Johanna Ferguson’s journey started with a bachelor's degree in geological sciences. After working in the mining industry for a few years in environments ranging from greenfield exploration to producing underground and open pit mines, Johanna realized that she wanted to be part of the leadership team and shape the future of the industry. This curiosity led her to pursue an online Graduate Diploma of Business Administration at SFU Beedie, which later paved the way for her MBA.

My Journey

Johanna's decision to pursue an MBA was motivated by her desire to combine her technical experience with business education to help drive environmental change in mining. She chose SFU Beedie’s MBA program for its flexibility to explore different career paths within her current employer, Teck Resources.

“SFU Beedie’s MBA is very diverse in its courses offered and has given me a different perspective and multiple lenses from which to analyze problems. I’m now able to tackle problems from a more creative approach. My toolbox has grown, and I feel well equipped to take on almost anything.”

My experience at SFU Beedie

One of Johanna's favourite courses was business strategy, where she learned different analyses that she now applies regularly in her work. Johanna also took a course in innovation and entrepreneurship, which prepared her for her current intrapreneurial position at Teck Resources.

Apart from the skills she gained through courses, Johanna's MBA experience also allowed her to gain hands-on experience by participating in multiple case competitions throughout the program. “This helped me build courage and practice my presentation and collaboration skills which I use on a daily basis,” said Johanna.

Where I am today

Johanna's long-term career goal is to contribute to environment, health, and safety initiatives in the mining industry to help with decarbonization and reduce workplace injuries. Her MBA education equipped her with the necessary skills and knowledge to continue to speak up and encourage conversations around health and safety and sustainability initiatives.