Confidence to excel

Maptek was gold sponsor for the 2025 Geology Games, a multi-day event held in Quebec during January for geology students from across Canada. The goal was to provide participants with an opportunity to apply academic knowledge to practical real-world scenarios while exploring technologies and concepts beyond their regular curriculum.  

This year’s competition saw the participation of eight prestigious institutions: Université Laval, University of Ottawa, Université du Québec à Montréal, Queen’s University, Polytechnique Montréal, McMaster University, Université du Québec à Chicoutimi, University of Waterloo, and University of Toronto. 

With 30 students competing in the Maptek-based challenge, the event fostered a vibrant atmosphere for learning and networking.

The competition aimed to mimic the challenges students may encounter in their professional careers. 

Participants reviewed the data provided, developed geological and resource models, and delivered investment recommendations for further exploration. 

They were graded across important technical and professional competencies, including initial data review, geological model interpretation, grade estimation, resource classification, reserve calculations, and the clarity of their observations and recommendations. 

Teamwork, professional conduct, and the ability to tackle complex challenges under strict time constraints were also key evaluation criteria.

Maptek involvement, under the leadership of Maureen Moore, Geoscience Manager North America, included provision of software tools and designing a realistic scenario to evaluate a project. 

Moore played a key role in developing the competition and mentoring participants through the geological modelling processes, helping them connect academic knowledge with industry expectations.

Reflecting on the event, Moore found participating in the Geo Games incredibly rewarding. 

‘I was truly impressed by the enthusiasm, adaptability, and collaboration the students demonstrated while tackling complex challenges,’ Moore said.

‘I also want to acknowledge the contributions of the student volunteers, who ensured that participants and visiting professionals felt welcomed and supported throughout the event. They played a key role in fostering the inclusive and professional atmosphere that made the Games such a success,’ she said.

Events like the 2025 Geology Games highlight the critical importance of experiential learning in geoscience education. Maptek is honoured to assist in equipping future industry professionals with the skills and confidence to excel.