Dr. Bruce C. Jago has been named the founding executive director of Laurentian University’s Goodman School of Mines.
Jago is a professional geologist and experienced mining executive who has worked with such companies as Wallbridge Mining (vice-president, exploration), Inco Ltd. (applied mineralogist, exploration manager), Temex Resources (project manager, diamonds) and Harry Winston Inc. (project geologist). Most recently, Jago has been president, CEO and director of Miocene Minerals Ltd. of Vancouver. His appointment follows an extensive global search, according to a statement from the university.
“We couldn’t be more pleased that Bruce Jago will be bringing his vision to the Goodman School,” president Dominic Giroux said in the statement. “His experience in the field, in Canada and abroad, his work with First Nations, his deep roots in mining and his belief in the industry all make him an ideal choice for this important founding position.”
Laurentian also announced a $500,000 investment by Franco-Nevada, which has interests in Sudbury’s Levack (Morrison), Podolsky and McCreedy mines, to fund the position.
“We believe that mining education is the pivotal factor in the future success of our industry,” said David Harquail of Franco-Nevada. “We are confident that Sudbury, Laurentian University and the Goodman School of Mines, under the direction of Bruce Jago, will provide a world-class training ground for the coming generations of mining professionals.”
Jago’s responsibilities will include:
expanding interdisciplinary majors and minors, thereby enhancing the skills of future professionals in mineral exploration and mining, in areas such as occupational health and safety, Indigenous relations, mining management and finance;
driving the creation of executive programs at the undergraduate and graduate levels, in modular, short-course or distance education formats, and other delivery mechanisms as opportunities may arise;
formalizing new provincial, national and international alliances with other post-secondary institutions, including an International Network of Schools of Mines with Laurentian serving as a major hub; and
doubling enrolment in mining-related programs by 2020.
“The world’s mineral resources must be developed efficiently, sustainably and equitably, so that all stakeholders receive maximum benefit,” Jago said. “There is no better place in the world for this multi-disciplinary approach to mining education, and I am thrilled with the opportunity to lead this exciting venture.”