Innovation thrives at the intersection of academia and industry—and Saskatchewan is proving just how powerful that connection can be. With a rich store of mineral resources, a robust base of global mining companies, and forward-thinking educational institutions, the province is a leader in applied mining research.
At the forefront of this collaborative ecosystem is Saskatchewan Polytechnic and its Digital Integration Centre of Excellence (DICE). We spoke with Terry Peckham, Director of DICE, to learn how partnerships between post-secondary institutions and mining companies are driving cutting-edge advancements in sustainability, efficiency, and talent development.
Peckham points to specialized events as key drivers of industry-academic collaboration. “One of the best events to participate in Saskatchewan is IDEATE,” he shares.
IDEATE brings together industry leaders and researchers to solve sector-specific challenges. Mining companies identify their most pressing needs, which are then issued as calls for academic proposals. Researchers pitch solutions, fostering actionable innovation through focused dialogue and development.
Originally initiated by the University of Saskatchewan and International Minerals Innovation Institute (IMII), the AIMday model has since been adapted and expanded by the IMII into the annual IDEATE event, scheduled for May 13 this year. The day will spotlight solutions to seven key industry challenges—offering a glimpse into the future of mining in Saskatchewan.
This year, PrairiesCan is supporting the partnership between IMII and the Prairie Polytechnic Innovation Network Accelerating Commercialization for Local Ecosystems (P2INACLE), to promote collaborative problem-solving on some of mining’s most difficult challenges.
Sustainability remains a priority for Saskatchewan’s mining sector, with many companies working toward net-zero targets. Peckham highlighted several standout projects between Saskatchewan Polytechnic and Industry members:
These projects demonstrate how research can lead to both greener practices and stronger economic performance.
One standout collaboration between Saskatchewan Polytechnic and Cameco used AI to optimize uranium cavity planning. By automating cavity modeling, mines can extract more ore, reduce waste, and cut energy use.
“The cavity shape is critical. Mining companies don’t want to leave uranium behind, but they must maintain a certain shape for stability,” explains Peckham. “This AI advancement has taken a job that used to take three weeks and has dropped it down to hours.”
Thanks to this innovation, the amount of ore that’s extracted has increased while decreasing the amount of waste and the energy consumption of the devices used to extract it. Academic and Industry collaboration in action.
In a fast-paced and ever-evolving environment such as mining, companies are always looking for people who can embrace an adaptable mindset. This includes the ability to work with emerging technologies, adopt new processes, and constantly strive to improve.
Terry references the AI uranium project to explain. “Students can easily find work following their education, especially in mining”, shares Peckham. “So, to incentivize further education, Saskatchewan Polytechnic works with university professors to attract graduate-level students by offering a great salary for employment that allows them to complete graduate student projects”.
As students develop highly specialized skills in cutting-edge technologies, mining companies are motivated to retain students following their studies, as they’ve become foremost experts in their technology.
“There’s a strong and proven relationship between developing new technology, hiring a graduate who was core to developing the technology, and bringing them into the staff to integrate it into their company,” Peckham adds.
This innovation supports talent development. Saskatchewan Polytechnic offers incentives for students to pursue further studies through applied research placements, often in partnership with industry and universities. These students frequently transition into full-time roles, bringing cutting-edge knowledge directly into mining operations.
As Saskatchewan continues to strengthen its position as a global leader in mining innovation, the province’s applied research ecosystem stands as a powerful example of what’s possible when academia and industry work hand in hand. From cutting-edge technologies to sustainable practices and workforce development, the collaboration between institutions like Saskatchewan Polytechnic and forward-thinking mining companies is delivering real-world impact. With continued investment, strategic partnerships, and a shared commitment to progress, Saskatchewan is well on its way to shaping the future of mining—locally and beyond.
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IMII’s mission is to connect the right people to the right resources that allow new ideas to enter the Saskatchewan minerals industry. Through events, projects, and partnerships, we proudly leverage strong industry and academia connections to transform exploration and extraction, foster sustainable practices, and drive economic growth.
We’re excited to host our annual IDEATE event on May 13th, 2025, and hear from students and research professionals on the seven industry-identified research needs! Learn more about IDEATE here.
IMII’s office is situated on Treaty 6 Territory and the Homeland of the Métis. Treaty 6 encompasses the lands of the Cree, Dakota, Nakota, Saulteaux (SO-TOE) and the Homeland of the Métis Nation. We pay our respect to the First Nations and Métis ancestors of this place and reaffirm our enduring relationship with one another and recognize the importance of reconciliation in building a shared future.
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