The mining industry is undergoing one of the biggest transformations in its history. The world is demanding more of the critical metals and minerals needed to produce the clean energy of the future.

The Don Lindsay Teck Award in Mining Engineering was created to support the next generation of mining engineers—who will shape how the mining industry responds. Established through a $1 million endowment from Teck Resources Limited, the award provides annual, renewable scholarships for students at UBC’s Norman B. Keevil (NBK) Institute of Mining Engineering. It offers crucial support for those who will help lead Canada’s transition to a cleaner economy—and advance the university’s commitment to creating solutions for the planet.

The award honours Don Lindsay, long-time UBC supporter and former Teck President and CEO, whose career reflects responsible resource development, global leadership and a deep dedication to mentoring emerging talent.

“At this phase of my life, it’s about giving back,” he says. “Sponsoring students is a meaningful way to support the next generation—not just financially, but through mentoring and helping them navigate their early careers.”

For Emma Fontaine, one of this year’s student recipients, the award affirmed her desire to help mining become more sustainable.

“Sometimes you feel like you’re shouting into the void,” she says. “But being recognized for wanting to make mining more sustainable gave me confidence that this is where the industry is headed—and that there’s space for people like me to help drive that change.”

For Jasmin Basta, the recognition brought confidence, connection and a sense of belonging.

“Being recognized in honour of someone so accomplished makes you feel like the hard work is paying off,” she says. “Meeting Don Lindsay in person was amazing … I’m really grateful he saw potential in me.”

Emma and Jasmin are part of a growing cohort of women entering mining engineering—who have historically been underrepresented in the field. Both describe their experiences as welcoming and full of opportunity, and they are proud to help shape a more inclusive future for the profession.

The NBK Mining Institute’s values—environmental stewardship, innovation and community partnership—shape their learning, from coursework on sustainability to classes centred on Indigenous engagement. These experiences prepare students to contribute to healthier lives and communities across Canada.

Beyond individual impact, the award reflects Teck’s longstanding partnership with UBC. Including this new endowment, Teck has now provided $12 million to the Faculty of Applied Science, strengthening research, teaching and hands-on learning. More than 200 Applied Science students have completed co-op placements at Teck since 2017, and hundreds of the company’s employees are UBC alumni.

For Don, the link between mining education and Canada’s climate ambitions is clear: “Mining is vital to everything we do,” he says. “If you can’t grow it, you have to extract it. These students will make a real contribution—to our economy, to climate solutions, and to society as a whole.”

That sense of purpose resonates with the award recipients.

“I want to have a positive impact on the industry and the environment,” Emma says. “Being affiliated with someone like Don Lindsay shows me it’s possible—and that I should keep pushing.”

Jasmin adds: “Nothing will change if we don’t join the industry and help shape it. This award inspires me to do more—for myself, for the environment, and for the communities mining touches.”

The Don Lindsay Teck Award in Mining Engineering reflects a powerful belief: that when we invest in emerging engineers today, we help build a healthier planet and a truly thriving society for all.