Digging into the Job of a Lifetime
Career inspiration can come in unexpected ways. For Tiernan Davies, it was a camping trip that sparked his interest in geology.
“I was camping in northern Ontario when I saw a lithium exploration project. It immediately caught my attention – I knew right there that I wanted to pursue a job in mineral exploration. I applied that day to the Geological Technician Co-op program (at Fleming College).”
Tiernan’s appreciation for geology may have come on suddenly, but he hasn’t looked back. In fact, he was recently selected to attend the prestigious Student-Industry Mineral Exploration Workshop (S-IMEW) hosted by the Prospectors and Developers Association of Canada (PDAC). Taking place in Sudbury in May, the workshop brings together the top 26 geoscience post-secondary students from across Canada.
“Before starting the program, I had little awareness of geology. Shortly after beginning, I knew I had made the right decision as I quickly fell in love with my geology courses,” said Tiernan. “My favourite part of the program has definitely been the mineral exploration courses because they are taught by really great professors who have years of industry experience.”
The six-month paid co-op allowed him learn to about different aspects of geology but, he noted, it was some of the most demanding work he has ever done.
“However, I gained so much valuable knowledge. The co-op was an incredible experience. My education would not have been complete without it. I made a lot of contacts and got to try many different types of work.”
This included geophysics surveys, geology, and general labour duties around the camp, he said.
Tiernan is excited to bring the combination of knowledge and skills he has learned through the program to S-IMEW. The students will gain both a technical and business perspective of mineral exploration through hands-on activities and interaction with industry professionals.
“I was shocked when I learned about my successful application. I have worked hard both in my classes and during my co-op. To me, this is proof that hard work does pay off.”
He has a few bucket list items for his time at S-IMEW. This includes underground mine tours and networking events.
“My goal is to make as many connections with industry professionals as possible.”
And what’s next for Tiernan, following the Workshop? He will continue his studies in geology at Acadia University in Nova Scotia with plans to become an exploration geologist.
Geological Technician (formerly Earth Resources Technician) is a four-semester diploma program that includes a six-month paid co-operative education experience. Hosted within our School of Environmental and Natural Resource Sciences, the program is offered at our Frost Campus in Lindsay. You can learn more about Fleming’s 2+2 pathways here.