Graham Ballachey
Vice President, Engineering
American Lithium Corp.
Learn About My Career
I manage and oversee all the engineering work for a lithium mine development company.
I was born/grew up in: Brantford, Ontario
I now live in: Vancouver, British Columbia.
I completed my training/education at: BSc (Physics & Chemistry), University of Victoria. Master of Science (Mechanical Engineering), Carleton University
I'm part of the management team for a lithium exploration and development company. We explore the Americas looking for lithium deposits. When we find a lithium deposit, we then perform the engineering research work to make sure it is practical to develop the deposit. If everything works out, this could become a real mine. I also contribute to the strategic planning for the company. I even get involved in the marketing. The lithium is used for the growth of the lithium-ion battery industry. These batteries are used mostly for electric cars.
I took a lot of turns to get here! I started by getting a degree in science (physics & chemistry). Then I completed a master's in mechanical engineering. After working for a while, I became a professional engineer. I left my job at an engineering firm to set up my own business. That led to working with junior mining companies. My education and experience have given me a great skillset for my management role at American Lithium Corp.
I love learning about geology, metallurgy, engineering. I love everything related figuring out whether a mine is viable or not. I also like managing people and building relationships. Good relationships help get the work done. This job is a great fit for me because it combines science and engineering as well as business and management.
We search the world to provide the raw materials for a modern lifestyle. You can't have electric cars and batteries without the materials to make them!
I spend a lot of time with friends and family doing whatever. I love music (playing and listening), sports, and the outdoors (beach, hiking, camping and gardening). I also like reading, games, and movies.
Learn as much as you can about a variety of fields, and try out many jobs. If you want to get into mining, study something closely related to it. For example, geology, mining engineering, or materials engineering).
What I do at work
I'm part of the management team for a lithium exploration and development company. We explore the Americas looking for lithium deposits. When we find a lithium deposit, we then perform the engineering research work to make sure it is practical to develop the deposit. If everything works out, this could become a real mine. I also contribute to the strategic planning for the company. I even get involved in the marketing. The lithium is used for the growth of the lithium-ion battery industry. These batteries are used mostly for electric cars.
My career path is
I took a lot of turns to get here! I started by getting a degree in science (physics & chemistry). Then I completed a master's in mechanical engineering. After working for a while, I became a professional engineer. I left my job at an engineering firm to set up my own business. That led to working with junior mining companies. My education and experience have given me a great skillset for my management role at American Lithium Corp.
I am motivated by
I love learning about geology, metallurgy, engineering. I love everything related figuring out whether a mine is viable or not. I also like managing people and building relationships. Good relationships help get the work done. This job is a great fit for me because it combines science and engineering as well as business and management.
How I affect peoples’ lives
We search the world to provide the raw materials for a modern lifestyle. You can't have electric cars and batteries without the materials to make them!
Outside of work I
I spend a lot of time with friends and family doing whatever. I love music (playing and listening), sports, and the outdoors (beach, hiking, camping and gardening). I also like reading, games, and movies.
My advice to others
Learn as much as you can about a variety of fields, and try out many jobs. If you want to get into mining, study something closely related to it. For example, geology, mining engineering, or materials engineering).
When I was a student I enjoyed:
- Math
- Foods and Nutrition
- Physical Education/Health
- Science
- Technology
- Music
When I was a student, I would describe myself as someone who:
- Brought people together
- Organized activities for my friends
- Liked reading
- Felt great satisfaction in getting good grades
- Played video games
- Always threw the best parties
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