In 1992, the Government of Canada designated October as Women's History Month, marking the beginning of an annual month-long celebration of the outstanding achievements of women throughout Canada's history.

As an industry that has typically remained male dominated, it is important to emphasize the developments that have been made as well as the goals of the future.

Gender diversity and inclusion is a PDAC priority. Supporting Women’s History Month is a way to celebrate the achievements of all women in the industry, as well as the progress being made by mineral exploration and development overall.

Meet our Women's History Month participants below. 

Mary Louise_exploration photo

Mary Louise Hill

Mary Louise is a Professor of Geology at Lakehead University with more than 40 years of experience as an accomplished field geologist.

200166_PearTree_LisaHeadshot_Web

Lisa Davis

Lisa is the CEO at PearTree Securities where she oversees strategic direction and is responsible for the legal aspects of PearTree Canada's business. 

Chantal Jolette

Chantal Jolette 

Chantal is the President, CEO and Principal Geologist at Qualitica Consulting Inc.

Jessie Liu-Ernsting

Jessie Liu-Ernsting

Jessie is the Principal Consultant at Keystone Resource Solutions Corp. and Independent Director at Aston Bay Holdings.

Nicole 2



Nicole Sampson

Nicole is the Convention Director at PDAC, leading an all-female team that is responsible for bringing the PDAC Convention to life every year. 

Viola Mac Millan 1944-1964




Viola R. MacMillan

Viola is PDAC’s longest-serving president and maker of many milestones for women in our industry ... we even named an award named after her.

MaryAnn Crichton_Photo 2




MaryAnn Crichton

MaryAnn has been a PDAC member for over 20 years is currently a Managing Director and Senior Partner at Hatch.