28 August 2026

Why specialized mining education matters more than ever

For nearly two decades, the McGill Professional Development Seminar Series has helped mining professionals deepen their expertise in the areas that have the greatest impact on project success. Hosted by McGill University and supported by CIM and the Society for Mining, Metallurgy & Exploration (SME), the seminars are offered on a first-come, first-served basis.

The 2026 series brings together internationally recognized experts to explore the latest thinking in mine planning, mineral resource evaluation and mining economics.

Whether you're responsible for designing mine plans, evaluating projects, reporting mineral resources or making strategic investment decisions, these seminars provide practical knowledge you can apply immediately.

Learn from the experts shaping modern mining

Unlike broad industry conferences, the McGill seminars are designed to provide an intensive, in-depth learning experience. Over several days, participants work directly with leading academics and industry specialists, exploring real-world case studies, current research and practical applications.

This year's series, Strategic Risk Quantification and Management for Ore Reserves and Mine Planning, focuses on one of the industry's biggest challenges: making better decisions in the face of uncertainty.

Across three seminars, participants will explore how modern digital technologies, quantitative analysis and strategic planning can improve operational and financial outcomes.

Turn technical decisions into business value

Mining professionals make decisions every day that influence project economics.

The Mining Industry Economics and Enterprise Management for Sustainable Returns seminar explores how mineral economics and enterprise management shape long-term project performance. Participants examine topics including asset valuation, project financing, portfolio management, operational strategy, taxation and sustainability, helping bridge the gap between technical decisions and business outcomes.

For engineers, managers and technical leaders, understanding these relationships can lead to stronger investment decisions and more resilient operations.

Build mine plans that account for uncertainty

Traditional mine planning is no longer enough.

The Geostatistical Evaluation of Mineral Resources and their Uncertainty under the New Regulatory Environment seminar focuses on producing resource estimates that are objective, reproducible and compliant with today's reporting standards.

Participants learn modern geostatistical techniques, resource classification methods and conditional simulation workflows while gaining a practical understanding of uncertainty, estimation confidence and regulatory requirements under NI 43-101, SEC Mining Disclosure Rules and JORC.

For professionals involved in resource modelling, mine planning or technical reporting, the seminar provides practical tools for producing more defensible resource estimates.

More than CPD hours

Each seminar is eligible for 19.5 to 32.5 Continuing Professional Development (CPD) hours, helping participants maintain their professional credentials.

More importantly, the knowledge gained extends well beyond certification. Participants leave with practical frameworks, new analytical tools and fresh perspectives they can immediately apply to current projects and future challenges.

Invest in your expertise

As mining continues to evolve, organizations need professionals who can navigate uncertainty, evaluate risk and make informed technical and business decisions.

The McGill Professional Development Seminar Series provides an opportunity to learn from experts, connect with peers and strengthen the knowledge that supports better mining outcomes.

If you're looking to sharpen your expertise, earn CPD hours and bring new ideas back to your organization, this year's seminar series is an investment in both your career and your operation.

Explore the 2026 McGill Professional Development Seminar Series