conditions. However, Scott notes that broader adoption remains dependent on access to sufficient electrical infrastructure and grid capacity. Importantly, he cautions against expecting a single breakthrough technology to transform mining overnight. “I think we're in a stage of incremental improvements rather than paradigm changing technologies,” he says.

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CONTINUING EDUCATION

SPEAKER SPOTLIGHT DR. BRAD HAYES, P.GEO. Engineers and Geoscientists BC’s Continuing Education (CE) program is always looking for qualified speakers who can provide valuable and interesting information for the practices of geoscience and engineering. We asked long-time speaker Dr. Brad Hayes, P.Geo., what it takes to be a presenter and what he takes away from the experience.

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the technical and economic feasibility and viability of CCS as a mechanism for emissions reduction, and it’s confusing for non-specialists. I want to offer Engineers and Geoscientists BC professionals accurate and current information on CCS, both its technical foundations and progress to date on a global scale.

Where does your passion for sustainability in the geoscience and engineering profession originate?

I’ve come to learn over the course of my career that many sustainability solutions lie in the sedimentary rocks that also host oil and gas, which I’ve worked on over my entire career. It’s been challenging and fascinating to learn how to apply geoscience knowledge gained in oil and gas exploration to applications such as carbon storage, energy storage, and exploration for lithium in oilfield brines. Why is focusing your presentation on Carbon Capture Storage (CCS) in Canada important for registrants? There’s a lot of conflicting information out there on Q

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What do you hope conference attendees will take away from your session?

I hope that attendees will gain a more complete and technically accurate understanding of how carbon capture and storage works, and an appreciation for how it can contribute to a reduction of net greenhouse gas emissions generated by human activities.

CONTINUING EDUCATION REQUIREMENTS The Continuing Education (CE) Program is mandatory and applies to all registrants with practice rights. Participation in the CE Program is optional for Engineers-in-training, Geoscientists-in-training, Non-Practising, Retired, and Life Non-Practising registrants. By June 30 each year, registrants must complete CE requirements in their online reporting system and then submit their CE declaration in the annual reporting system.

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Dr. Brad Hayes, P.Geo., is a Senior Geoscience Advisor with GLJ, a geoscience and engineering consulting firm. He is also an adjunct professor in the University of Alberta Department of Earth and Atmospheric Sciences.

AnnUAL COnFEREnCE PRESEnTATIOn CCS in Canada – Are We Making Progress? • October 16 • 9-10 a.m. • Technical learning credit The presententation looks at Canadian and global Carbon Capture and Storage (CCS) projects and supporting research to determine how well we are progressing toward achieving meaningful reduction of CO 2 emissions.

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What value or professional growth do you get being a speaker at CE events?

What was a memorable experience from one of your presentations?

Even when addressing professional audiences such as EGBC members, I’ve occasionally encountered advocates passionately opposed to the topics I bring to the table, particularly related to oil and gas development. There have been a couple of talks where other audience members have had to intervene to get the session back on track.

CE speakers are held to very high standards, particularly as they are addressing highly knowledgeable and technically sophisticated audiences. I have to work hard on research and presentation to communicate information of value, and developing these skills is important to my professional growth. Do you hope your example of being a CE speaker will encourage other registrants to participate? Absolutely – I hope that other registrants will appreciate the value that CE speakers bring to Engineers and Geoscientists BC, and will be encouraged to share their own experiences and findings. Q

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What advice would you give to someone new to giving CE presentations?

Put a lot of thought into your research and your messages to ensure that you’re speaking with knowledge and authority, and that you’re representing issues fairly and accurately. It can be a tough crowd!

KNOWLEDGE CENTRE The Knowledge Centre hosts more than 100 on-demand recorded and self-directed courses for educational opportunities.

CALL FOR PRESENTERS Are you an expert in your field who would like to contribute to professional practice? Engineers and Geoscientists BC is seeking registrants to present on a variety of topics.

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