By ColdBlock CEO S. Craig West
This past week, the ColdBlock Technologies Inc. team had the privilege of attending the Prospectors & Developers Association of Canada (PDAC)conference in Toronto, and it was truly an exceptional event. We had the opportunity to engage with industry leaders and connect with both existing and new, potential customers. Energized by the experience and feeling optimistic about the future of the industry, we couldn’t help but reflect on the key takeaways from the event.
1. In-Person Events Foster Relationships in Ways Virtual Interactions Simply Can’t
Over the past five years, we’ve adapted to the virtual world, discovering new ways to do business that weren’t possible before. However, nothing can truly replace the value of in-person interactions. Face-to-face events provide an invaluable opportunity to connect with both customers and industry peers, building rapport that simply can’t be achieved through a screen. We had some really meaningful conversations this week, learning more about customer needs, discussing ongoing projects, and responding to insightful questions. Technology is great but we really enjoyed engaging face-to-face with customers and partners this week.
2. Live Demonstration of Technology was Invaluable
At our booth, we showcased a ColdBlock Pro Series CBM digester. Visitors had the chance to see the technology in action. They witnessed firsthand how simple ColdBlock is to use, setting new methods in minutes with our proprietary software, and experiencing its one touch operation. We conducted numerous demonstrations, allowing customers to experience how simple it is to operate, clean, and maintain the system.
3. Innovation Abounds and is Key to Success
It was great to see an even greater focus on innovation this year; from the largest producers to smallest industry support services. This sector has always needed to find ways to increase efficiencies while improving workplace safety and protecting the environment, and it was reassuring to see new technologies being developed to achieve this (and a real, honest interest in adopting them).
4. Government Can Play a Key Role in Advancing the Industry
It was great to see the number of government booths from around the world – all promoting the mining sector in their regions. We had the opportunity to speak with several government agencies offering to establish connections and provide resources to help bring a leading technology like ColdBlock to industry leaders their respective countries.
5. Assay Backlogs are Still an Issue – ColdBlock is the Key
From exploration, to mining operations, to milling performance, to environmental monitoring and remediation – the pace of the mining industry is set by the pace of assaying. We continued to hear frustration over long assay turnaround times, and high costs for expedited results. ColdBlock offers a simple, safe, efficient solution to reduce backlogs and accelerate assaying in the mining sector.
Thank You to All
We are grateful to everyone who visited our booth, and for all the meaningful conversations and connections made at PDAC. Our follow-up process is already underway, and we’re excited to continue working with you. We also look forward to seeing you at PDAC2026.
