Did you know that the Canadian mining industry directly employs more than 373,000 workers across the country in mineral extraction, smelting, fabrication and manufacturing, and indirectly employs an additional 190,000 in other related fields? Mining is also the largest private sector employer of Aboriginal people in Canada on a proportional basis. Here at ABQ we decided it was time to take a look at a few of those individuals with careers that are in some way connected to mining.

Rita Denneron has lived in Yellowknife for 32 years and for more than 30 years of that time, she has worked as a mine safety administrative technician, currently at the Workers’ Safety and Compensation Commission (WSCC).

It still comes as a bit of a surprise even to herself.

“In 1986, I submitted my application to enroll in a two-year trainee program with the Safety Division within the GNWT’s Department of Justice,” she says. “I was selected as one of three successful candidates, became a mining and safety technician trainee, and after 30 years, I am the only one still working in the industry!”

At WSCC, Denneron is responsible for the Mine Certification Program, which involves coordinating and administering all mine exams for the Northwest Territories and Nunavut. Her job involves working closely with mine companies, workers, and trainers on a daily basis. It requires mining knowledge, awareness of all active mines and mining exploration in both territories, and the ability to speak to the Mine Health and Safety Act and related Regulations.

“The mining unit at the WSCC belongs within the Prevention Services Division, so I enjoy working with co-workers who have a diverse range of experience and professional backgrounds,” she says. “Since I administer mining exams and respond to related inquiries, I work with mining companies outside the organization on a daily basis, which I also very much enjoy. Working together and bringing our collective expertise to solve problems makes my job interesting because there are always new challenges to learn from and new opportunities to make myself more effective at work. My job brings me a great sense of pride, accomplishment, and satisfaction.”

That doesn’t mean she doesn’t have difficult days. “Communicating and coordinating with mine workers and all mining stakeholders is challenging,” she admits, adding that, “the satisfaction I get from my job and from completing daily assignments is tough to beat! I am a long-time Northerner and have great knowledge of the people, communities, and the mining companies, so I can always find a way to support anyone who needs assistance.”

Denneron is a member of the Dehcho First Nations. After residential school, she earned her General Education degree and completed a teacher education program, as well as taking Aboriginal linguistic courses. Later, she also completed courses in correspondence, business administration, and mining.

For her current job, she completed the two-year Mining and Safety Technician Trainee program.

“I had the opportunity to study the Surface and Underground Common Core stream, and was enrolled in the Canadian Centre for Occupational Health and Safety’s training program, as well as other related courses in Ontario,” she says. “To me, a career in mining and safety can mean a lot of different things, but I most enjoy helping Northern workers understand mining legislation and prepare for the workforce. Mining companies here have the opportunity to provide Aboriginal workers with more on-the-job training and to empower them to seek and discuss further education and opportunities.”

Denneron is passionate about getting as much education as you can and being responsible for your own success.

“Follow your dreams, be prepared, and take part in training and education,” she advises. “That will take you far in life. Be responsible for your daily work plan – take action, be on time, and come to work prepared every day. Furthering your education gives you the opportunity to learn to think in different ways. It will help boost your self-esteem and will help you to believe in yourself!”