U of S salutes first mining option graduates

SASKATOON - The University of Saskatchewan (U of S) will celebrate Saskatchewan Mining Week today by honouring the first class of graduates from its new mining and mineral processing options.

The inaugural class of students from the College of Engineering's innovative mining options in geological, mechanical and chemical engineering—offered in conjunction with the International Minerals Innovation Institute (IMII)—will receive their degrees during the first ceremony of U of S Spring Convocation this afternoon at TCU Place.

"The College of Engineering is playing a leading role in supporting the demand for highly skilled professionals and researchers in this vibrant and growing industry and we are proud to celebrate the success of this first class of graduates in the new options," said Aaron Phoenix, associate dean, academic, in the College of Engineering. "We are focused on being a catalyst for innovative thinking in the mining industry through education, research and training at the University of Saskatchewan."

The first graduating class features students who studied mechanical engineering and geological engineering options, trained in a pioneering partnership with the IMII that began in 2013. Funded by the U of S, the Government of Saskatchewan and the provincial minerals industry, the College of Engineering supports education and research in mining, one of the main drivers of the province's resource-based economy.

"These first graduates bode well for the future of mining in the province," said Al Shpyth, executive director of the IMII. "The creation of the three mining engineering options at the U of S was the first project funded by our members and it received their unanimous backing. These options, and the graduates and research they support, will help reflect Saskatchewan's status as not only one of Canada's largest mining jurisdictions, but also one of its most innovative and sustainable."

International Minerals Innovation Institute:

The IMII is a unique industry-government-post-secondary education and research institution partnership jointly funded by industry and government. The institute is a catalyst to developing industry-driven education and training programs to address labour force needs in the minerals sector, and conducting industry-driven research and development. More information is available at: http://www.imii.ca

University of Saskatchewan:
Established in 1907, the University of Saskatchewan has a long history of excellence. We are a member of the U15 group of Canada's top research-intensive universities, offering unique facilities such as the Canadian Light Source, VIDO-InterVac and the Global Institute for Water Security. The university is committed to First Nations, Métis and Inuit student success and to welcoming diverse perspectives and ways of knowing, both from across Saskatchewan and around the world. Our graduates are known for their work ethic, resourceful nature and determination, and will continue to build on our history of success to address the world's challenges. More information is available at
http://www.usask.ca
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For more information, contact:
Jennifer Thoma
Media Relations Specialist
University of Saskatchewan
306-966-1851
jennifer.thoma@usask.ca