In early March, the BHP Xplor 2025 cohort gathered in Toronto for our highly anticipated Toolkit Camp – a dynamic three-day event designed to equip our “Xplorers” with the practical tools and systems needed to accelerate their opportunities and businesses. 

More than a series of workshops, Toolkit Camp is a hands-on, immersive experience that challenges the cohort to sharpen their business strategies, strengthen their operational know-how and expand their technical thinking. Across three jam-packed days, the cohort took part in eight masterclasses, all tailored to the needs of early-stage exploration teams. 

Link: Watch the Toolkit Camp recap on Youtube

Reflecting on Toolkit Camp, several standout moments come to mind. Here are those highlights: 

Creating Connections at Vendor Day  

Every year, the central feature of Toolkit Camp is Vendor Day, where the cohort meets one-on-one with service providers through a series of 30-min sit-down sessions. This year, over 30 vendors took part in the day – our largest group yet. 

Why is Vendor Day so valuable? It provides the cohort with a rare chance to sit down for focused, tailored discussions with technical experts and service providers they have prioritised. These meetings generally prove far more valuable than typical conference booth conversations, allowing for real-time problem solving, capability matching and long-term relationship building. Several partnerships have already emerged as a result of this year’s sessions. 

Crafting Compelling Stories in Media Training 

Media training stretched the Xplor cohort beyond their comfort zone – and quickly became a Toolkit highlight!  

With on-camera practice and tailored coaching, the cohort worked on refining their personal and project narratives, and practiced communicating clearly and compellingly with investors, partners and the public.  

Architecture Interpretations: Practical, Powerful, and a Fan Favourite 

Another highlight was a hands-on practical on architectural interpretations, led by BHP Xperts Cam McCuaig (Head of Generative Exploration) and John Miller (Lead Principal, Portfolio Quality). Using a regional map sheet, participants worked in real-time to identify early-stage architectural features and apply technical interpretation tools. 

The session was described by one participant as "ABSOLUTELY BRILLIANT", and for good reason – it combined expert insights, team-based learning, and a tangible approach to interpreting early geology. 

This was my second time attending Toolkit Camp, and once again, it reinforced the magic of the BHP Xplor program. Whether through practical workshops, stimulating Fireside Chats, one-on-one coaching, or building new connections, Xplor continues to build momentum for the next general of explorers.  

Looking ahead, we’re excited to continue sharing stories from the 2025 BHP Xplor program as we shape the future of exploration.  

Stay tuned – more updates to come! 

Interested in applying in 2026? Visit bhp.com/xplor to sign up to our newsletter.