Carman Stevens is focused on the future

When Carman Stevens joined the Ecometrix team in 2024, she brought two decades of experience in environmental science and mine closures, as well as a wealth of insight from working with copper, nickel, zinc, gold, and diamond mines.

Carman Stevens, Senior Mine Closure Specialist

Today, Carman is putting that insight into action as our Senior Mine Closure Specialist, working on projects ranging from operational mines to legacy sites, some that have long been out of commission.

No matter the project, for Carman, it’s about taking a collaborative approach with clients to help them understand that the earlier they consider closure, and the more often they revisit those plans, the better it is for both the environment and their bottom line.

In doing so, clients “can avoid surprises that might end up costing millions—like needing an unexpected water treatment plant, or having to relocate large volumes of mine rock,” she explains. “We’re here to help them understand those implications, support their decision making and guide them through the entire lifecycle—from operations all the way to closure.”

Carman’s journey into mining started while studying for a degree in conservation and restoration ecology at Laurentian University in Sudbury. While working on mine closure projects across Ontario, she completed a Master of Science in Biology and Mine Reclamation at Laurentian University.

Mine closure was something Carman moved towards and has become a passion of hers. “Originally, from a natural perspective of revegetation and reclamation, but over time it evolved into something more multifaceted,” she says. “Now, it’s really about bringing in a mix of skill sets and managing all the moving parts. When you’re looking at a mine site, you can’t just focus on one piece. It has to be holistic. You need to keep sight of the bigger picture and ensure the high-level client and project requirements are always front and center.”

Carman working on test plots from her Masters project.

Taking an integrated approach is a key part of Ecometrix’s practice, so the mindset is a perfect fit.

“I’ve worked at several large companies—both consulting and mining—and now at Ecometrix. Our team culture here is different, and I find that our approach to integrated projects promotes greater cooperation. When a project requires significant integration—not just across technical domains, but across people and roles—it becomes easier to gather meaningful input from team members. This kind of collaboration doesn’t just blend different specialties; it builds a stronger, more connected team. And, ultimately, it helps keep the client’s needs and the overall goals of the project in focus.”

While Carman has years of experience under her belt, she’s quick to say she’s still learning every day, and dynamic and unexpected challenges are part and parcel of working on mine sites.

“The general approach may be similar from site to site,” Carman explains, “but even with something like a gold mine, no two are exactly the same. The host rock or the way the ore is processed can lead to very different challenges—especially when it comes to waste management or water quality perspective.”

For those looking to pursue a career in mining or join the Ecometrix team, Carman says there’s no shortage of opportunities. “There are so many ways to learn about all aspects of mining here,” she says. “Whether you’re a geochemist, hydrologist, hydrogeologist, biologist, or chemist, working in such an integrated environment gives you the chance to not only apply your technical expertise but grow and explore other areas. You’re never limited to just one lane, unless that’s what you prefer."

Outside of work, Carman loves spending time with her family, in the garden, and walking and hiking.