--- title: "Mining and Mineral Processing Services | BBA" date: 2021-06-02T06:44:00-04:00 author: sadmin canonical_url: "https://www.bbaconsultants.com/en-ca/services/engineering/mining-mineral-processing" section: Services --- 1. Your operational reality - ![Mm icon MMP cross multidisplinary sand background web SQ HR BBA ing](https://www.assets.bbaconsultants.com/bba-production-assets/production/images/_1000x1000_fit_center-center_100_none_ffffff/211581/mm_icon_MMP-cross-multidisplinary-sand-background_web_SQ_HR_BBA.webp) ### Turning resources into viable, investment-ready projects Rising costs, long timelines and complex regulatory pathways make early decisions critical to securing funding and reducing project risk. - ![Mm icon MMP expectations sand background web SQ HR BBA ing](https://www.assets.bbaconsultants.com/bba-production-assets/production/images/_1000x1000_fit_center-center_100_none_ffffff/211582/mm_icon_MMP-expectations-sand-background_web_SQ_HR_BBA.webp) ### Expectations for responsible operations keep rising Stricter requirements for water, tailings, emissions and community engagement are reshaping how projects are evaluated and operated, increasing the need for solutions that support regulatory confidence, transparency and long-term performance. - ![Mm icon MMP operating environments sand background web SQ HR BBA](https://www.assets.bbaconsultants.com/bba-production-assets/production/images/_1000x1000_fit_center-center_100_none_ffffff/211583/mm_icon_MMP-operating-environments-sand-background_web_SQ_HR_BBA.webp) ### Ore bodies and operating environments are becoming more complex Variable mineralogy, declining grades, tighter product specifications and more stringent regulations make operations increasingly demanding, requiring advanced technical insight and optimized, resilient plant designs. 2. BBA's approach ## We deliver mining performance differently Delivering reliable mining performance requires more than solid engineering. It calls for teams with hands-on experience in mining operations and a track record of **developing** **projects that progressed into construction and operation**. BBA’s proven experience shapes how our teams approach each project. We integrate geology, process, energy and automation from the ground up, bringing these elements together in practical, buildable ways that protect value and strengthen operations over time. 3. - ## Why do mining clients choose BBA? Because we bring full value-chain insight — and make it work at site. - Decision-ready studies that reduce risk, accelerate schedules, and strengthen investment confidence - Integrated delivery across geology, processing, energy, environment, and digital systems - Optimization focused on recovery, stability, energy, water, and critical processes - Long-term, hands-on engagement from project through operation - Field-experienced teams that validate and adjust solutions in real, remote, and complex conditions - Strong commitment from early project stages through the critical transition into operations — when performance, reliability, and execution matter most You gain mining projects that are technically sound, practical to build and resilient in real operating conditions, from approval and construction through long-term operation. - ## What gives BBA the ability to build confidence in Mineral Resource and Mineral Reserve decisions? By combining technical rigor with field-validated and investment-grade insight. - Strong estimation expertise, grounded in decades of projects — from studies through construction - Qualified Persons across NI 43-101, JORC and SK-1300 standards - Proven ability to advance projects under uncertainty using defensible, value-driven assumptions informed by real-life experience - Early focus on the parameters that materially impact project value You gain resource models that stand up to scrutiny and support credible, investment-grade decisions. - ## How does BBA design mines that balance safety, productivity and sustainability? We design mines the way they’re actually operated — aligning innovation with delivery and performance realities. - Mine planning rooted in real operating constraints - Integrated geotechnical insight and equipment selection - Energy excellence, emissions management and ESG considerations built into the design from day one You gain mine plans that are robust, safe and executable — designed to perform through construction, operation and change. - ## What enables BBA to develop efficient processes while enhancing the performance of existing ones? A deep understanding of plant behavior, variability and operating realities. - Engineers and metallurgists with real in-plant operating knowledge - Test work, flowsheet development, simulation and optimization - Solutions that enhance recovery, throughput, energy and water efficiency You gain measurable improvements that strengthen recovery, efficiency and long-term plant performance. - ## How does BBA design and strengthen tailings safety and resilience? By combining engineering rigor with lifecycle-focused operational insight. - Field assessments, operational reviews and risk evaluations - Designs focused on stability, monitorability and long-term stewardship - Advanced modeling paired with practical, day-to-day performance insight You gain tailings strategies that reduce risk, meet regulatory and stakeholder expectations and stand resilient over the full mine life. - ## What makes BBA effective at reducing emissions across mining operations? Emissions management strategies aligned with site conditions, capital constraints and operational priorities — not theoretical assumptions. - Data-driven efficiency improvements - Fleet and equipment electrification strategies - Renewable and hybrid power integration designed for remote conditions - Feasibility validated on site, not just through models - Insight drawn from multiple industrial sectors to identify the most effective, proven solutions You achieve emissions outcomes that are feasible, economical and aligned with operational and investment realities. 4. > Our job isn’t just to design projects — it’s to work side-by-side with clients to solve real operational challenges. Ingenuity matters, but practicality is what makes a mine perform. Isabelle Leblanc, VP Mining and Metals 5. 6. Our team - ![Amanda Fitch](https://www.assets.bbaconsultants.com/bba-production-assets/production/images/avatars/_488x465_fit_center-center_100_none_ffffff/204407/Amanda-Fitch.webp)### Amanda Fitch, P.Eng. Director, Mining and Metals **Director, mining and metals market, Amanda brings over 15 years of experience in mining engineering** across underground operations, open-pit mining, and consulting. She has strong expertise in technical studies from scoping to feasibility, multi-site project management, and economic evaluations across multiple commodities. **Key expertise and certifications** - NI 43-101 technical reports and qualified person - Economic studies: scoping, PEA, PFS, feasibility - Underground and open-pit mine design - Mine planning and 3D modelling - Licensed professional engineer (OIQ, EGBC, Nevada PE) **Major achievements :** Amanda has led mandates on 25+ mining projects in Canada, including gold and base metals, with work in remote regions, the U.S., and Eastern Europe. **Approach and added value :** She delivers structured, reliable analyses aligned with the technical and economic realities of mining projects. - ![MM Melissa Jarry 4446](https://www.assets.bbaconsultants.com/bba-production-assets/production/images/avatars/_1080x1030_fit_center-center_100_none_ffffff/203170/MM_Melissa-Jarry_4446.webp)### Mélissa Jarry, P.Eng. Department Manager, Mining and Geology **Combining strategy and mining engineering, Mélissa Jarry leverages 15+ years of experience** to lead complex projects, from preliminary to feasibility studies, with rigour and vision. **Key expertise and certifications** - Open-pit mine design and pit optimization - Capital and operating cost estimation - Mining equipment selection and project management - Member of the *Ordre des ingénieurs du Québec (OIQ)* **Major achievements:** Participated in strategic projects to develop and operate mines, integrating technical planning, infrastructure optimization and multidisciplinary coordination across the Americas and Africa. **Approach and added value:** Mélissa turns complex analyses into concrete solutions, ensuring reliable, compliant projects geared toward sustainable performance. - ![Mm employee men todd mccracken retouch web SQ LR BBA](https://www.assets.bbaconsultants.com/bba-production-assets/production/images/avatars/_1080x1030_fit_center-center_100_none_ffffff/204324/mm_employee_men_todd-mccracken_retouch_web_SQ_LR_BBA.webp)### Todd McCracken, P.Geo. Department Manager, Mining and Geology **Todd McCracken has been leveraging 30+ years of expertise to secure resource estimation and economic studies,** reducing risks and maximizing the value of mining projects. **Key expertise and certifications** - Advanced economic studies (PEA, PFS, FS) and project optimization - Qualified Person under NI 43-101 and S-K 1300 - Project management and QA/QC programs - Associations: PGO, QOG, PEGNL **Major achievements:** Over 55 multi-commodity projects in more than 10 countries across the Americas, Europe, Asia and Africa, integrating advanced modelling and regulatory compliance. **Approach and added value:** Todd employs a methodical and cooperative strategy, combining regulatory compliance with comprehensive strategic analysis to safeguard investments, mitigate risks and maximize the value of mining ventures. - ![Maria De Campos](https://www.assets.bbaconsultants.com/bba-production-assets/production/images/avatars/_1080x1030_fit_center-center_100_none_ffffff/210025/Maria-De-Campos.webp)### Maria de Campos, Ph.D. Subject Matter Expert, Mining and Metals Market **Pyrometallurgical process expert with over 30 years of experience,** Maria brings deep expertise in high-temperature processes, both in existing production and engineering design, including process studies, technical design, process optimization, and due diligence. She has supported projects from concept to execution and full ramp-up across a wide range of ferrous and non-ferrous commodities. **Key expertise and certifications:** - Concept, pre-feasibility, feasibility studies, and EPCM - Smelter production optimization, troubleshooting, and debottlenecking - Mass and energy balances, process design - Technology selection and due diligence assessments **Major achievements:** Maria has contributed to 25+ international and 15+ mining projects involving copper, nickel, lead, zinc, and ferroalloys across the Americas, Africa, and Asia-Pacific. She has taken several smelter projects from concept to execution and full ramp-up. **Approach and added value:** She combines strong pyrometallurgical fundamentals and design expertise with production experience to deliver rigorous technical analyses, optimize high-temperature metallurgical processes, and enhance project robustness in the mining and metals sector. - ![Mm employee men colin hardie retouch web SQ LR BBA](https://www.assets.bbaconsultants.com/bba-production-assets/production/images/avatars/_1080x1030_fit_center-center_100_none_ffffff/204411/mm_employee_men_colin-hardie_retouch_web_SQ_LR_BBA.webp)### Colin Hardie, M.Eng., M.B.A. Senior Consultant in Mining Project Development and Study Management **As a mineral processing engineer, Colin Hardie brings over 25 years of experience in process development, mining operations and study management.** He helps mining companies turn their ambitions into viable, sustainable projects through an integrated, rigorous and fit-for-purpose approach. **Key expertise** - Study management (PEA, PFS, FS) and mining project development - Cost estimation, financial modelling and economic analysis - Multidisciplinary integration and technical optimization - Qualified Person – NI 43-101, S-K 1300, JORC and member of APEO, NAPEG, OIQ, CIM, PDAC - Operational experience, R&D and continuous improvement (Six Sigma) **Major achievements:** Led over 25 mining studies in Canada and abroad, contributing to complex projects in demanding settings. Also served as a Qualified Person on more than 20 projects in base metals, gold and battery materials. **Approach and added value:** Colin turns complexity into clear decisions and creates value through collaboration and rigorous execution. - ![Geraldine Cosset](https://www.assets.bbaconsultants.com/bba-production-assets/production/images/avatars/_1080x1030_fit_center-center_100_none_ffffff/206707/Geraldine-Cosset.webp)### Geraldine Cosset, P.Eng. Department Manager, Toronto Office **Tailings and dam engineer with over 15 years of experience,** Géraldine specializes in the design, construction, operation, and closure of tailings storage facilities and mining dams. Her background combines geotechnical engineering, hydrogeology, environmental disciplines, and TSF-focused engineering from concept through detailed design into closure. **Key expertise and certifications** - Engineer of record and qualified person - TSF, embankment, and raise design and optimization - Risk assessments (FMEA, QRA) and dam safety reviews - Conventional talings and filtered tailigns deposition and management **Major achievements :** Géraldine has delivered TSF and mining dam mandates across Canada - including Nunavut, Australia, Burkina Faso, Panama, and Jamaica. **Approach and added value :** She supports the integrity and evolution of containment structures to enable safe, reliable, and sustainable mining operations. - ![Mm employee men nicolas szwedska retouch web SQ LR BBA 1](https://www.assets.bbaconsultants.com/bba-production-assets/production/images/avatars/_1080x1030_fit_center-center_100_none_ffffff/204405/mm_employee_men_nicolas-szwedska_retouch_web_SQ_LR_BBA-1.webp)### Nicolas Szwedska, P.Eng. Principal Engineer, Mining and Geology **As a mining engineering expert, Nicolas Szwedska brings over 15 years of expertise to designing and optimizing mines** that meet international standards by integrating geological modelling, technical governance and best operational practices. **Key expertise and certifications** - Public reports (NI 43-101, JORC, S-K 1300) and OIQ member - Mine planning and investment audits - Technical governance and multidisciplinary coordination - Application of advanced solutions for mine design and planning **Major achievements:** Designed and optimized open-pit mines and selected equipment for complex projects on four continents, covering commodities such as gold, copper and lithium. **Approach and added value:** Nicolas turns regulatory requirements into clear, strategic solutions that lower risks and boost overall project performance. - ![Mm employee men jean lheureux retouch web SQ LR BBA](https://www.assets.bbaconsultants.com/bba-production-assets/production/images/avatars/_1080x1030_fit_center-center_100_none_ffffff/204266/mm_employee_men_jean-lheureux_retouch_web_SQ_LR_BBA.webp)### Jean L'Heureux, P.Eng., M.Eng. Project and Studies Manager, Mining and Metals Market **Jean L'Heureux brings 30+ years of experience in production, commercialization and R&D** to ensure performance and sustainability of strategic projects in materials engineering and metallurgy. **Key expertise and certifications** - Natural graphite processing and applications, technical and economic studies - Mining project development and optimization across multiple continents - Qualified Person under NI 43-101 and OIQ member - Energy transition and Li-ion battery integration **Major achievements:** Supervised complex projects and led high-stakes natural graphite projects, integrating technological innovation, regulatory compliance and social acceptability. **Approach and added value:** Jean simplifies technical complexity into clear, strategic solutions that attract investments and boost sustainable, profitable project performance. - ![Joel Kapusta canva](https://www.assets.bbaconsultants.com/bba-production-assets/production/images/avatars/_1080x1030_fit_center-center_100_none_ffffff/204413/Joel-Kapusta-canva.webp)### Joël Kapusta, Ph.D. Senior Consulting Expert, Sonic Injection and Pyrometallurgy **Senior consulting expert in sonic injection and pyrometallurgy,** Joël brings over 30 years of experience in mineral processing and extractive metallurgy, spanning production and engineering. His background includes process optimization, technology implementation, techno-economic studies, and industrial testing. **Key expertise** - Extractive metallurgy of nonferrous metals - Metallurgical process audits, optimization, and intensification - Submerged gas injection phenomena & fluid dynamics - Sonic injection technology design, piloting, and implementation **Major achievements :** Joël has contributed to 38 mining projects and more than 20 base metals projects, with mandates across Europe, Africa, Asia, and the Americas. **Approach and added value :** He leverages end-to-end metallurgical expertise to diagnose, optimize, and support process evolution in complex operating environments. - ![Isabelle Leblanc Carre](https://www.assets.bbaconsultants.com/bba-production-assets/production/images/avatars/_2048x1953_fit_center-center_100_none_ffffff/176805/Isabelle-Leblanc-Carre.webp)### Isabelle Leblanc, P.Eng. Vice-President, Mining and Metals Market **With over 20 years of experience in mining projects, Isabelle Leblanc helps decision-makers move forward with confidence** by identifying value-driven scenarios that can be implemented in the field. **Key expertise and certifications** - NI 43-101, JORC and due diligence, technical audits - Open-pit mining strategies and optimization - Strategic mine studies and planning - Project cost estimation and economic analysis **Major achievements:** Led more than 25 studies (from preliminary and pre-feasibility to bankable feasibility) for gold, copper, lithium and iron in diverse geological and organizational settings. **Approach and added value:** Isabelle excels in transforming technical requirements into clear decision-making options, lowering risks and improving overall project performance. - ![Vera Gella](https://www.assets.bbaconsultants.com/bba-production-assets/production/images/avatars/_1080x1030_fit_center-center_100_none_ffffff/206706/Vera-Gella.webp)### Vera Gella, P.Eng. Department Manager, Process Mining and Metals **Metallurgist with 18+ years of experience**, Vera brings recognized expertise in mineral processing, process design, and mining studies. Her background also includes metallurgical sample selection and testing, techno-economic trade-off studies, and participation in numerous studies from conceptual to feasibility level across a wide range of materials, including iron ore, gold, base metals, and graphite. **Key expertise and certifications** - Mineral processing and hydrometallurgy - Process design - Metallurgical testing - Technical contribution and integration of conceptual, PFS, and feasibility studies - Professional Engineer (OIQ) and NI 43-101 Qualified Person (QP) **Notable experience:** Vera has contributed to more than 15 applied metallurgy projects, including studies on the recovery of iron ore, gold, mixed base metals, graphite, and graphene. **Approach and value:** She brings a collaborative, people-focused approach grounded in attentive listening to client needs. By fostering teamwork and recognizing individual strengths, she creates an engaging environment that drives effective, high-quality project delivery. - ![Julia Gartley Carre](https://www.assets.bbaconsultants.com/bba-production-assets/production/images/avatars/_621x592_fit_center-center_100_none_ffffff/176808/Julia_Gartley_Carre.webp)### Julia Gartley, P.Eng., M.B.A. Office director Julia Gartley has been a member of the BBA team since 2019, is a mineral process engineer and leads the Vancouver Mineral Processing team. Her onsite experience gives her a unique perspective on the operability and maintainability of process facilities. Julia Gartley specializes in niobium, gold and copper metallurgy and has managed complex metallurgical test programs, led trade-off studies and been in charge of project teams. - ![Sabrina Woodworth](https://www.assets.bbaconsultants.com/bba-production-assets/production/images/avatars/_1080x1030_fit_center-center_100_none_ffffff/209926/Sabrina-Woodworth.webp)### Sabrina Woodworth, P. Eng Department Manager, Mining and Geology 7. - [](https://www.bbaconsultants.com/en-ca/contact) ![Icon MMP world team navy background web SQ HR BBA ing](https://www.assets.bbaconsultants.com/bba-production-assets/production/images/_1000x1000_fit_center-center_100_none_ffffff/211585/icon_MMP-world-team-navy-background_web_SQ_HR_BBA.webp) ### Ready to move your mining project forward with confidence? Our teams help you make the right decisions — from early resource evaluation to mine design, processing, tailings and decarbonization — with solutions grounded in solid engineering and real field insight. [ Contact our team ](https://www.bbaconsultants.com/en-ca/contact)