Student, BCIT Mining & Mineral Exploration program.
Katzie First Nation
Trenton Pierre is the first member of his family to enter post secondary education and recently completed his first year of the two-year Mining and Mineral Exploration program at BCIT.
Trenton’s interest in minerals and mining started in high school, where he excelled in geology and archaeology classes. After graduation, he decided to continue his interest and entered the mining program at BCIT. Today, at BCIT, Trenton is discovering he loves the physical geology aspect of the industry and would like to continue his education after BCIT, with plans to attend Montana Tech to major in blasting. Montana Tech is a school known for its focus on the sciences, engineering and technical programs, offering both undergraduate and graduate degrees in mining and engineering.
“I really want to get the best education and the most training I can before I become employed in the industry. That’s why I want to continue my education after I graduate from BCIT. There are so many interesting mining careers but I want one that is outdoors and that involves working with rocks themselves. A blasting major would be perfect for me!”
A career in mining appeals to Trenton because he feels that the industry is on the verge of an upswing, making it a great growth sector where there will be lots of opportunities in the future. It also gives Trenton the opportunity to work outdoors, something that is very important to him.
“I’ve never met anyone working in mineral exploration and mining who doesn’t like what he or she does every day.” Trenton continues, “My cousin is a manager at the Lehigh Quarry on the Sunshine Coast and loves working in the mining industry. I consider him a great role model.”
What advice can Trenton provide other Aboriginal people considering their career options?
“Other young Aboriginal people should keep in mind that there is a much bigger world off the reserve. Stay in school and if you can, get a post-secondary education. Even if you have to leave the home to do so, you can always come back to the reserve. But set career goals, and create opportunities for yourself. It’s so important because this is your life you’re in control of!”