“Mining is a Kowalski thing.” – Jodi Kowalski

The Jansen potash project is part of the beating heart of mining in Saskatchewan, Canada, representing the largest project of its kind not only in the province or Canada but in the world.

With construction at Jansen ramping up and first production just around the corner in 2026, BHP continues to attract local talent in the region. For some, mining is just what they do for a living, but for the Kowalskis, it is a family tradition.

In summer of 2023, Jodi Kowalski was looking for a change. Having invested years in the mining industry in Saskatchewan and honing his craft, Jodi started at BHP as a Lead Hoisting Shaft & Pillar.

Just a month later after getting his new start as part of Team Jansen, Jodi was joined by his daughter, Emily Kowalski, who was looking to follow in his footsteps and seize the opportunity for a new role on-site at Jansen as a Junior Warehouse Coordinator with KDM Constructors.

“Since a young age, I’ve always wanted to be at the mine like my other family members,” said Emily. “As a young female, I found my calling at BHP’s Jansen project. I am really looking forward to being together with my family working on one of the world’s largest potash mines.”

Finally, in April 2024, Jodi and Emily were joined on-site by another family member: Rick Kowalski, a Liaison and Supervisor for Fortis, who is Jodi’s father and Emily’s grandfather. For Rick, the Jansen project signifies another important milestone ─ one of his last stops after an impressive 48-year career in the Saskatchewan mining industry.

“Having three generations working at the same place is incredible, it’s not only a testament to a strong family bond, but it also creates a sense of legacy and tradition,” said Jodi. “Being able to experience this with my daughter and my dad at the Jansen site is truly special, with Rick at the end of his career and Emily at the start of hers, we can cherish these moments and enjoy this unique dynamic.”

To deliver Jansen, BHP benefits from the expertise of a number of local, national and global partners as part of an integrated project team known as Team Jansen.

Discover career opportunities with BHP at bhp.com/canada and with our contract partners at teamjansen.ca.