Speakers

We were honoured to welcome an inspiring group of mine water specialists and leaders to the 2025 conference. Their experience and insights helped shape thoughtful conversations about the future of water in mining.

Path to Responsible Mine Water Closure

Ashley Jay

Ashley Jay, EIT

Project Engineer
Skeena Gold and Silver

Francis McAlister

Francis McAlister

Vice President of Land and Water
Freeport McMoRan

Bjorn Weeks

Bjorn Weeks

Director, Closure
Teck Resources

Kate Patterson

Moderator: Kate Patterson

Civil, Tailings and Water Resource Engineer, Principal
Klohn Crippen Berger

This session explored the current and future vision for responsible mine water closure. Speakers examined the distinctions between legacy, existing, and proposed projects. The conversation highlighted partnerships with Indigenous communities, investment in research, and new economic approaches that support safe and sustainable water outcomes for future generations.

Community Led Monitoring and Leadership Training, A TWILD Case Study

Cynthia Callison

Cynthia Callison

TWILD Board Member
Partner, Callison and Hanna Indigenous Advocates

Nathan Skubovius

Nathan Skubovius

TWILD Board Member
Mining Engineer EIT, Teck Resources

Ocean Van Mierlo

Ocean Van Mierlo

Bachelor of Science Student
Previous Tene Mehodihi Student

Dr. Nadja Kunz

Moderator: Dr. Nadja Kunz

Associate Professor and Canada Research Chair
University of British Columbia

This session shared the work of the Tu dese cho Wholistic Indigenous Leadership Development Society. TWILD focuses on community wellbeing through land based learning that blends cultural knowledge with academic and career development. Panelists spoke about the community led monitoring program and the Tene Mehodihi program and their impact on responsible water and mining practices.

Dr. Andy Robertson Tribute Panel

Christoph Wels

Christoph Wels

President and Senior Hydrologist
Robertson GeoConsultants

Shannon Shaw

Shannon Shaw

Senior Geochemist
pHase Geochemistry

Dr. Roger Beckie

Moderator: Dr. Roger Beckie

Professor
Groundwater Hydrology and Geotechnical Engineering
University of British Columbia

This session honoured Dr. Andy Robertson, a respected mining engineer whose work shaped modern approaches to water and waste management. His leadership, mentorship, and research continue to guide environmental stewardship in the mining sector.