Northern Networks Ltd, a general contractor under Arviat's Eskimo Point Lumber Supply, has signed a partnership deal with Sandvik Mining and Rock Technology to bring Sandvik's products to Nunavut's mining companies.
Sandvik Mining and Rock Technology supplies drills, underground loaders and trucks, automation and digital solutions, rock tools and various parts.
"Becoming an authorized Sandvik distribution partner will allow Northern Networks Ltd to leverage their extensive knowledge of Canada’s North to support the growth of the mining industry and stimulate further economic development in their community," states a news release issued by the partners on Tuesday.
Ryan St. John, president and CEO of Eskimo Point Lumber Supply and Northern Networks Ltd., equated increasing technology with "more opportunity."
“As you automate (in mining) there is more opportunity for people in the community to be a part of that industry and gain employment thanks to new technology, a lot of younger people are so computer-savvy, and they are already working with their hands and equipment every day,” said St. John.
St. John noted that his company's workforce comprises 170 employees and 60 per cent of them come from Inuit communities.