“Additionally, expanding our workforce to maintain these timelines has become increasingly challenging due to the growing talent gaps across our specialized sector,” Nordick notes. Bolen credits the company’s response to these obstacles to its talent pool. “Our Project Coordinators and Project Managers engage in ongoing communication with suppliers, ensuring we continually meet client deadlines,” he says.“The presence of numerous long-term employees enables us to foster strong, trust-based relationships with both suppliers and clients, consistently delivering exceptional service.” The company’s approach to maintaining alignment relies on accessible mentorship in both field and office settings.“This leadership structure, combined with direct collaboration among experienced leaders and team members, enables strong communication and ensures that all priorities are understood and addressed,” Bolen adds. INSIDE THE 25KV UPGRADE PROJECT The challenge facing large-scale underground mining operations is straightforward but consequential. As mines go deeper and farther from their power sources, the existing electrical distribution systems struggle to maintain adequate voltage and capacity. Jason Dierker, Director of Technical Services, explains the theory behind the problem.“As these large-scale mining operations expand underground, they mine farther from the power source. In doing so this can cause issues with the underground electrical infrastructure that is far away from the source.” For one of Saskatchewan’s potash operations, the solution required upgrading the underground distribution voltage from 15kV to 25kV. Most potash mines in the province operate underground systems at 15kV, but voltage drop becomes problematic as operations move further from power sources. “Increasing supply voltage levels improves the overall electrical system performance by reducing power losses and improving voltage stability,” Dierker says. JA Tech’s role is centered on constructing and commissioning the new 25kV surface substation to supply power to the underground network. The scope fell within the company’s technical 84 BUSINESS VIEW MAGAZINE VOLUME 12, ISSUE 11
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