Saskatchewan stands out globally for the quality, quantity, and variety of its mineral resources, particularly uranium and potash. The province is also gaining recognition for new discoveries of minerals essential for a sustainable future. Beyond its natural wealth, Saskatchewan's mining sector is celebrated for collaborative innovation, exemplified by the International Minerals Innovation Institute (IMII).
IMII's Mission and Impact
Dedicated to driving transformative change and building a sustainable minerals sector, the IMII brings together prominent members from private and public sectors, representing diverse mining interests. It maintains strong ties with organizations like the Saskatchewan Mining Association (SMA), the Saskatchewan Industrial and Mining Suppliers Association (SIMSA), and the Global Institute for Energy, Minerals and Society.
"While our focus is Saskatchewan, the impacts of what we do can be felt globally," says Lesley McGilp, IMII executive director. "Our focus is innovation and workforce development — the collective value proposition culminating in people who can think and work collaboratively and innovatively."
Key Innovations and Initiatives
Since its establishment in 2012, the IMII has supported numerous successful initiatives. One early project was developing mining engineering options at the University of Saskatchewan. A major technological advancement is the Ionic Mechatronics SafeBox, which allows operators to safely shut down machines for maintenance in seconds instead of hours. Another safety collaboration with Saskatchewan universities focuses on ground control to prevent underground mine collapses, spanning a decade of research.
Addressing Workforce Challenges
Despite operating in a competitive market, Saskatchewan mining companies face common challenges, especially attracting and retaining a skilled workforce. According to the 2024 Saskatchewan Mining Labour Market Analysis, the industry will need an additional 15,000 workers by 2034, not including replacements for retirees. The IMII's workforce development programs aim to address this critical need through collaborative training and education.
