When not advising clients, Siddorn devotes time and energy towards promoting his profession and helping young people pursue careers in the industry. He has taught more than 30 Applied Structural Geology courses to over 1000 geologists
and engineers. This includes courses at conferences of the Prospectors and Developers Association of Canada (PDAC), the Association for Mineral Exploration British Columbia, and the Society of Economic Geologists (SEG). In
his presentations, Siddorn focuses on teaching participants how to apply structural geology effectively in their workplaces.
“I aim to get people excited about structural geology by showing that it’s easier to apply than many of them realize,” he said. “Raising technical awareness and abilities empowers people and improves overall industry standards.”
Siddorn
also promotes geology in his roles as industry sponsor for the University of Toronto’s SEG Student Chapter, contributor to the Canadian Mining Innovation Council’s exploration initiative, and member of the PDAC’s convention
committee. He volunteers for the PDAC because he believes in its value to the industry.
“The PDAC plays an active role in promoting our industry within and outside Canada,” he said. “The annual convention provides an
excellent opportunity for people to get together, helping drive the industry forward.”
Siddorn’s knowledge and achievements make him an outstanding role model for young geologists. His advice for them is both academic
and practical. While he recommends post-graduate study, he stresses that the research undertaken should be closely linked and beneficial to industry. He also believes strongly in the importance of travel.
“Working overseas
opens your eyes to new environments, to people from different backgrounds and cultures,” he said. “It helps make you a more rounded person.”
