Case Study Pages:
Diamond mining in Canada
Key focus - Employee relations in action
EKATI training program promotes sustainable new careers in the emerging Canadian underground diamond mining industry.
At BHP Billiton's EKATI Diamond Mine in Canada's North West Territories a training program has been established for underground miners. The program is aimed at providing opportunities for Northern Aboriginal people to participate in the growing number of new jobs associated with underground diamond mining.
Each trainee receives eight weeks on-site training consisting of approximately 80 percent hands-on training in the field and 20 percent classroom training, including one-on-one and computer-based training. Two qualified underground trainers provide the hands-on and classroom training and ensure all candidates are closely monitored and evaluated as they progress through the program. Trainees are guaranteed to be hired full-time if they successfully complete the training program.
BHP Billiton adopts a proactive approach to skills development. Jobs are created, including the employment of Indigenous peoples and the socio-economic sustainability strand relating to employees and equal opportunity is put into practice. In addition, employees can develop career paths as successful trainees are encouraged to participate in further training programs.