ARVIAT/CORAL HARBOUR - Students in Arviat and Coral Harbour completed Nunavut Arctic College's Introduction to Mine Training Program earlier this month.

The 16week course introduced students to the mineral exploration and mining industry.

The program focused on prospecting, mineral and rock identification, open pit and underground mining methods, mineral processing, first aid and safety training, and the life skills necessary for a successful career in the mining industry.

The program was funded by Kivalliq Partners in Development and the Nunavut Mine Training Roundtable.

Iain Mitchell instructed the Arviat course, while Denise Lockett was in charge in Coral.

Mitchell said after completing the course, the students were encouraged to map their future career path and the education requirements to achieve their goals.

He said most students have already applied for positions in the industry and one has already started work.

"Other students have opted for further training as a precursor to entering trades programs or heavy-equipment-operator training, depending on their area of interest," said Mitchell.

"The course used local knowledge and resources to bring mining and mineral exploration into the classroom in both Arviat and Coral.

"Communities have a lot of resources that can add value to handsontraining programs like this one."

Mitchell said there is a long tradition of prospecting in Arviat, and local prospectors shared their expertise with the class.

He said Arviatbased workers in the mining industry were also generous in sharing their knowledge of the working world.

"They were very positive examples to students considering a career in the industry.

"We were also able to take advantage of the Department of Economic Development and Transportation's Prospector's Course, which was delivered by Kivalliq district geologist Mike Beauregard."

Lockett said the Hamlet of Coral Harbour was generous enough to allow members of the local fire department to teach students proper techniques for the use of fire extinguishers.

"It was surprising to some students, just how heavy a large fire extinguisher is," said Lockett.

"Elders from the community came into class to discuss rocks and minerals, as well as possible ways to translate exploration and mining terminology.

"Both Iain (Mitchell) and I wish our students the best in their future career in mining or continued education."

Arctic College director of trades and technology David Ittinuar said the program was a success.

"Arctic College looks forward to the continued delivery of the 16-week program in the future, as well as the 30-week certificate program," said Ittinuar.