In 2010, the Mining Industry Human Resources Council (MiHR) released the Canadian Mining Industry Employment and Hiring Forecasts (www.mininghrforecasts.ca). Based on new labour market research, the report revealed that 100,000 new workers would be needed to fill positions between 2010-2020. This huge hiring demand is largely a result of a significant retirement rate, an aging workforce and increased mineral production. Also, the fact that many Aboriginal communities are located near Canada's principal producing mines and active mineral exploration projects provides an excellent opportunity for Aboriginal people to not only work in this industry but also provide services to the industry. The relatively young and growing Aboriginal population and the proximity of Aboriginal communities to many mining projects provide the mining industry with unique opportunities to source its future workforce from within these communities. This industry is one of the largest employers of Aboriginal Peoples and offers high wages, transferable skills and on-the-job training. Aboriginal Peoples not only help Canada's minerals and metals sector meet its human resource needs for current and planned mining ventures, but also provide companies with new perspectives and skills.

As a result of the findings of the 2005 report, MiHR has undertaken a number of projects including the development of the Mining Industry Human Resources Guide for Aboriginal Communities. This Guide has been developed as a resource for Aboriginal community organizations, career planners and practitioners, community leaders and individuals. For Aboriginal community organizations, career planners and practitioners, there are examples of existing training programs, highlighting some that are Aboriginal in focus and some that have been created as a result of collaboration with Aboriginal communities. Several initiatives from across the country, that strategically link training to employment through effective Aboriginal human resource strategies and practices, are highlighted. The Guide provides insight into the education and training needs of the mining industry, as well as information on jobs and career opportunities. It includes job profiles of individuals employed in various mineral activities and in positions with a variety of skill requirements.

Many people's image of mining involves practices of half a century ago and methods long abandoned by mining companies. But the realities of modern mining paint a very different picture. Today, a career in mining is a safe and lucrative choice. Canadian miners are trained to be skilled men and women some of whom specialize in computers, robotics, satellite imaging and other technologies. Opportunities span the entire mining sequence: exploration, development, operations and closure/reclamation. Mining offers its workers challenge, adventure, good pay and a great opportunity!