Cambridge Bay man to receive graduate degree
Kerry McCluskey
Northern News Services
Cambridge Bay (Feb 05/01) - A love of rocks has led a Cambridge Bay man to a career he hopes will take him see the world and help build Nunavut.
Thomas Hadlari, 26, is completing his Ph.D in geology at Carleton University. Destined for a job in the mining industry, Hadlari said when his studies wrapped up, he hoped to find work around the world, perhaps in Australia or South America.
"Eventually I'll come back to Nunavut to work, but ... I want to see more of the world," said Hadlari.
He's been studying in Calgary for a year to take courses not offered at Carleton.
"If people are worried about me not coming back to Nunavut, I can't stand working in the trees. When I come back to Canada, I'll be working in the Arctic for sure," said Hadlari, adding he wasn't sure what role he wanted to pursue in the territory's emerging mining industry.
Youth like Hadlari are important to Nunavut not only as role models to younger people, but also in the crucial role they play in building the territory.
Hadlari said it was important for younger generations to get trained in all fields.
"It's extremely important to get young people trained. There are positions in science, in management, banking and accounting. We need to fill a whole government."
Hadlari has been fortunate in that the homesickness he experienced didn't prevent him from targeting a career requiring a lengthy education. For many youth in the territory, the idea of being away from home for several years is a tough hurdle to jump.
"The length of time away from home is an issue for me," explained Hadlari.
"I missed a large part of my brother's childhood and I miss my parents immensely. I wouldn't say I regret it. It saddens me, but regret it? No, if I had the choice I'd do it again."
