March is always a whirlwind for the mining industry. As thousands gathered at PDAC 2025, the energy was electric—aside from the thousands of steps our watches tracked—as industry leaders tackled the ever-evolving challenges of our global sector. Beyond the buzz of critical minerals, tariffs, and supply chains, one theme stood out: trailblazers. While men still dominate these discussions, the momentum is shifting, and women are steadily gaining the recognition they deserve.
Mining has never been an easy space for women, but change is happening. At PDAC, I had the opportunity to connect with members of the IWiM 2025 committee, led by María José Rodríguez and Barbara Dischinger, Founder and Director of IWiM. Their work is making a real impact—ensuring that women in mining aren’t just acknowledged but actively supported in shaping the industry’s future.
Another key conversation at PDAC centered on Indigenous communities and the mining sector. There’s no question: companies must move beyond consultation toward true collaboration. Indigenous voices must be central to decision-making, ensuring that projects reflect shared values and priorities.
Reconciliation—both within the industry and within Indigenous communities themselves—is another pressing issue. The mining sector has a responsibility to bridge historical divides, acknowledge past harms, and build a path forward that prioritizes equity and inclusion. Industry voices like Peggy Bell and Indigenous leaders such as Chad Norman Day continue to push for a future where diversity, reconciliation, and responsible mining are not just ideals, but realities.
Mining is about more than technology and deposits—it’s about people. The future of this industry will be shaped by those who challenge conventions, push for inclusivity, and commit to meaningful engagement.
As we close the book on another PDAC and look ahead, my takeaway is this. Industry is no longer just about extracting value from the ground—it’s about creating lasting value for people and communities. And that’s a future worth fighting for.
