The Goodman School of Mines at Laurentian University, in partnership with Cambrian College and community collaborators, are wrapping up the Outland Youth Employment Program (OYEP) STEM & Mining Experience, which took place from August 4-7, 2025. This transformative event welcomed 25 Indigenous youth interns for an immersive exploration of science, technology, engineering, and mathematics (STEM), mining innovation, and Indigenous knowledge in the heart of Greater Sudbury. The interns joined the program from their home communities, including:
- Timiskaming First Nation
- Apitipi Anicinapek Nation
- Attawapiskat and Attawapiskat First Nation
- Fort Albany and Fort Albany First Nation
- Mattagami First Nation
- Moose Cree and Moose Cree First Nation
- Wikwemikong First Nation
- Beausoleil First Nation
- Naujaat, Nunavut - Inuit Repulse Bay
Previously hosted in Timmins (ON), the 2025 experience was reimagined to spotlight Sudbury's global strengths in mining, post-secondary education, and Indigenous culture. The event offered hands-on learning and mentorship aimed at inspiring the next generation of Indigenous leaders in STEM and resource industries.
Key highlights included:
- STEM workshops with Laurentian's Bharti School of Engineering and Computer Science, Harquail School of Earth Sciences, and Cambrian College faculty;
- Industry engagement through presentations by Vale, the Ontario Mining Association, and the Ministry of Energy and Mines;
- A unique underground innovation tour at NORCAT's Fecunis Mine, sponsored by CIM Sudbury;
- An Indigenous-focused planetarium session on star systems, featuring Science North's immersive film Star Stories, narrated by renowned Ininew (Cree) astronomer, star knowledge keeper, and author Wilfred Buck, followed by a discussion led by Laurentian's Indigenous Student & Community Engagement Coordinator, Paskwamoostoosi Lightning;
- Cultural programming including traditional meals, an opening and closing Sacred Fire ceremony, and activities led by Laurentian's Indigenous Sharing and Learning Centre.
"This collaboration was about more than education it was about connection," said Nicole Tardif, Program Coordinator, Goodman School of Mines. "Through cultural sharing, cutting-edge science, and real-world experiences, we hoped to empower OYEP participants to envision futures in both education and the mining industry."
"We're very honoured to host the students for this special summer camp," said Kim Crane, interim dean of Cambrian's School of Skills Training and Engineering Technology. "With strong future job potential in mining, skilled trades, and engineering technology, we aim to ensure that Indigenous youth are informed, supported, and encouraged to pursue these rewarding career pathways. This summer camp is a great way to showcase the well-paying and rewarding careers that could be in their futures."
OYEP interns lived on Laurentian's campus, experiencing campus life firsthand and engaging with students, faculty, Elders, and industry leaders.
This program underscored the vital role of Indigenous youth in shaping the future of resource development and technological innovation across Ontario and beyond. This unique experience not only exposed participants to new career paths but empowered them with the knowledge and connections to become leaders in these critical fields.
