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Our Story
Our Purpose
To connect individuals, drive transformative change, and propel the advancement of women in the mining sector.
WIMBC STRATEGIC PLAN 2023 – 2026
Connect
Create meaningful networking opportunities between mining companies and candidates
Influence
Advocate to industry for gender equity through solution-based initiatives. Facilitate education and outreach to increase women representations
Advance
Create opportunities for women to advance their careers.
Partner with industry to deliver results that drive change
Who we Are
Women in Mining BC (WIMBC) is a non-profit organization driven by volunteers, dedicated to fostering connections and inspiration within the diverse mining workforce in British Columbia.
WIMBC is one of many similar organizations around the world that provides women in the industry with a way to connect with others, share knowledge and experiences, and build relationships that encourage growth and diversity. We also believe in participating in the community and raising awareness about the causes we care about.
Taking action requires involvement from all members of the mining community. Men and women of the industry must work together to implement the strategies that have been identified.
We are often asked, “Why do we need an organization for women in mining?”
Women have encountered common issues and concerns over the years, which have prompted the formation of these many organizations. In recent times, organizations such as WIM (UK) and WIM Canada have published reports on how the mining industry can do more to attract, retain and advance the careers of women in the industry.
WIMBC is taking an active role in sharing these findings so we can move past problem identification to actions that will benefit the industry in the long run.
Our History
Throughout the history of Women in Mining BC, the camaraderie has provided members a haven for discussions spanning the gamut – from geological intricacies to childcare responsibilities, navigating rock stress to maintaining mental well-being. Within our gatherings, many have sought resolutions for both personal and vocational quandaries, finding a supportive community to share insights and solutions.
Our committed volunteers have discovered a platform to nurture new skills, delve into a diverse array of mining career trajectories, establish enduring industry connections, and naturally, broaden their professional network.
While networking remains a pivotal pillar of WIM BC’s legacy, the profound desire to give back to the community and share knowledge has equally fueled our members. This commitment has translated into collaborations with charitable organizations, notable contributions to BC Children’s Hospital through Mining for Miracles, and the hosting of monthly Lunch and Learn sessions – all emblematic of our unwavering dedication to create a meaningful impact beyond the boundaries of our professional realm.
Click here to see our timeline.
Our Roots
Although historically mining has been an industry dominated by men, written and photographic records dating back to the early 1800s exist indicating that women worked in the coal industry in England and Wales; took part in the California, Alaska, Yukon and BC gold rushes; and have prospected throughout North America since the mid-1800s. In fact, one of Canada’s most successful prospectors, the legendary Viola MacMillan, even became the first female president of the Prospectors and Developers Association of Canada in 1944 — a position she held for two decades.
Despite this background, women entering mining-related careers in the 1960s and early 1970s found themselves the objects of some curiosity, as demonstrated by letters sent into advice column gurus Ann Landers (Vancouver Sun, circa 1974-75) and Dear Abby (Toronto Sun, December 1975).