Driving Mining Innovation Through Collaboration
Date/Time: Monday, November 2 | 10:15am
Location: Carlton Room
P2INACLE and ARCH Airworks Abstract: Drriving Mining Innovation Through Collaboration: Remote Sensing and Detection Models for Critical-Mineral Exploration
Speakers: Sabrina Kehoe and Nick Kuncewicz
In an era defined by complex challenges and rapid technological change in mining and mining exploration, innovation is increasingly driven through purposeful collaboration. This presentation examines the role of applied research as a bridge between discovery and real-world impact, demonstrating how P2INACLE – a collaborative research network in the Prairies – accelerates economic growth while delivering meaningful social outcomes.
The presentation will introduce a new applied research partnership between P2INACLE and ARCH Airworks Inc. focused on developing and validating various remote sensing workflows for critical-mineral exploration and precursory detection in Manitoba. Combining hyperspectral imaging with complementary geospatial datasets, the project will investigate how spectral and terrain information can support the identification and interpretation of geological features and potential exploration targets. This collaborative project will build upon technical and practical integration of optical remote sensing, field data acquisition, and analysis, alongside the role of industry–research collaboration in translating emerging sensing and detection technologies into repeatable, commercially useful exploration tools.
Speakers
Sabrina Kehoe, P2INACLE
Sabrina Kehoe serves as the P2INACLE Navigator where she provides strategic leadership for network coordination, partnership development, and program delivery across the multi‑institutional applied research ecosystem.
In this role, she advances collaboration among polytechnic partners, aligns industry‑driven opportunities with research capacity, and supports sustainable network growth.
Known for her strong relationship‑building skills and results‑focused approach, Sabrina plays a central role in translating strategy into action and ensuring P2INACLE delivers measurable research and innovation outcomes.
Nick Kuncewicz, ARCH Airworks
Nick Kuncewicz is the founder, owner/operator, and CEO of ARCH Airworks Inc., a Manitoba-based geospatial and remote sensing company specializing in advanced UAV data acquisition, processing, and analysis. He holds an MSc in Archaeological Science from Lakehead University, where his research focused on UAV-based remote sensing and its application to non-invasive archaeological investigation.
Through ARCH Airworks, Nick works directly with UAV and mobile LiDAR systems, multispectral imaging, thermal sensing, visible light cameras, and emerging hyperspectral technologies across archaeology and cultural heritage, environmental assessment, forestry, and mineral exploration. His current work includes the development and field validation of integrated hyperspectral and geospatial workflows for critical-mineral exploration in Manitoba, alongside ongoing R&D in GIS-based analysis, automated feature detection, and machine-learning applications for remote sensing data.
Nick is also an Advanced RPAS pilot and a professional practicing archaeologist bringing a field-oriented perspective to the development and commercialization of remote sensing technologies, with a focus on translating emerging sensor capabilities into practical tools for industry.
Chair
Ed Suzuki, MMDF
Edward Suzuki is a Program Manager leading the Manitoba Mineral Development Fund (MMDF) at the Manitoba Chambers of Commerce. With a master’s in city planning from the University of Manitoba and a bachelor’s in urban studies from the University of Winnipeg, Edward combines academic insight with hands-on experience in mineral exploration and economic development.
He has overseen diverse projects across Manitoba, focusing on strategic planning, stakeholder engagement, and sustainable growth. At MMDF, he evaluates applications, allocates resources, and monitors project progress, working closely with exploration companies, government bodies, and development organizations.
Outside of work, Edward enjoys biking, hiking, photography, and exploring Canada’s natural landscapes.