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  • Cheyenne Sica, MSc

Early-career Geoscientist: Cheyenne Sica


Education: BScH - Queen's University Geological Sciences, MSc - University of Toronto, Earth Sciences

Past positions: various geologist positions in mining and exploration for gold and base metals - in Canada and in Asia

Current position: Geologist with Terralogic Exploration

I'm currently working in a copper mine in northern British Columbia. It's beautiful landscape here! We are currently working with the mine to develop where the open pits should expand to and where the mining infrastructure (waste rock and tailings pond) should be built. The idea is to find areas without any copper in the rock to store waste things, and to expand the open pits to where there is high grade (large amounts) of copper.

Why did you choose a career in earth science?

I chose a career in earth science because I love being outside, nature, and exploring new places. Working in mining and exploration takes you to remote 'off the grid' areas and I love learning about where resources (for example gold, copper or

silver) are inside the earth and why.

How did you get into the job that you're in now?

The mining and exploration industry in Canada is small, and I usually get new contracts by networking and recommendations from old bosses and colleagues.

What is your advice for anyone considering an education or career in earth science?

Earth Sciences is a broad field that encompasses many areas and disciplines. Whether you are interested in the environment, volcanoes and natural hazards, oceans and waterways, mountains, or natural resources, just to name a view, then earth sciences might be for you! I think good advice is to study something you are passionate about. You need passion to be successful in both industry and academia in earth sciences. In industry things change quickly and the job market changes greatly with the changing market and economy.

What is something early-career geoscientists can do to make themselves more likely to get a job?

Building your network is one of the best ways to get jobs, so I recommend getting involved. Attend conferences and events, join groups such as the SEG, keep your LinkedIn profile up to date!

What is your favourite place that your work has taken you?

My favorite place that geology has taken me is Myanmar, a country in between India and Thailand. I was working in gold, lead and zinc mines while I was there. It was special because I lived in an entirely different culture and learned what life is like for people in undeveloped nations. Certainly a change from the Northern Ontario forests to the tropic jungles in Asia! I made special friends and memories that I will take with me forever.

Photos provided by Cheyenne Sica.

Views expressed in blog posts reflect those of the author, and not necessarily those of the CFES.

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