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Diana Ojeda

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


I must give all the credit to my father! I was on 10th grade, I had no idea what I wanted to study, I just knew I didn’t want to be stuck to a desk. While on a work trip in Chile, my dad met a group of geologists, and he was struck by how knowledgeable and essential they were to the mine site he visited. When he came back, he asked me, ‘’What about studying geology?’’ I had no idea what on earth that was, so I turned the most reliable source of information, Wikipedia (sarcasm), and within the first paragraphed I was completely sold. I had no doubts after that, and I’m still grateful to be in this career today.


Describe your career progression since finishing undergrad.


I graduated in May 2020, right at the height of the pandemic. Breaking into the industry was challenging, but through the Engineers and Geoscientists BC (EGBC) Mentorship program, I connected with an incredible mentor, Abby Wright. She recommended me for a soil sampling position at Barkerville Gold Mines (now Osisko Development), where I spent about two years in multiple roles: soil sampler, geotechnician, logging geologist, drill manager, and resource modeller. It was an invaluable learning experience, both professionally and personally.

 

After that I worked at Equity Consultants as a geologist/project geologist in remote camps and mine sites. In 2023, I applied to Teck Resources Limited, where I’ve been working here since. Throughout my career, I have been lucky to have amazing female mentors like Emily Fenton, Tezla Hayduk, Carly Smythe, Natalie Cook, Kate Gleadow, Steph LaRocque, Maggie Laymen, Lauren Scatlenbury and many others who have greatly influenced my journey.  



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


Absolutely yes! I don’t regret any of my decisions. This career has taken me to breathtaking places and introduced me to people from all walks of life. I’d choose this path all over again without hesitation.


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


The best parts of my career are being surrounded by nature and incredible views, enjoying the unique experience of camp life (including the food!), and the constant learning that comes with each project.

 

If I could change three things, it would be having gender equality, spreading awareness of women safety in camp, and placing a greater emphasis on mental health support for those working in remote settings.


 

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


This topic is deeply important to me because, as an immigrant and a woman in this industry, I know firsthand the challenges of navigating stereotypes and systemic biases. I have seen and experienced situations that no one should have to go through.

I envision a space where everyone, regardless of gender, race, or ethnicity, has an equal seat at the table, bringing diverse perspectives that only strengthen our industry.

We all bring something unique and true balance can transform our industry for the better.


Why should it be important for everyone?


Because we all want to work in a place where we want to feel safe. The industry has evolved tremendously over the past 10, 20, even 50 years ago but so has society. There are far more opportunities for women, minorities, and other underrepresented communities but it is not enough. To keep advancing, mining culture needs to reach a point where everyone feels sage, included and motivated to work in this field. A balanced, diverse workforce is essential for fostering that kind of inclusive environment.


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


Seek out strong mentors and be ready to learn from everyone around you. This industry isn’t made up solely of geologists; there are also cooks, core cutters, pad builders, camp managers and more. They each bring valuable experience and knowledge that go beyond what you’ll find in a classroom. Be confident in your questions and opinions but keep an open mind and get ready to connect with people from all walks of life, you’ll learn more than you ever expected.



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


Prioritizing my mental and physical health. I come from a family that is all about ‘’work, work, work’’ but lately I am focusing on creating balance by nurturing my mental health and social life. While I love my job and career, I believe it’s essential to keep learning and experiencing life beyond this field.




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