Hexagon sponsors emergency response competition in support of safer mines

SUDBURY, ON, CANADA, Hexagon has been named the title sponsor of the Intercollegiate Mine Emergency Response Competition (IMERC) to be held 17-20 February in Sudbury, Ontario.

Hosted by the Laurentian University Mine Rescue Club, IMERC 2026 will bring together student mine rescue teams from across Canada and the United States for a week of intensive competition, training, and skills development. The event challenges students through realistic underground rescue scenarios, mass-casualty first aid exercises, and technical problem-solving designed to reflect the pressures of real-world mine emergencies.

“This competition represents the culmination of nearly a year's worth of dedication and commitment from the entire LU Mine Rescue Club, with extensive planning and coordination led by our team and alumni,” David Langley of the LU Mine Rescue Club said.

“Opportunities like this really make a difference in our education as students, and help us to become better, smarter, and more safety-focused engineers. The competition brings together students from across North America in a shared passion for mine rescue, fostering camaraderie, collaboration, and learning from one another.

“We couldn't have done it without the generosity of all of our sponsors, especially Hexagon. It's such an honour to have the support of a company whose ethos of safety aligns so well with ours; this event truly wouldn't be possible without the support of Hexagon. We extend our sincerest gratitude to the mine rescue community and Ontario Mine Rescue for their continued overwhelming support. "

As a long-standing supporter of mining education and safety, Hexagon’s sponsorship reflects its belief that safer mines begin with well-prepared people, and that investing in students today helps ensure everyone gets home safely after their shift tomorrow.

“The mine of the future depends on the miners of the future,” said Dave Goddard, president of Hexagon’s Mining division. “Supporting initiatives like IMERC is about more than competition. It’s about helping students build the skills, confidence, and safety-first mindset they will carry into their careers. These experiences shape how future leaders respond under pressure, look out for one another, and put safety at the centre of every decision.”

Founded in 2015, the Laurentian University Mine Rescue Club is a student-run organisation dedicated to preparing the next generation of mining professionals for high-risk, high-responsibility environments. The 2026 competition is expected to involve 80 to 100 participants, including students, coaches, and judges, and will conclude with a banquet celebrating teamwork, resilience, and excellence in mine rescue.

Hexagon’s support of IMERC forms part of its broader commitment to advancing mining education, safety, and operational excellence worldwide. Through partnerships with universities, student organisations, and industry bodies, Hexagon works to ensure future miners are equipped not only with advanced technology, but with the practical skills and safety awareness required to operate responsibly in modern mining environments.

By sponsoring IMERC 2026, Hexagon is proud to stand alongside students, educators, and industry partners who share a common goal: building a safer, more resilient mining industry for generations to come.