Mining and mineral processing

Mining is transforming. Demand for critical minerals, rising sustainability expectations and increasingly complex deposits are reshaping how mines are planned and financed, built and operated. Today, success relies on early, integrated decisions that optimize resources, manage risk and protect long-term performance and value.

Mining and mineral processing

Your operational reality

Building confidence across every stage of the mining lifecycle

Mining organizations are operating in increasingly complex environments. From geological models and mine planning to plant performance, infrastructure and closure, every decision must align early and stand up in real operating conditions.
- 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.
- 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.
- 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.
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.
- 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.
- 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.
- 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.
- 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.
- 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.
- 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.
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
- Building on solid ground
  
  We deliver accurate geological interpretations and resource models that guide confident investment decisions and long-term planning.
  
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  Balancing safety, productivity and sustainability
  
  We design integrated mine plans that optimize safety, efficiency and environmental performance across the life of the operation.
  
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  Maximizing recovery and performance
  
  We design and optimize plants that increase recovery, reduce energy and water use, and strengthen long-term operational performance.
  
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  Ensuring safety and long-term reliability
  
  We design tailings strategies and facilities that meet the highest standards for stability, environmental protection and lifecycle stewardship.
  
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  Supporting reliable, resilient operations
  
  We design power, water, logistics and structural systems adapted to the realities of remote and challenging mining environments.
  
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  Responsible, efficient ore processing
  
  Our metallurgists develop processes that maximize metal recovery, reduce emissions and adapt to complex or changing feedstocks.
  
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  Reducing emissions across the mining value chain
  
  We integrate efficiency, electrification, hybrid power, and advanced carbon management solutions into mine design and operations.
  
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Meet some of our mining and mineral processing experts
Amanda Fitch, P.Eng.

Director, Mining and Metals

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.

Mélissa Jarry, P.Eng.

Department Manager, Mining and Geology

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.

Todd McCracken, P.Geo.

Department Manager, Mining and Geology

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, Ph.D.

Subject Matter Expert, Mining and Metals Market

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.

Colin Hardie, M.Eng., M.B.A.

Senior Consultant in Mining Project Development and Study Management

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, P.Eng.

Department Manager, Toronto Office

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.

Nicolas Szwedska, P.Eng.

Principal Engineer, Mining and Geology

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.

Jean L'Heureux, P.Eng., M.Eng.

Project and Studies Manager, Mining and Metals Market

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.

Joël Kapusta, Ph.D.

Senior Consulting Expert, Sonic Injection and Pyrometallurgy

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, P.Eng.

Vice-President, Mining and Metals Market

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 P.Eng.

Department Manager, Process Mining and Metals

Vera Gella P.Eng.

Department Manager, Process Mining and Metals
Where are you on your mining project?
- 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