Emily Jepson, P.Eng.

In May, Emily Jepson, P.Eng., was presented with a CIM-Bedford Canadian Young Mining Leaders Award. The award highlights the exceptional achievement and potential of young Canadian mining leaders.

Early Life and Education

I grew up with two older brothers in Estevan, Saskatchewan and attended Estevan Comprehensive High School. My dad worked at the Boundary Dam coal mine near Estevan. I chose to major in engineering because I liked learning and problem-solving, and it seemed like a good fit. I liked the idea of a job that could evolve as you gain experience, and I am interested in the environment. I attended the University of Regina; it was close to my hometown and that appealed to me. I had a great experience and met lots of great people whom I developed strong friendships with which helped get me through the years of schooling.

Career

I have been at Poplar River Mine since I graduated from university in 2005. I have gained lots of experience over the years as the on-site environmental engineer. Earlier in my career, I was often in the field learning about how the mine site worked and what my role was as the environmental lead. The job always involved AutoCAD work, report writing, land administration, reclamation tracking, and miscellaneous tasks, but over the last few years, the regulatory component has become a focus. I am involved in reviewing the changing carbon policies that are being developed at the federal and provincial levels and other legislation that will affect the coal mines in Alberta and Saskatchewan. In the last year, I have transitioned from focusing on the Poplar River Mine to helping support other sites in my role as Manager of Environment and Regulatory Affairs. I am enjoying the challenges the new role is allowing me to take on.

I have always worked in a very small engineering department that allowed me the opportunity to work in many different jobs. There are day-to-day tasks that need to be completed, but there are always new tasks from operations or the senior leadership team to complete that help with additional development at the site. I also have had the opportunity to work with the Saskatchewan Mining Association (SMA) over the years on the Environment Committee, which has provided great professional opportunities outside of the mine site but within the mining and regulatory community.

The people I have worked with on-site and within the company over the years have really helped guide me in my career. At a small site, you really rely on each other, and you pick up additional skills by being around great people. I have learned from other members of the SMA Environment Committee. They have a lot of varied knowledge and experience, and they are always willing to share. My family has always been very supportive of me in my career as well.

“Winning the CIM-Bedford Canadian Young Mining Leaders Award still feels surreal and is truly a great honour. The recognition is amazing, and it is a reminder to me to take a step back to reflect on my career and how it has evolved over the years and to be proud of where I am now.”

Interests

I love to spend time with my family. Most of the time you will find me watching my children playing sports or out on the golf course.