Coal Award - Winner 2001
Jim Popowich, FCIMCalgary, Alberta
“In recognition of his outstanding contributions to Canada’s coal industry through participation in CIM, the Coal Association of Canada, the Alberta Chamber of Resources, and the University of Alberta Mining Advisory Committee.”
Jim Popowich became a member of the Saskatoon Branch of CIM in 1967. Over the ensuing 30 years, he has held executive positions with CIM Branches in British Columbia, Alberta and Saskatchewan, and at the National level.
Since his early years with CIM, Jim has been well known for promoting the interface between economics and the environment for the good of the coal industry and society. He has also continually promoted productivity improvements and technological innovations at the operations level, which has benefited the coal industry as a whole.
As a staunch advocate of supporting the communities where we live and work, he believes in the adage, ’lead by example.’ Throughout the years, Jim has supported many community initiatives, giving his time and attention to helping the communities where he and his wife, Laverne, have made their home. Jim is currently Vice-President, Operations, for Fording Coal Ltd. at its head office in Calgary.