A Sudbury mine contractor is building a new training centre to help prepare workers for careers in underground mining.
This spring, Technica Mining kicked off construction of the facility, called the JiJaak Waazhimoonegen-Teg Technica Mining Advanced Training Centre. The company believes it will provide “immersive, hands-on advanced training in a real underground setting for both new and experienced workers.”
In May, members of Atikameksheng Anishnawbek and Wahnapitae First Nation — which have struck partnership agreements with Technica — joined company representatives for a copper rod ceremony to launch the project.
“This is more than a training facility; it’s an investment in the future of mining,” said Mario Grossi, CEO of Technica Mining, in a July 30 news release.
“We’re proud to lead the way in providing advanced skill development opportunities that equip our workers to operate more safely and efficiently, ensuring we deliver the world-class service our clients have come to expect.”
The company said the centre would be "pivotal in advancing Indigenous participation in the mining industry."
Training at the centre will focus on job readiness, safety and retention across all levels of experience.
“Establishing an advanced training centre right here in our backyard will help us maintain the world-class service our clients expect,” Jonathon Pambianco, Technica's project superintendent, said in the release.
“It ensures every team member arrives on site fully job-ready, while giving us the flexibility to welcome newcomers to the industry and continuously upskill our existing workforce.”
Technica, which marked its 20th year in business in 2020, provides fully integrated services including underground construction, development and production, engineering, raise boring and surface mining.
In 2023, the company announced the launch of Aki-eh Dibinwewziwin, a partnership with Atikameksheng, Wahnapitae and Sagamok Anishnawbek.
Last year, Magna Mining announced it had awarded Aki-eh Dibinwewziwin the advanced exploration contract for its Crean Hill nickel-copper project, located west of Sudbury.
