BHP Potash Academy opens in Saskatchewan

An international potash company and a Saskatchewan college have joined forces to launch a training school for mine employees.

The first cohort of 13 students have already started studies at BHP Potash Academy at Carlton Trail College in Humboldt, Saskatchewan. Trainees are already participating in on-site orientation at BHP's nearby Jansen mine. Classroom studies begin January 20.

This eight-month paid traineeship is designed to equip those new to the mining industry with essential skills required for production or maintenance technician roles. The program includes a mix of classroom and theory learning, as well as practical workshop training for hands-on experience.

Successful trainees will earn a Certificate in Mining Essentials, an Applied Certificate in Industrial Mechanics and permanent, full-time employment at the Jansen mine.

Graham Reynolds, General Manager of Operations, BHP said his company was "excited" and "thrilled" about the new program.

"The launch of Potash Academy is an important milestone that will support the long-term success of Jansen and economic growth and participation in the region. We look forward to working with this great group of trainees who bring diverse experience that they can apply to BHP and the mining industry,” Reynolds said.

Amy Yeager, Carlton Trail College President and CEO said the partnership was "bridging the gap between workforce need, classroom learning and the real-world application of skills."

“We look forward to delivering this unique initiative that will shape the future of both training and industry," Yeager added.

Minister of Advanced Education Ken Cheveldayoff said BHP was a "strong partner" to help develop "a skilled and representative workforce."

“This partnership is a clear demonstration of the success that comes from Saskatchewan post-secondary institutions working with key industry partners to create training opportunities that meet the needs of students and employers in the region," Cheveldayoff said.

The BHP Potash Academy, officially formed in July 2024 by BHP and Carlton Trail College, was created to help kickstart additional career pathways to the mining industry in Saskatchewan. It is an extension of a long-term partnership between BHP and Carlton Trail College that previously delivered pre-apprenticeship and related industry training.

BHP anticipates approximately 5,500 workforce opportunities during construction of the Jansen mine and 900 long-term jobs once operational.

More information on Potash Academy and how to apply can be found at career8.successfactors.com.

BHP is a global resources company with its Canadian operational headquarters in Saskatoon, Saskatchewan and global business development headquarters in Toronto. BHP has a globa workforce of approximately 90,000 people working in locations across Canada, Australia, Asia, the UK, US and Latin America.

BHP produces commodities essential for global decarbonization, economic development and food security including copper, nickel, iron ore, steelmaking coal.

Carlton Trail College is a post-secondary institution in East-Central Saskatchewan that emphasizes innovation, collaboration, and community engagement. The college offers a range of academic programs, workforce training, and educational services. The college is expanding its offerings through the development of a state-of-the-art trades training facility.