Vale, USW pledge $450K for mining safety research chair

Vale Base Metals and United Steelworkers Local 6500 pledged $450,000 toward establishing the Dr. Leo Gerard Research Chair in Occupational Safety and Health at Laurentian University during the PDAC Convention on March 2.

“Through this joint investment with USW Local 6500 we are investing in Laurentian University research capacity at the Centre for Research in Occupational Safety and Health. Applying this research will enhance worker protection and improve health and safety performance across our operations, the mining sector, and beyond.” Gord Gilpin, director of Ontario operations for Vale Base Metals, said.

The joint occupational health committee, representing both Vale Base Metals and USW Local 6500, channeled the funding through their collaborative governance structure. The committee directed these resources to Laurentian's Centre for Research in Occupational Safety and Health (CROSH) to strengthen safety initiatives across Vale's Ontario operations and the wider mining industry.

CROSH partners with industry to develop workplace health and safety solutions. The new research chair will operate within CROSH, focusing on research mobilization, training programs, and innovation to prevent injuries and protect workers, particularly in mining operations.

"This pledge is a direct result of the collaborative spirit and shared commitment between Vale Base Metals and USW Local 6500 through the JOHC. Directing these funds to CROSH and the Dr. Leo Gerard Chair is a powerful way to ensure that research, innovation, and training continue to drive a safer future for our members and the entire resource-based sector. Worker safety is non-negotiable, and we are proud to support this lasting legacy." Raymond Hammond, president of USW Local 6500, said.

The chair honours mining union icon Leo Gerard, who passed away in 2025 after serving as international president of the United Steelworkers. Gerard received an honourary degree from Laurentian University, founded CROSH as its inaugural chair, and earned recognition as a companion of the Order of Canada. He played a key role in expanding CROSH and developing its Mobile Lab facility.

Former Vale Inco chief operating officer Mark Cutifani leads fundraising efforts for the research chair, according to Laurentian's chief advancement officer Tracy MacLeod. She noted at the university's February 27 board meeting that the period following someone's death presents an opportunity to encourage memorial investments.

Interested donors can contribute online to support the research chair initiative.

Laurentian president Lynn Wells expressed appreciation for what she termed a visionary investment that accelerates the university's role as Canada's Mining University while strengthening connections between academic research and workplace safety applications. She called the pledge a fitting tribute to Gerard's decades of commitment to students, CROSH, and worker safety.