With first production at BHP’s Jansen potash project fast approaching in late 2026, we’re focused on building a long-term workforce that reflects the communities we’re fortunate to be a part of in Saskatchewan, Canada. 

We partnered with Canadian non-profit Women Building Futures (WBF) to develop the BHP Trades Readiness Program – a curriculum for women new to the industry that equips them with the skills required for a vibrant trades career. 

During March, we were delighted to celebrate the graduation of nine of these women, who join over 30 others in Saskatchewan that have completed apprenticeship programs supported by BHP since early 2022. 

Across nine weeks of combined classroom and practical studies, participants were immersed in tool handling, electrical work, heavy duty equipment operation, instrumentation and industrial millwrighting. 

Born and raised in Saskatchewan, recent graduate Elizabeth Banman said she was delighted to be part of the first female Trades Readiness Program cohort in the province. 

“By having these doors open for us, we're able to hold them open for women behind us to follow in our footsteps – letting them know that it is okay to go into trades,” Elizabeth said. 

“I feel like this has been an incredible nine weeks, and I've learned so much, and I am very excited to start my next chapter of my career,” Elizabeth continued. 

Carol Moen, President and CEO, Women Building Futures, believes that the organization’s mission made BHP a natural partner. 

“WBF’s mission is economic security for women, and we predominately work to remove barriers between unemployed and under-employed women’s success, in this case, in the trades,” Carol said. 

“BHP is a company that is obviously focused on an inclusive type of work environment and really does understand the value of having diverse people in the workforce,” Carol concluded. 

Following a ceremony event, the graduates moved onto interviews with contractors at the Jansen site as a precursor to securing employment in one of their qualified trades, as part of a broader introduction to the resources industry. 

A new cohort has commenced their studies in Lanigan, neighbouring the Jansen site, and is expected to graduate in June. 

Learn more about BHP’s potash project as well as career and contractor opportunities at: bhp.com/betterfuture