Mining Your Potential
Date/Time: Monday, November 3 | (11:15 am – 12:15 pm)
Location: Centennial Room
Hudbay Minerals: Mining Fundamentals – Creating Talent Pipelines
Session Overview:
The “Mining Fundamentals” session presents a comprehensive program designed to introduce individuals from local and surrounding communities to the opportunities available in mining. Developed in partnership with the Northern Manitoba Sector Council, this program provides participants with a solid foundation in core mining principles while enhancing essential skills.
The curriculum is a dynamic blend of classroom instruction and practical, hands-on experience, emphasizing safety as a paramount value throughout all activities. Participants are introduced to the operational environments of Hudbay, gaining firsthand knowledge of processes and technologies with a constant focus on safety protocols and procedures.
A key component of the program is the integration of job shadowing, allowing participants to observe and learn from experienced employees in real-world scenarios. This immersive approach provides valuable insights and prepares participants for potential employment opportunities, ensuring they are not only skilled but also deeply committed to a culture of safety. Ultimately, this program serves as a direct pathway to a career in the mining sector, upskilling and empowering community members for future success and providing a talent pipeline for mining in the north.
Speakers
Sandy Doverspike, Director of Human Resources and External Relations
Sandra Doverspike, a Flin Flon native and third-generation Hudbay employee, has family roots embedded in the mining industry. With over 18 years of service, her career at Hudbay is defined by a commitment to a holistic approach to talent management and community relations. She and her team uphold a philosophy focused on creating long-lasting programs that support and enhance both employees and the surrounding communities.
Sandra believes in building comprehensive programs around career pathing, leadership, professional development, and wellness. She recognizes these initiatives are vital not just for fulfilling roles, but for fostering enduring talent pipelines. Currently, as the Director of Human Resources and External Relations, she and her team continue to drive efforts to support the workforce, develop local talent, and build strong, lasting partnerships, with a focus on diversity and inclusion.
Richard Trudeau, Director of Health,
Safety and Aboriginal and External Affairs and Director Human Resources,
Indigenous and External Affairs Hudbay Minerals
Richard Trudeau has had a four-decade long career in the mining industry,
having recently retired from Hudbay Minerals in the role of Director of Health,
Safety and Aboriginal and External Affairs and Director Human Resources,
Indigenous and External Affairs.
Richard is also the past president of MAMI and a long-time Mine Rescue co-chair. He cares about the long-term sustainability of mining in the province and believes in the need for more “boots on the ground” and easy access for exploration companies to explore and find that next mine.
Richard remains heavily involved in the industry, currently serving at the chair of CCMEC 2025.
Glenn Laycock, Executive Director Northern Sector Council
Glenn Laycock is the Executive Director of the Northern Manitoba Sector Council (NMSC). Glenn grew up and still lives in Thompson, Manitoba. He started working in the mining Industry in 1987 and retired from Inco/Vale after 30 years. During his time with Inco/Vale Glenn was granted an education leave and graduated from the University of Winnipeg with a Bachelor of Arts in Environmental Studies.
In his years at Inco/Vale Glenn worked in numerous positions including Underground Miner, Mine Engineering Blaster, Superintendent of Training. and Superintendent of Logistics at the T-1 Mine until his retirement in 2019.
Glenn has been with NMSC for the past six years in the Thompson office. NMSC’s goals are to work with northern industry and communities to develop skills and create employment.
Chair: Ashton Crone
Ashton is a seasoned mining professional with an 18-year career at Hudbay Minerals, commencing in 2007. His extensive experience spans various operational and management roles, including General Foreman, Superintendent, Manager, and most recently, Director of Business Planning. With a focus on Milling and Processing Plants, Ashton brings extensive expertise in safety, operations, and project management, consistently driving continuous improvement and operational excellence. Notably, he led the successful commissioning and ramp-up of Hudbay’s New Britannia Gold Mill refurbishment project in 2021, and the Stall Mill phase 1 upgrades in 2023, solidifying Hudbay’s position as a leading gold producer in Manitoba.
Ashton’s vision lies in fostering the growth of Manitoba’s mining sector through the development of skilled labor, strategic infrastructure investments, strong government alignment, and the advancement of cutting-edge technology. He is committed to ensuring Manitoba remains a leading mining jurisdiction for years to come.