Most job seekers treat PDAC like a conference. That’s why they leave with swag instead of job offers.
From March 1-4, 2026, the Metro Toronto Convention Centre will host over 27,000 mining professionals from 125+ countries—and hundreds of them will be hiring. But PDAC isn’t just the world’s premier mining convention. It’s the world’s largest mining job fair in disguise.
The difference between candidates who leave Toronto with opportunities and those who leave with business cards they’ll never follow up on? Strategic preparation.
For nearly a decade, TPD has worked PDAC’s floor, connecting hundreds of mining professionals with career-defining opportunities. We’ve seen which strategies work and which ones waste four valuable days. Here’s your tactical playbook for making PDAC 2026 count.
1. Before PDAC: Research Like Your Career Depends On It (Because It Does)
Walking into PDAC unprepared is like sending generic resumes—you’ll blend into the crowd of 27,000 attendees. Successful job seekers do their homework weeks in advance.
Identify Your Target Companies
Start by creating a hit list of 15-20 companies you want to work for.
Use the PDAC exhibitor directory strategically. Filter by:
- Commodity focus (lithium, copper, gold, critical minerals)
- Stage of operation (exploration, development, production)
- Geographic region (if location matters to you)
- Company size (majors vs. juniors vs. tech suppliers)
Research their hiring activity before PDAC. Check:
- Company websites for career pages and recent job postings
- LinkedIn for recent hires (shows they’re actively growing teams)
- Mining news sites for expansion announcements or new project approvals
- SEDAR filings for juniors (financial health indicates hiring capacity)
Find the decision-makers. Use LinkedIn to identify:
- VP of Exploration or Chief Geologist (for technical roles)
- HR Directors or Talent Acquisition managers
- Department heads in your specialty area
- Employees in roles similar to what you’re targeting
Pro tip: At PDAC, the people staffing booths aren’t always hiring managers. Knowing who to ask for by name (“Is Sarah Chen, your VP of Exploration, available?”) separates you from casual booth visitors.
Prioritize the Right Exhibitor Zones
PDAC’s floor layout matters for job seekers:
Trade Show North: Technology providers, equipment manufacturers, and mining tech startups. If you’re coming from semiconductor, automation, or manufacturing backgrounds, start here. These companies often recruit non-traditional mining talent more aggressively and make hiring decisions faster than major producers.
Investors Exchange: Junior exploration companies seeking capital. These firms typically hire geologists, project managers, and exploration teams. They’re smaller, nimbler, and often offer faster career progression than established majors.
Main Trade Show: The big players—major mining companies, established service providers, engineering firms. Expect more formal recruitment processes, but these employers offer stability and structured career paths.
Country Pavilions: If you’re open to international opportunities, don’t skip these. Canadian, Australian, Latin American, and African pavilions often feature multiple employers under one roof.
Update Your Professional Materials
Your resume needs a PDAC-specific refresh:
Lead with relevant keywords: AI-driven exploration, ESG compliance, autonomous systems, digital twin technology, remote operations, critical minerals—whatever matches the jobs you’re targeting.
Quantify your impact: “Reduced exploration costs by 23% using machine learning algorithms” beats “Experienced in data analysis.”
Translate non-mining experience: If you’re coming from tech or manufacturing, explicitly connect your background to mining needs. “Implemented predictive maintenance systems for semiconductor fabrication equipment” translates directly to “digital mine” initiatives.
Keep it to one page: You’ll be handing these out at booths. Hiring managers won’t read novels at a trade show.
Bring 50-75 printed resumes in a portfolio folder (not folded in your pocket). Yes, in 2026. When you meet a hiring manager and the conversation goes well, handing them a crisp resume makes you memorable and actionable. They can write notes on it, pass it to a colleague, or add it to a “follow-up” pile that night.
Also save a PDF of your resume on your phone. Many booths now display QR codes that link directly to job applications or resume upload portals. Being able to upload your resume on the spot (instead of saying “I’ll send it later”) dramatically increases your chances of being considered.
2. Craft a Job-Seeker-Specific Elevator Pitch
Your PDAC introduction needs to accomplish three things in 30 seconds: establish credibility, communicate value, and create an opening for engagement.
The formula:
[Your name + current/recent role] + [your specific expertise] + [what you’re looking for] + [the value you bring] + [engagement question]
Example for someone pivoting from tech to mining:
“Hi, I’m Jordan Martinez. I’m a data scientist who spent the last four years building predictive analytics systems for semiconductor manufacturing at Intel. I’m here at PDAC because I want to bring that expertise into mineral exploration—I’ve been following how companies like [Company Name] are using AI for targeting, and I’d love to explore opportunities in that space. Is your team currently hiring for roles that combine geology with machine learning?”
Example for a traditional mining professional:
“I’m Alex Thompson, a senior geologist with eight years in gold exploration, most recently with [Company]. I’ve managed teams on three discovery projects and I’m specifically interested in companies focused on critical minerals and the energy transition. I saw that [Company Name] just announced a new lithium project in Ontario—are you building out your exploration team for that?”
Why this works:
- You’ve immediately established relevant experience
- You’ve shown you’ve done research (you know their projects)
- You’ve made it easy for them to say “yes, let me introduce you to…” or “not right now, but let me give you a contact”
- You’ve positioned yourself as a solution to their needs, not just someone asking for a job
Practice this until it feels natural, not rehearsed. You’ll deliver variations of it 50+ times over four days.
3. During PDAC: Strategic Networking That Actually Leads to Offers
PDAC’s four days are a marathon, not a sprint. Here’s how to spend your time effectively.
Day 1 (Sunday, March 2): Reconnaissance and Relationship Building
Morning (9:00 AM – 12:00 PM):
- Attend Coffee Connections networking event (8:00-9:00 AM if you registered)
- Hit your top 5 priority booths while they’re still fresh and staffed with senior people
- Goal: Quality conversations with 3-5 key contacts, not speed-networking with 50 people
Afternoon (12:00 PM – 5:00 PM):
- Attend one high-value session related to your field (shows you’re committed to continuous learning)
- Visit 5-10 secondary-priority booths
- Stop by TPD’s Booth 7117N for a resume review and to learn which of the 1,300+ exhibitors are actively hiring for roles that match your background (more on this below)
Evening:
- Attend networking receptions (check the PDAC app for evening events)
- This is when informal conversations happen—deals get discussed over drinks, hiring managers relax and become more approachable
Days 2-3 (Monday-Tuesday): Deep Engagement
Focus on follow-up conversations: If someone at a booth said “come back tomorrow and I’ll introduce you to our hiring manager,” make that your priority.
Attend the Student-Industry Mixer (even if you’re not a student—early-career professionals are often welcome). This event is specifically designed for talent connection.
Seek out the “Mining for Diversity” event if you’re from an underrepresented group in mining. These focused networking events often lead to meaningful conversations with companies committed to diversifying their teams.
Pro tip for introverts: Don’t try to work the room at massive networking events. Instead, position yourself near the food/drink station and have quality conversations with the 2-3 people who naturally end up next to you. Some of the best PDAC connections happen in small groups, not in the center of the crowd.
Day 4 (Wednesday, March 5): Closing Strong
Morning: Last chance for booth visits. Prioritize any companies where you had promising conversations but haven’t yet secured next steps.
Ask the crucial question: “What’s the best way to stay in touch about opportunities on your team?” Get specific names, email addresses, and timelines.
Before you leave Toronto: Send same-day thank-you messages to your top 5-10 contacts while you’re both still in “PDAC mode.”
What to Say at Booths (and What NOT to Say)
DON’T: Walk up and ask “Are you hiring?”
DO: “I noticed you’re expanding your exploration program in Nevada—I have six years of experience in that geology and I’d love to learn more about your team’s growth plans.”
DON’T: Hand your resume to the first person you see and walk away
DO: Have a 3-5 minute conversation first, establish rapport, then say “I’d love to leave my resume with you—would it be helpful if I walked you through how my background aligns with what you’re building?”
DON’T: Only talk to companies with open job postings
DO: Talk to companies you want to work for, period. Many mining jobs are filled through networking before they’re ever posted publicly. Your PDAC conversation might create a role that didn’t exist before you walked up.
4. The PDAC Follow-Up Formula That Gets Responses
Most job seekers fail at PDAC not because of bad networking, but because of bad follow-up. Here’s the system that works.
Within 24 Hours: Strike While the Iron Is Hot
Send personalized emails to your top-priority contacts while PDAC is still fresh in their minds.
Subject line: “Following up: [Specific topic you discussed] – PDAC 2026”
Example: “Following up: Lithium exploration in northern Ontario – PDAC 2026”
Short version email template (use this):
Hi [Name],
Great connecting at PDAC yesterday. I’ve been thinking about [specific thing you discussed], especially how my background in [your expertise] could support [their specific project/need].
I’ve attached my resume. Would you have 15 minutes next week to continue the conversation about [specific opportunity]?
Best,
[Your name]
[Phone number]
[LinkedIn URL]
Why this works:
- References a specific conversation (proves you’re not mass-emailing)
- Reminds them of your value without restating your entire pitch
- Makes the next step easy (a 15-minute call is low-commitment)
- Includes your resume without making it the focus
Longer version (if they specifically asked for more detail):
Hi [Name],
It was great connecting with you at your booth yesterday. I really appreciated your insights on [specific thing they said].
I’ve been thinking more about [topic you discussed]. As I mentioned, my background in [your expertise] aligns well with [their company’s needs/projects], particularly [specific example].
I’ve attached my resume for your reference. I’d welcome the opportunity to continue our conversation about [specific role or team or project]. Would you have 15 minutes in the next week or two for a quick call?
Thanks again for your time at PDAC.
Best,
[Your name]
[Phone number]
[LinkedIn URL]
Within One Week: Connect on LinkedIn
Send LinkedIn connection requests with personalized notes:
“Hi [Name], great meeting you at PDAC 2026. I enjoyed our conversation about [topic] and would love to stay connected as I explore opportunities in [area]. Looking forward to keeping in touch.”
Pro tip: Don’t send the LinkedIn request on the same day as your email. Spread your touchpoints out over a few days so you stay top-of-mind without being overwhelming.
The Two-Week Check-In
If you haven’t heard back from a priority contact within two weeks, send a brief follow-up:
“Hi [Name], I wanted to follow up on my email from [date] about potential opportunities with [Company]. I know things get busy after PDAC. Is there a better time to reconnect, or is there someone else on your team I should be speaking with about [specific role/area]?”
This shows persistence without being pushy, and gives them an easy out if they’re not the right contact.
The Long Game: Stay Visible
For companies you’re interested in but that aren’t hiring right now:
- Engage with their LinkedIn posts (thoughtful comments, not just “Great post!”)
- Set up Google Alerts for company news
- Reach out quarterly with relevant updates: “I saw your project just received approval—congratulations! I’m still very interested in joining your team when the timing is right.”
Mining operates on long cycles. A company that wasn’t hiring in March might be staffing up a new project by June. Staying on their radar pays off.
5. How TPD Can Help Your PDAC Strategy
Here’s what most people don’t know: The right recruiter conversation at PDAC can unlock opportunities you’d never find on your own.
TPD has been attending PDAC for nearly a decade, placing hundreds of professionals who connected with us at the convention. We know which companies are hiring, which roles they’re struggling to fill, and how to position candidates effectively.
When you visit TPD at Booth 7117N, we can help with:
Before You Hit the Floor:
- Resume review: We’ll tell you if your resume resonates with mining hiring managers or if it needs work
- Target company identification: We work with dozens of mining, semiconductor, and manufacturing companies—we can tell you which exhibitors are actively hiring right now
- Compensation reality check: We publish industry-specific compensation guides. Know your market value before negotiations begin.
Real-Time Intelligence:
- Warm introductions: If we’re working with a company you’re targeting, we can make introductions that carry more weight than cold booth approaches
- The hidden job market: Many roles we fill never get posted publicly. If your background matches an open search, PDAC is where that connection happens
Why This Matters:
The mining industry increasingly needs professionals who bridge traditional extraction expertise with high-tech capabilities—AI, automation, data science, advanced manufacturing, semiconductor technology. If your background spans these worlds, you’re exactly the candidate companies are desperate to find.
TPD’s unique positioning across Mining, Semiconductors, and Manufacturing means we can help you translate your experience in ways that mining companies understand and value.
Come prepared with:
- Your updated resume
- Your target company list
- Specific questions about roles you’ve seen posted or companies you’re interested in
We’ll give you honest feedback, real market intelligence, and potentially introduce you to opportunities you didn’t know existed.
The Biggest Mistakes PDAC Job Seekers Make (And How to Avoid Them)
After nearly a decade of placing candidates who found opportunities at PDAC, we’ve seen these mistakes kill promising connections:
Mistake #1: Treating it like a vacation. PDAC is work. Four intense days of networking, learning, and opportunity. Don’t skip sessions because you’re tired or spend half the day at your hotel. Show up with energy every single day.
Mistake #2: Only targeting the “big names.” Yes, everyone wants to work for the majors. But junior exploration companies, tech suppliers, and mid-tier producers often offer better opportunities for rapid advancement, meaningful responsibility, and skill development. Don’t be a snob about company size.
Mistake #3: Being too passive. “I’m just here to learn about the industry” won’t get you hired. Be direct about the fact that you’re seeking opportunities. Hiring managers respect candidates who are clear about their goals.
Mistake #4: Not following up. We cannot stress this enough: the fortune is in the follow-up. The person who sends a thoughtful email within 24 hours will beat the person with better credentials who waits a week every single time.
Mistake #5: Forgetting that mining is a relationship business. Mining professionals have long memories and tight networks. Be genuine, be professional, and be someone people want to work with. Your reputation starts the moment you walk into PDAC.
What’s Different About Mining in 2026: Context You Need
To be a compelling candidate at PDAC 2026, you need to speak the language of where the industry is heading. Here are the trends driving hiring:
The Digital Mine Revolution: Companies are implementing AI-driven exploration targeting, autonomous hauling systems, remote operation centers (ROCs), and digital twin technology. If you have experience in any of these areas—even from outside mining—you’re in demand.
The Critical Minerals Boom: The race to net-zero has created explosive demand for lithium, cobalt, nickel, copper, and rare earth elements. Companies focused on battery supply chains are hiring aggressively and often offer premium compensation.
ESG as a Core Competency: Environmental, Social, and Governance expertise is no longer a “nice to have”—it’s central to getting projects approved and funded. If you have experience in carbon management, water conservation, community engagement, or Indigenous relations, these skills are highly valued.
The Urban Mining Professional: The “Fly-In, Fly-Out” (FIFO) model is evolving. With Remote Operation Centres, many 2026 mining jobs are based in urban tech hubs (Vancouver, Toronto, Perth, Santiago) where professionals manage mine sites digitally. Ask recruiters about remote oversight models—your dream mining job might not require living on a mine site.
The Talent Crisis: Mining is experiencing a severe talent shortage, particularly in specialized technical roles. This is a job seeker’s market if you have in-demand skills. Use that leverage.
Your PDAC 2026 Pre-Flight Checklist
Two weeks before PDAC, make sure you’ve completed:
- Registered for PDAC 2026 (early registration deadline: February 6)
- Created target company list (15-20 companies)
- Researched key decision-makers on LinkedIn
- Updated and printed 50-75 resumes
- Saved PDF of resume on phone for QR code applications
- Crafted and practiced your elevator pitch
- Scheduled must-attend sessions and networking events
- Planned your TPD Booth 7117N visit
- Arranged business-casual professional attire and comfortable shoes
- Prepared business cards (200+)
- Downloaded the PDAC mobile app
- Reviewed current mining industry news and trends
- Set up a system for tracking conversations and follow-ups
Final Thoughts: Make These Four Days Count
PDAC 2026 isn’t just a convention—it’s a concentrated opportunity that happens once a year. Thousands of mining professionals will walk the Metro Toronto Convention Centre from March 1-4. Most will collect business cards and attend a few sessions. A select few will leave with job offers, partnerships, and career-changing connections.
The difference? Preparation, strategy, and follow-through.
Remember:
- Research your target companies before you arrive
- Craft a compelling elevator pitch that communicates value
- Be strategic about booth visits and networking events
- Build relationships, not just contacts
- Follow up within 24 hours
- Leverage specialized recruiters as partners, not obstacles
The mining industry is evolving faster than ever before, and that creates unprecedented opportunities for professionals who can bridge traditional mining expertise with high-tech capabilities. Whether you’re a seasoned geologist, a data scientist looking to enter mining, or an engineer from manufacturing or semiconductors, PDAC 2026 is where your next chapter begins.
Ready to Make Your Move?
Visit TPD at Booth 7117N during PDAC 2026, or schedule a meeting with our mining recruitment specialists in advance at info@tpd.com. We’ll help you identify the right opportunities, position yourself effectively, and navigate the hidden job market within those 1,300+ exhibitor booths.
We look forward to helping you turn four days in Toronto into your next career move.