Cassandra Shewchuk, GIT

1. How did you decide on pursuing your degree(s)? Did you know about geology/geoscience before you entered university?

When I was 15, I visited the Highland Valley Copper Mine for a tour with my family, and I thought it was the coolest thing ever. I loved seeing the pit, the haul trucks, and learning about the operations from open to closure. I have always had a strong passion for earth sciences and being outside. I would always collect rocks as a kid. In fact, there was this house at Halloween that gave out tumbled rocks, and of course it was my favourite stop. I also love hiking, camping, exploring new things and places, the wilderness and wildlife.

I wanted a job that travels, and something where I am not at a desk all day. Something that gave me flexibility, that was dynamic, and the chance to make a difference every day. My parents suggested to me, “why don’t you be a geologist?” So, I did some research on what a geologist did, and the schooling I needed, and I was pretty much sold on it from there.

2. Describe your career progression since finishing undergrad.

I finished my BSc Honors in Physical Geography in April of 2019, and I finished my GIS certificate in April 2020. I completed a certificate in Mining Technologies from Queens between 2022 and 2023. During my last course in the winter of 2020, I got a job as a mineralogist in a lab. I performed laboratory tasks like bucking, sieving, and heavy liquid separation. I used a stereo microscope, and the scanning electron microscope (SEM) machine to identify minerals and mineral phases in ore bodies, concentrates, residues, and other materials. I also identified Au, Ag, and associated minerals for clients and for further analysis by ICPMS. That summer of my contract was finishing in the lab, I had the opportunity to work for an exploration company in the Golden Triangle. This was my chance to get into geology, so I took it. I spent a lot of time in the high alpine soil sampling and logging rock chips from RC drills, and geotechnical logging for the more experienced geologists, soaking up all the information and knowledge I could. This company gave me the chance to take part in a program in Rock Creek, south central BC, where I geologically logged diamond drill core, went prospecting with my coworker, and learned about the reclamation processes. This positive experience was really the gateway to me pursuing exploration geology.

               From there I spent time with several companies, performing several different roles from cutting core, to a junior geologist, to geologist, to a project geologist. I have worked all over Canada in remote places like Baffin Island, and not so remote places like Gibraltar Mines. Over the course of several seasons, I learned how to line up a drill, manage drillers and drill programs, plan drillholes, interpret data and models, use 3D modelling programs, use multiple different database forms, installed piezometers, gained experience working with helicopters, enhanced my rock sampling skillset, the ability to enhance my diamond drill core geological and geotechnical logging, coordinate and communicate with contractors, maintain and develop strong working relationships, and so much more. 

               Over the years, I have experienced hardships. It is not easy being a strong woman surrounding by the opposite gender, or even opposite minded people. I considered leaving the industry several times, but then I remembered all the positive memories and outcomes I had. Even if the experience itself was not so good, there is always something I learn and took with me to my next opportunity. As I was ready to throw in the towel, an opportunity at Mount Polley came up. I was offered a full time, permanent position as a Mine Geologist, performing ore control. My main role here is to make ore and waste designations using a 3D geological model based off assay data. These designations are used by mine operations and our technical staff for mine planning, digging and allocating rock to the correct location whether that is ore to the crusher or waste to a stockpile. A major part of this role is working cohesively with the miner operations team, as well as my cohort within the technical staff. I also do database validation and reconciliation daily, weekly and monthly, and contribute to annual reporting, prepare maps, design in pit exploration or take grab samples if needed, among other ad hoc duties.

               Working at Mount Polley has been refreshing. I feel respected, heard, a part of the team, and all my coworkers are easy to get along with and work beside. 

3. If you could go back to your first year in undergrad, would you pick the same degree and career trajectory? Why/why not?

I do not think I would change my directory, as I love what I do; however, I wish there was more information and more support while I was going through my studies.

Had I not chosen geology, I probably would have gone into the trade industry. My dad works as an HVAC technician, and that would have inspired me to do some sort of trade.

4. What are the three best things about your job/career? What are three things you would change?

Three Best Things

1.      The connections I make/made. I can confidently say that I have made some lifelong friends and connections through the industry. And even some people I do not talk to often, it is just such a special bond you form with these people, that I never find myself being awkward after not seeing them for a while, and wondering where they are now.

2.      The places I get to see and things I get to experience. The places I have been and seen, and things I have experienced, most people will probably never get the chance to do, or even think of! For example, a helicopter is just a way of transportation for us to get to work, but for others it is a dream and pricey experience.

3.      Work-life balance. I find that my current job allows me to have a nice work-life balance by being on a two week on and two weeks off rotation, with the occasional opportunity to work from home.

Three Things I would Change:

1.      The underlying prejudice of females in the industry. Even though more females are joining, and being recognized, and given opportunity, it is still difficult sometimes to be heard by peers because of gender.

2.      Industry retention. A lot of people end up leaving due to some type of mistreatment, and lots of companies have high turnovers. It would be beneficial for companies to have more exit interviews and interviews during employment to see what is working and what is not. Change is a good thing, and most companies are just stuck in their old ways.

3.      More support with mental health. As someone who struggles with mental health, it is not always easy to reach out, especially if there are no resources available.

5. Why is gender balance in mineral exploration/mining/geoscience important to you?

It is important to me because, well, I am a female. I want to advance in my career because I believe I have a lot to offer, and sometimes I feel like I am given the cold shoulder because a man with similar qualities, or sometimes even less, is interested, or asks the same question. I want to be treated as an equal, and be judged for my experience, intelligence, what I can offer.

6. Why should it be important for everyone?

It should be important for everyone because each person can bring something different to the company or project. Whether it is what you are looking for or not is a different story, but it is always worth hearing what someone has to say. Inclusive environments tend to be more respectful, collaborative, and supportive, and improving well-being. It ensures that talent, curiosity, and expertise are valued regardless of gender, creating a professional environment where people can contribute fully, feel respected, and see a future for themselves in the industry.

7.  What advice would you give to young women starting a career in mineral exploration/mining/geoscience?

KNOW YOUR WORTH AND STAND UP FOR YOURSELF!!! I have learned these things the hard way. Do not settle for a job that you do not like. Do not settle for mistreatment because you are afraid to say something. Do not be afraid to speak your mind about an idea you have. Do not be afraid to ask for that raise. Ask for more, be involved. A book that really helped me through some tough times, is, “The Let Them Theory,” by Mel Robbins. There is a section about employment, and stress at work, and I find it valuable for those times where things “just don’t work out.”

8. What motivates you and keeps you busy outside of mineral exploration/mining/geoscience?

On my spare time, I like to hike and go for walks. When the weather is not nice enough, I like to work out at home. I have recently started a “side hustle” of crocheting too! So that occupies a lot of my time. I really love to travel, and try to take at least one trip a year, even if it is a simple weekend getaway somewhere. I also love spending time with friends and family, even if its just staying in and having a movie night. Cooking and baking have become a hobby of mine and my fiancés. We like to try new recipes at home and trying new restaurants to eat at and have drinks.