About
Who We Are
The Northern Manitoba Mining Academy (NMMA) provides innovative and responsible training solutions to help build a knowledgeable, skilled, and sustainable workforce within Canada’s vibrant, mineral-rich resource sector.
We support strategic training and research initiatives that strengthen the social, economic, and environmental impact of a robust mining industry in the North.
Our Mission
To provide innovative and responsible solutions for the creation of a knowledgeable, skilled, and sustainable workforce within a vibrant, mineral-rich resource industry.
Our Values
Located in Flin Flon, Manitoba, NMMA is built on a foundation of shared values that guide everything we do:
- Excellence in education and research
- Dedication to real-world problem-solving
- Respect for, and celebration of, the diversity of our students, communities, and services
- Commitment to reducing our environmental footprint
- Responsible stewardship of financial, capital, and human resources
- Maximizing social, economic, and ecological benefits
- Providing innovative and responsive solutions
Our Location
The Academy is located in Flin Flon, Manitoba—on the edge of the ancient Precambrian Shield and within the renowned Flin Flon–Snow Lake Greenstone Belt, one of the most prolific mining regions in the world.
Founded in 1927 by Hudson Bay Mining and Smelting (HBM&S), Flin Flon grew around the rich copper and zinc deposits discovered in the region. Today, the city continues to serve as a gateway to mineral exploration and development across northern Manitoba and Saskatchewan.
Flin Flon is located approximately 756 km (475 miles) northwest of Winnipeg and sits on the border between Manitoba and Saskatchewan. With a regional population of just under 8,000 (including Flin Flon, Creighton, and Denare Beach), it is Manitoba’s smallest city by population—but plays a big role in the province’s resource economy.
Courses & Training
Courses and Training at NMMA
The Northern Manitoba Mining Academy offers a wide range of safety, skills, and industry-relevant courses. Whether you're just starting out, seeking certification, or enhancing your workforce's training, we have options to support your goals.
We offer regularly scheduled courses as well as customized project-based training for organizations. Room rentals and invigilation services are also available.
Standard Courses
We provide a variety of in-demand safety and skills training courses. Most are between half a day and two days in length. The following are among our most frequently offered:
- Basic, Intermediate, and Advanced First Aid
- Mental Health First Aid
- Wilderness First Aid
- Wilderness Safety
- Wilderness Navigation
- Outdoor Skills
- Basic Life Support (BLS) Provider
- Chainsaw Safety
- Fall Arrest
- Confined Space Entry
- Flagperson Training
- Forklift Training
- Scissorlift Training
- Skid Steer Training
- Basics of Prospecting and Exploration
- Introduction to Mining
- Introduction and Intermediate Project Management
- Class 5 Driver Training
- MPI Driver Examinations
Please Note: Course offerings may vary throughout the year. For current availability, please check our Course Calendar or contact us directly by phone at 204-687-7038 or email nmma@ucn.ca.
Customized Project-Based Training
We work closely with industry partners to design training that meets specific project or organizational needs. These custom programs can include any of the modules listed above and be tailored in terms of duration, content, and equipment.
We can also deliver training on specialized equipment, even if it's not owned by NMMA.
If your organization has unique training requirements, we encourage you to get in touch. We’ll work with you to develop a program that fits.
Youth Programs
We are proud to support youth education and career exploration in the mining and natural resources sector. Programs include:
- Introduction to Geology
- Introduction to Prospecting and Exploration
- Introduction to Mining
These programs are designed to spark interest and build foundational knowledge for future careers.
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Room Rentals and Invigilation Services
Our facilities are available for rent by external organizations and training providers. We also offer professional invigilation services for certification and examination purposes.
For room availability, rates, or to book a session, please contact us.
Pricing and Registration
Course costs vary depending on the length and nature of the training. For pricing, scheduling, or to register for a course, please contact the Northern Manitoba Mining Academy directly:
📞 Phone: 204-687-7038
📧 Email: nmma@ucn.ca
We’re happy to help you find the training solution that best suits your needs.
Study Centre Facilities
Study Centre Facilities
The Northern Manitoba Mining Academy provides access to a wide range of facilities and equipment to support research, fieldwork, and hands-on learning. Our resources are available to students, scientists, and industry professionals working in the region.
From field kits to lab spaces and sample preparation tools, the Study Centre is designed to support both practical training and applied research.
Available Spaces and Equipment
Study and Instructional Spaces
- Study Space
- Wet Lab
- Classroom with access to Computer Lab
- Epson Interactive Projectors
- Various Audio and Visual Equipment
Field Equipment
- Hach Rugged Field Kits, Spectrophotometers, and Turbidimeters
- Ogeechee Corer, Ekman Dredge, and Wisconsin Plankton Net
- Kemmerer Sampler and Secchi Disk
- Terraplus KT-10 Magnetic Susceptibility Meter (circular and rectangular coil)
Rock Sample Preparation
- Buehler Lapro Slab Saw
- Delta Petrocut Abrasive Cutter and Powerfeed 10” Trim Saw
- Petrothin Thin Sectioning System and Petrovue Thin Section Viewer
- Polimet 1000 and MetaServ 250 Grinders/Polishers
- Fritsch Disc Mill Pulverizer
- Retsch BB200 Jaw Crusher
- Buehler Cast N’ Vac
Laboratory Equipment
- Purelab Water Purification System
- ProBench Fumehoods
- Magnetic Stir Plates
- Gravity Convection Oven
Research & Technology
- Motic B3-220 Compound Microscopes
- Swift SM90-M28Z Stereo Microscopes
- Nikon Eclipse 50iPOL Polarizing Microscope with Digital Camera
- Meiji ML9200 Polarizing Microscope
- Nikon Eclipse E200 Polarizing Microscopes
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Check Your Eligibility
- Seeking entry-level employment in mining?
- Willing and able to participate in full-time, in-person training?
- Able to meet workplace safety and readiness requirements?
- An in-person interview in Flin Flon may be required as part of the recruitment process.
Ready to Get Started?
Application Deadline: May 6, 2025
Have questions? Email mining@ucn.ca.
Mining Readiness
Take the Next Step Toward Your Future
Start your journey in the mining industry with the Mining Readiness Program, a partnership between University College of the North (UCN) and NORCAT. This sustainable mine skills training program is designed to equip individuals with the practical skills, industry knowledge, and safety certifications needed to succeed in entry-level mining roles. By combining classroom learning, hands-on experience, and virtual and augmented reality simulations, this four-week program helps strengthen the local workforce while supporting the mining industry.
What You'll Learn
Gain real-world experience and industry-recognized skills in:
- Workplace Safety – Get certified in WHMIS, Working at Heights, Elevated Work Platforms, and Forklift Operation to meet industry standards.
- Equipment & Operations – Train in rock scaling, hoisting, and other key mining operations to build hands-on expertise.
- Virtual Reality (VR) & Augmented Reality (AR) Training – Practice mining techniques in a state-of-the-art simulated environment to enhance learning and safety.
- Mine Site Tours – Experience real mining environments, gaining firsthand insight into daily operations.
Key Program Highlights
- Location: Northern Manitoba Mining Academy, Flin Flon
- Dates: June 16 - July 11, 2025
- Duration: 4 weeks (In-person)
- Learning Format: Classroom instruction, hands-on training with virtual and augmented reality.
- Tuition & materials are fully covered – No cost to accepted participants.
- Industry-recognized certifications – Earn a joint UCN/NORCAT certificate, making you job-ready for the mining industry.
- Real-world experience – Learn Mining Fundamentals, which covers essential industry knowledge while equipping participants with foundational digital skills to adapt to evolving technological advancements. Develop confidence in a professional mining environment.
- Expert training – NORCAT has over 20 years of experience in mining safety and productivity, ensuring high-quality instruction.
- Workforce development – This program is designed to support learners, strengthen local employment opportunities, and meet industry needs.
Inquire for Additional Information
Learn more about our programs at UCN. Reach out to us today.