In August, Mosaic invested $1 million over 5 years into Digital Transformation in Potash Mining program

Twelve students sat in the front row for the opening ceremonies of their new program, Morris Interactive’s Digital Transformation in Potash Mining (DTPM), which will educate them about working in the potash industry in Saskatchewan. These 12 students were selected from 291 applicants to be part of the 4th cohort of the program.  The instructor of the program, Benjamin Williamson, hopes the fact they were accepted into this program is the first step towards building confidence within themselves.

“Many young Indigenous people don't have the self-confidence to present themselves in a way that they can get hired by a mining company,” said Benjamin. “Going into a big industrial setting as an Indigenous person and not knowing what to expect can be very intimidating.”

Established in 2020, DTPM is a ten-week program with eight weeks of classes and two weeks of practicum at Mosaic’s Colonsay mine. The 4th cohort of students is part of the Saskatoon session, but DTPM will host another semester on Cowessess First Nation in August.

“The education we provide is from a holistic perspective, and so we go from stardust to crop nutrients,” said Benjamin. “We give students a deep base of understanding of the potash industry, the mining industry, and a basis of understanding even basic geology and how it relates to the universe. When the students come into the work setting, they can be confident they know what they're doing.”

In August 2022, Mosaic invested $1 million over five years into the DTPM and provides students with a two-week practicum at its Colonsay mine.

“Investing in DTPM aligns with Mosaic’s commitment to ensure 15 percent of our new hires are Indigenous peoples by 2025,” said Kelsie Stettner, Indigenous Engagement Coordinator. “It’s important for Indigenous peoples to feel empowered when starting a new job. Having a background about the type of work they will be doing will really go far in helping them feel welcome. This program provides Mosaic with a great partnership and is also the first step for many new hires of the company.” 

Twelve Students: Seven Women, Five Men

Jordyn Campbell is a Métis woman living in Saskatoon. She’s worked in the trades industry for many years, including operating heavy equipment. Jordyn applied for the DTPM to gain insight and education about gaining employment in the potash industry.

“I'm curious about the jobs,” said Jordyn. “I have family at Colonsay, and how awesome would that be to have a familiar face to see around? I'm just really hoping the door opens for job opportunities.”

Dayla Symbalisty is also a successful candidate for the DTPM program. She applied because she thinks working in the potash industry will help her grow as a professional and gain confidence. 

“I think it'll help me get out of my bubble,” said Dayla. “I've chosen some jobs where I know I'm going to work alone because I'm a little bit more introverted. In these jobs, I know teamwork will be a big thing.”

Both Dayla and Jordyn are happy DTPM program is for Indigenous students as it’s a way for them to feel close to their roots, and they are excited to learn with people who share a similar history.

“I'm excited to work with other Indigenous people,” said Dayla. “It feels good to be around other people who kind of get me, and you could make a joke and have people understand what you mean.”

Truth and Reconciliation Calls to Action #92

Having previously worked in the mining industry, Benjamin said he designed the DTMP program in line with the Truth and Reconciliation’s #92 Call to Action. Benjamin said there is no other program like DTMP in Canada, as it provides background and education about working in the potash industry while empowering Indigenous students.

“In the textbook, I wrote two large sections on the Indigenous history of mining in North and South America,” said Benjamin. “Another chapter on the history of women in mining. There is no other program targeted, specifically the potash mining industry, or taking it from a very high level or getting a holistic perspective.”