Okane Consultants has industry experts in different fields who bring a collaborative, multi-disciplinary approach to mine closure planning.Provided
Larisa Doucette says one of the things she likes most about working with Okane Consultants is that no two days are ever the same.
Doucette is a senior geoscientist with Okane, which helps mining companies worldwide to return disturbed land responsibly and safely at the end of a mine’s life cycle. Her responsibilities, however, are more varied than her job title might indicate.
She manages client relationships, is a project coordinator and provides senior technical direction and review. She also coordinates Okane’s research and development program and serves as the liaison when the company collaborates with external partners, including academic and industry research institutions.
“The variety is one of the reasons I’ve stayed so long,” says Doucette, who joined Okane in 2011 in Saskatoon, at Okane’s head office. “New projects, new challenges, new locations – there’s always something different to keep you inspired and engaged.”
After graduating with a degree in environmental science, Doucette did academic research but decided it wasn’t a good fit. Today, she still describes joining Okane as the best decision she’s ever made.
“Growing up, I loved spending time with my family in northern Saskatchewan and ever since, I’ve wanted to do my part to preserve the environment,” Doucette says. “Okane’s purpose is to help create a better tomorrow. Working to make a difference aligns with what I want to accomplish.”
Okane has industry experts in many different fields who bring a collaborative, multi-disciplinary approach to mine closure planning. They work with clients, government and communities to develop customized plans that take numerous factors into account, from the specific conditions at each mine site to the desired end result. Some projects also include post-closure monitoring and maintenance.
Miriam Clark, vice-president of global strategy and business growth, says Okane attracts people who are passionate about leaving the world a better place. “Our teams are eager to solve challenging problems and are committed to sustainable social and environmental outcomes,” she adds.
Clark says the company’s focus on innovation means they’re continually developing new techniques and technologies to help clients achieve their goals. Okane shares many of its solutions to help advance the entire mine planning and closure industry, she adds.
At the same time, the mining sector is changing as mining companies increasingly plan for the entire life cycle of their projects. Clark says beginning with the end in mind can help prevent problems and save money in the long run.
“We have a saying at Okane: “It’s never too soon – and it’s never too late – to start thinking about mine closure,” Clark says, noting the company works with clients at all stages in the mining life cycle.
While Okane is looking to grow the business, it isn’t interested in growth for growth’s sake, she says. Instead, the goal is to increase the opportunities for employees to do the exciting and challenging work that aligns with Okane’s vision for a better tomorrow, Clark says.
Employees are spread across the globe in locations such as Canada, the United States, Australia and New Zealand. Although each employee has a home office, some spend part of their time in the field at mine sites, many in remote locations.
Still, Okane, which is built on teamwork, has always fostered a sense of community among its employees. Just ask Doucette, who now works in Brisbane. Most of her tenure has been in Saskatoon, but she’s also worked in the Calgary and Perth offices.
“Each office feels the same,” she says. “There’s a very inclusive culture where people are welcoming, friendly and always willing to help.”
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