In 2024, New Gold partnered with Confederation College’s Fort Frances campus to support women pursuing careers in skilled trades.
The Women in Trades Program includes a 13-week classroom component followed by an 8-week on-the-job placement, providing hands-on experience.
New Gold welcomed Arial Shebahgegit-Bruyere and Victoria Brandli to the Rainy River Mine as part of the program. Originally focusing her studies on business, Victoria realized she wanted a more active, hands-on career and enrolled in the program.
“Having so many friendly, experienced mentors to learn from at New Gold was very beneficial and it only further proved to me that I made the right decision to pursue a career in the trades,” she said. “Being determined, having a willingness to learn, get dirty, and work hard, can all lead to a career in trades that you become just as passionate about as I am.”
Following completion of the program, both graduates were hired by Rainy River Mine. Arial joined the Mill Department and Victoria became part of the Mobile Maintenance team.
“We’re committed to advancing women in mining through partnership like this one with Confederation College,” said Brenda Roberts, Human Resources manager at the Rainy River Mine. “It’s all part of our work to create opportunities and foster a more inclusive workforce.”
Victoria encourages other women to be open to careers they may not have considered before.
“Just go for it!” she said. “You never know what you’re capable of until you put the effort forward and try. It may not be for everyone, but it just might be the right career path for you.
