When Trent Hamilton chose engineering, he didn’t have a clear idea of what he wanted to be. That’s something he slowly discovered while at university. Now working for Cameco Corporation, he’s part of an industry he firmly believes is doing the world good.
What is your background?
I grew up in Weyburn and moved to Saskatoon after high school to go to the University of Saskatchewan. I graduated with an engineering physics degree followed by a master’s degree in physics.
What do you do?
I’m the regulatory compliance coordinator for Cameco’s McArthur River mine. There are many agencies, both federally and provincially, that regulate how we do business through legislation, permits and inspections. My role is to act as a go-between for the site and the agencies, and to ensure that we meet all of our requirements and commitments. I get to work with all aspects of the operation and with all of the agencies.
How did you decide on a career?
In high school, I didn’t really know what I wanted to do for a career. All I knew was that I was interested in sciences and math, so engineering seemed like the best fit. Nearing the end of my undergraduate degree, I still wasn’t entirely sure what I wanted to do. I decided to do graduate studies, thinking I might stay in the academic world doing research and teaching. That path changed again, and I began my search for a job.
Why did you choose the uranium industry?
I fundamentally believe that nuclear energy is necessary for a green Earth. It is a major part of the solution, along with renewable energy sources. What education did you need? An engineering or natural sciences degree is required for the role of radiation specialist. My current role requires someone with an engineering or relevant science degree, with specific knowledge and experience in the uranium mining industry.
What surprised you the most about post secondary education and training?
I knew it was going to be a lot of work, but it was even a little more than I had anticipated. But I always managed to have enough time to socialize and do some other fun things outside of classes and studying.
Most important workplace skill?
The ability to work with others through good communication and organizational skills.
What was your first week on the job like?
I was quite nervous, as I had never been to a remote mine-site before. The nerves settled down in the first day or two after I had met a bunch of people and learned more about the site and my job.
What do you like the most about your job?
I like the people, the everyday challenges and the mine itself. The mine produces a massive amount of fuel for nuclear power plants with a very small environmental footprint—that makes me proud. I like that I’m in an industry that is good for the world.
Where do you see yourself in 10 years?
I see myself playing a more significant role in the health, safety and environment aspects of the nuclear industry. Because I so strongly support the nuclear industry, I will certainly stay with Cameco or another company in the industry.
Job Prospects – Fair to Good. There are many different engineering disciplines, with job prospects ranging from fair to good. The best prospects are for civil, mechanical and chemical engineers. Average annual income for this group is approximately $85,000.
Work Environment – Many Options. Engineers work in a wide variety of fields, from engineering physics to environmental protection, civil & mechanical engineering to computer engineering, agribiotech to industrial systems. Job environments are just as varied: consulting companies, educational institutions, communications companies, mine sites, mills, manufacturing plants, utilities, transportation, aerospace— the list goes on and on.
Education Options – Degree, Diploma. Both the U of S and U of R offer degree programs in a variety of engineering disciplines. U of R students may participate in the Co-operative Education Work/ Study program, while U of S students may participate in the Engineering Professional Internship Program. SIAST also offers related training through its Civil Engineering and Environmental Engineering diploma programs.