The Western Canada Chapter held its 30th Annual Conference and General Meeting April 25 – 27, 2024, in Kamloops, British Columbia. On Thursday, ISEE’s Level 1 Construction Blasting was presented, and certificates were issued by ISEE to those who passed the quizzes. Dr. Anthony Konya presented a seminar on blast design.

On Friday, Worksafe BC conducted certification exams. A golf outing and clay shoot took place and a welcome reception and video roundup were held in the evening.

On Saturday, a full day of training took place after the annual general meeting. Officers selected included Jared Wells, President; Kira Sheehy and Alastair Grogan, Vice Presidents; Chris Elliott, Treasurer; Chris Fahr, Secretary; and Paul Jeannotte, Past President. Paul was thanked for his 3 years as President. Committee chairs and members were assigned.

After the annual general meeting, exhibits opened and a full day of presentations took place. Topics and speakers included:

• Explosives and Oilwell Perforation by Steve Wirenga
• Avalanche Blasting to Support Construction of a Hydroelectric Tunnel by Greg Johnson
• Keynote by Anthony Konya
• Carbon Monoxide Poisoning by Nadya Michel
• Panel Discussion on Human Factors in Blasting Operations by Jared Wells, Matt Floch, Kira Sheehy, and Chris Sherbinin
• Regulator Roundup by Tim Loblaw and Josee Boudreau
• Blasting Artificial Caves for Bat Habitat by Anders Frapell
• Slot Blasting Using Wireless Detonators in an Underground Mine by Paul Kuznik and Xavier Beneteau
• Bowron FSR Resurfacing Project by Jessica Ophus
• Danger Tree Blasting by Dazy Weymer

Following the day of training, a happy hour took place along with the conference banquet and entertainment by a mentalist and magic show. Andy Wells received the Ron Elliott Leadership Award for his tireless advocacy for the drilling and blasting industry and his critical role in the Western Canada Chapter’s continued success.

The next annual meeting will take place April 24 - 26, 2025, at the Coast Kamloops Hotel, Kamloops, British Columbia.