International Minerals Innovation Institute

The Mining Futures Award scholarship, valued at $12,000, is designed to help undergraduate students currently enrolled in one of three Mining Engineering Options at the University of Saskatchewan cover most of the costs for tuition, books, instruments and fees.

Makayla Scheller was announced as the first winner of the award at the College of Engineering’s 61st Awards Ceremony last night.

Makayla is currently in her 3rd year of the geological engineering program at the University of Saskatchewan (U of S) and is enrolled in the mining option. Makayla is honing her organizational and leadership skills through the Geological Engineering Student Society, attending CIM Saskatoon Branch dinners, and taking on the role of VP External Communications for the CIM Saskatoon Student Chapter. Participating in these activities have increased her knowledge on the different aspects of the mining industry and practice networking with members of the industry.

“This award will have a large impact on my education because it removes the stress of the costs associated with going to university,” she states. “Receiving the IMII Mining Futures scholarship is a wonderful reward for the hard work I put forward in my academics, and it is a reminder to continue to be diligent and always do my best. I am interested in pursuing a career in the mining industry because I like hands-on work. As I enjoy the outdoors, I would like to get a job in a northern, remote mine. This summer, I enjoyed the opportunity to work in Northern Saskatchewan for the Saskatchewan Geological Survey (SGS).”

IMII hosted a supper on February 28 to recognize and celebrate Makayla. Joining us were her family and representatives from BHP, Mosaic, and Nutrien.

The IMII started their scholarship programs to give students the financial support they need to pursue a post‐secondary education that will carry them into a career in Saskatchewan’s minerals industry.

On behalf of the minerals industry, congratulations and we look forward to working with you in the future.