Could you give us an update on the various companies that make up the Ionic Technology Group?

We are celebrating our 25th anniversary, which has meant lots of activity. Ionic Mechatronics has been busy with copper stripping systems, uranium drumming systems, and creating tools to improve safety in mining operations. Variant Mining Technologies has been focused on supplying underground truck loading systems globally, and we have seen some exciting work in Mongolia and Mexico. Black Rock Engineering is engaged in multiple projects for notable customers, and Safe Box has grown in recent years. We have also acquired Desom, which focuses on tank house ventilation and environmental improvements in challenging environments. Lastly, Ionic Automation is involved in the automotive and medical sectors, with projects like a syringe assembly machine and fuel cell equipment.

Are there any specific services that are popular among your customers right now?

Three key trends stand out right now. First is the rise in demand for improved safety systems, especially our safety-rated truck loading systems and SafeBox automated safety isolation systems. Second, there has been an increase in uranium drumming due to the rising interest in the metal. Lastly, there is significant interest in our new tools designed to enhance safety by removing people from dangerous workspaces, like our remote reamer cutter that allows for safer operations when drill rods get stuck.

Can you share examples of collaboration within the Ionic Technology Group and with external partners?

Collaboration has always been at the core of what we do at the Ionic Technology Group. One of our major product lines, Variant’s truck-loading system, was a result of collaboration with Vale’s Creighton mine during Ionic’s early days. Over the past 25 years, we have introduced many enhancements, and it is now the most advanced truck loading system in the world.

Within the Ionic Technology Group, we often share personnel between companies when needed, whether it is for extra capacity or leveraging expertise. Every project involves some form of collaboration, both internally and externally.

Recently, we had a mine operator, a mobile equipment company, and our engineers working together to kick off a new project. The mine operator had specific needs, and the mobile equipment company needed our help with the customizations. By working together, we will find solutions to make mining safer and more productive. 

What are your thoughts on increasing female representation in mining and leadership roles?

I was involved in founding the Sudbury chapter of Women in Science and Engineering (WISE) about 25 years ago. Back then, we were excited to know there were 20 female engineers in Sudbury; now, there are many more, which is encouraging. Although women are still in the minority, I am seeing more young women enter the field, which is wonderful to see. 

I am also pleased that there are more female CEOs in mining these days. We are trying to arrange a get-together. 

Which markets are you currently focusing on?

We are expanding more in areas like uranium, where we have seen growing demand for our drumming systems. We initially thought uranium drumming would be a one-off, but we have now completed several of these systems. We are seeing repeat orders of our SafeBox systems, and we are excited about that. Additionally, we are looking into new ways to complement our tank house infrastructure work, thanks to our acquisition of Desom. Our R&D efforts are very customer-driven, often stemming from a customer’s problem that we aim to solve.

Our geographical focus shifts over time. Right now, we are heavily involved in Mongolia, and we are also working in Mexico, the southern US, South America, and parts of Africa. Europe is not active for us right now, but that could change quickly. We are always open to new opportunities, often driven by customer requests.

What does the future look like for the Ionic Technology Group?

Our future is centered around solving difficult problems for our customers. We continue to focus on expanding our reach within areas like uranium, tankhouse infrastructure, and mining automation and safety. Our approach has always been collaborative, and we intend to keep working closely with our customers to provide solutions that meet their unique needs.