This week, IME’s Zeina Veyisoglu had a chance to sit and chat with Caitlin Courneya, Orica’s ANE Manufacturing Manager (Western Canada & Alaska Region).
Q: What’s your role, and who are you outside the job title?
I’ve been with Orica for about eight years. I’m a chemical engineer by training and currently based in Denver. I started out in bulk explosives formulation and implementation support and now oversee the manufacturing side…seeing the bulk explosives life cycle through from start to finish is my favorite part. I grew up on a farm, so getting my hands dirty has always felt natural. Outside of work, you’ll usually find me outdoors, on a motorcycle, or on the golf course!
Q: How did you get into the commercial explosives and mining industry?
A little bit of luck and a lot of curiosity. I was always interested in mining and chemistry, and with some luck I discovered that commercial explosives was the perfect combination of the two!Once I joined Orica through their graduate program, I got to see many different pieces of the organization. The more I learned, the more I loved it. Now I’m passionate about sharing that story, especially through education, resources, and outreach, like careers fairs, so more people realize how interesting and rewarding this industry can be.
Q: You’re passionate about supporting women in mining. Why is that important to you?
Mining and explosives aren’t always fields people picture women in, but they should be. There are so many opportunities, and I care deeply about helping women see themselves here…through education, mentorship, and sharing real experiences, not just job titles.
Q: Let’s talk imposter syndrome. Is it a thing for you?
For me, it’s situational. I know imposter syndrome is very real for many women, but personally, it's not something I experience much. I am thankful for the opportunities I have had coupled with the work to get there. I’ve been lucky to feel genuinely supported throughout my career. I also try to pay that forward by advocating for the people around me, speaking up, and making sure good ideas don’t go unheard.
Q: What advice would you give your younger self at the start of your career?
Don’t be afraid to be unapologetically yourself. Be authentic and don’t try to change who you are to fit into the industry. There are moments when being more empathetic matters, and others when you need to be more assertive or step into leadership, but you don’t have to lose yourself to do either. Authenticity can be your most powerful confidence strategy.
Q: What does advocating for yourself look like in practice?
Raising your hand. Saying yes before you feel 100% ready. Trusting that your perspective matters. And just as importantly, doing the same for others when you see an opportunity to help.
Q: If your career had a theme song, what would it be?
Eye of the Tiger—with a little TNT mixed in.