Kinross employees look on as MAPTS students present before their graduation ceremony.
General Manager Message
At Kinross Alaska, our shared aspiration is clear:
We aspire to drive sustainable growth and extended mine life by living our values – putting our people first, managing costs wisely, capturing margins and generating value from our assets – all while operating safely, with integrity and responsibility. We are proudly motivated to do this for our people, our communities and future generations. This goal demands not just operational excellence, but a collective commitment to innovation — especially in how we manage and hold the line on operating costs. Holding the line on costs assures the profitability of our future pipeline growth projects.
External forces — market volatility, energy costs, supply chain disruptions, evolving regulations and technological change — continue to reshape our industry. Internally, we’ve made strong progress and demonstrated resilience, but maintaining momentum requires something more: a dynamic approach to innovation that harnesses the power of our people.
That’s why we are launching a new Open Innovation Strategy — a company-wide initiative to tap into the creativity, experience and insight of every employee to generate practical, cost-effective ideas that support long-term value creation for Kinross Alaska.
Why Now?
While we have successfully demonstrated disciplined cost management relative to budget this year, we are also seeing potential for rising input costs and external pressures that may challenge our ability to meet our long-term financial targets for the next phases of mine life beyond Phase 10. This is not a crisis, but it is a clear signal. If we act now — together — we can close this gap before it widens.
This effort is not just about tightening belts. It’s about rethinking how we work, identifying inefficiencies, exploring smarter ways to do things or other technologies and streamlining operations in ways that do not compromise safety or quality, but instead strengthen our core capabilities.
Innovation from the Ground Up
Our task is to find ways to exploit what we do well — leveraging our strong technical expertise and operational knowledge — while also exploring new ways of working. This includes incremental improvements in our processes, architectural changes to how teams collaborate and potentially even low-cost disruptive innovations that rethink our approach to mining.
Our innovation strategy won’t come from the top down — it will come from you. No one understands our daily challenges better than the people who face them. Whether you’re on the front lines of extraction, supporting logistics or managing site safety, your ideas matter.
Three Ways To Innovate
We are building mechanisms to collect, evaluate and pilot these ideas quickly and transparently. Some may be small tweaks that save thousands; others could lead to breakthroughs that reshape how we operate. All will contribute to the same goal: a leaner, stronger Kinross Alaska well-positioned for the future.
A Shared Identity, A Shared Future
We also recognize that embracing innovation requires an evolution in how we see ourselves. As leaders and professionals, we take pride in our work and our identity. But as the world and our operating landscape changes, so must we. This transformation is not about abandoning who we are — it’s about expanding our identity to include being innovators, problem solvers and stewards of sustainability.
Let us be bold enough to question old assumptions, creative enough to test new ideas and united enough to move forward together.
Let’s build the future of Kinross Alaska, one idea at a time.
Thank you for all that you do.
Stay safe,
Terence Watungwa, Vice President and General Manager, Kinross Alaska
Employee Spotlight: HME Mechanic Troy McLaughlin
Where are you from?
Originally from Gresham, Oregon
What was your first job?
Toyo Tanso USA Inc., graphite metal plant
What brought you to Kinross?
Wanted to expand my mining background
What is one word that describes you?
Tiny
Favorite music?
Walt Disney tunes
Favorite food?
A good-size steak
Weirdest food you’ve eaten?
Scorpion candy sucker
Favorite place?
Oregon coast
What are three items you would take with you on a desert island?
Flint, cooking pot & pocket mirror
If you were to choose a place to visit & spend time at?
I would love to travel in Germany
What does your perfect weekend look like?
Spending time at home with my wife and new baby girl
Do you have a hobby or one that you want to try?
I love to tinker in my shop
Do you have any hidden talents?
No hidden talents to speak of
What was a proud achievement in your career?
Working with Caterpillar engineers on a long-term prototype haul truck
If you could pick any superpower, what would it be and why?
Super strength. Who wouldn’t want to be the Hulk?
Mini Miner Spotlight: Deloss Mattacchione
Welcome baby Deloss Mattacchione!
Champions of Mining
Here’s to another year of hard work, dedication and success! Thank you to our incredible team for making it all possible. Relive the moments that defined our year at the Champions of Mining Awards — celebrating our most precious resource: our people!
Award Winners:
Most Outstanding Shovel Operator “Gold Digger Award” – Timothy Johnston
Most Outstanding Truck Operator “Mountain Mover Award” – Maddie Chinchay
Most Outstanding Truck Operator “Mountain Mover Award” – Miguel Achil-Garcia
Most Outstanding Drill Operator – David Johnson
Most Outstanding Support Services Operator – Daniel Stewart
Most Outstanding Support Services Operator – Peter Mowrey
Most Outstanding Business Partner – Tristan Hubbard (Kiewit)
Most Outstanding Business Partner – Chad Hodgeman (BGT)
Most Outstanding Mill Operator – Nick Lloyd
Most Outstanding Heap Leach Operator/ Mechanic – Adam Hancock
Most Outstanding MEM Mechanic – Lance Violett
Most Outstanding Mill Maintenance Mechanic – Eric Richardson
Most Outstanding Technician – Lisa Conrad
Most Outstanding Technician – Ryan Stahl
Most Outstanding Technician – Brady Miller
GM Safety Award – Eric Bixler
Safety Excellence Team Award – Mill Maintenance Projects Team: Carlen Thiessen, Frank Zaldivar, Stewart Garth and Ben Vandermeer
GM Excellence In Safety Award
In 2024, Kinross Alaska achieved a remarkable milestone by producing 54 high-quality risk reductions across all areas of the mine. This achievement is a testament to the hard work and dedication of everyone involved in supporting and ensuring the successful implementation of these initiatives.
Among the many contributors, a small group of individuals stood out for their exceptional efforts in engineering risk out of the workplace. Ben Vandermeer, Stewart Garth, Frank Zaldivar and Carlen Thiessen were recognized in March at the Champions of Mining Banquet with the GM’s “Excellence in Safety” award for their outstanding contributions. Their dedication was further acknowledged onsite with personal plaques for “Engineering Excellence” in recognition of their pivotal roles in the implementation of these risk reductions.
The achievements of Ben, Stewart, Frank, Carlen and the entire team highlight the importance of teamwork, innovation and perseverance in safety. Their proactive approach and unwavering commitment have not only enhanced safety but also inspired their colleagues to strive for excellence. We extend our heartfelt gratitude to everyone involved for their exceptional contributions. Your efforts have made a significant difference, and we look forward to continuing this journey of safety beyond compliance together.
HAND INJURY PREVENTION: TIPS WHEN HANDLING POWER TOOLS
1. Use Personal Protective Equipment
Use a pair of gloves that fit your hands and the environment well. They shouldn’t inhibit your movement and impair dexterity.
2. Dress Right
Avoid wearing loose-fitting clothing or jewelry – remove dangling objects of any kind before you start working.
3. Educate Yourself
All handheld power tools come with instruction manuals, and these exist for good reasons. Even a split second of improper operation can cause serious injury.
4. Keep Your Work Area Clean
A hazardous work area can result in an injury. Your environment itself can pose a major risk to your safety. Keeping the workspace clean is vital to staying out of harm’s way.
5. Maintain a Firm Grip and Balance
As their name suggests, power tools are powerful. For that matter, it is of paramount importance to stay in control of them at all times. Besides using non-slip footwear, you also need to plant your feet and maintain a good balance. Don’t overreach and keep a firm grip while using a handheld power tool.
Losing control of the tool could easily create a hazardous situation, resulting in injury, or could lead to ergonomics issues such as pulled muscles, stretched tendons, etc.
Standard of the Month
§ 56.14103 Operators stations
(b) If damaged windows obscure visibility necessary for safe operation, or create a hazard to the equipment operator, the windows shall be replaced or removed. Damaged windows shall be replaced if absence of a window would expose the equipment operator to hazardous environmental conditions which would affect the ability of the equipment operator to safely operate the equipment.
We recently received a citation under this standard. Sometimes it is assumed this condition is only citable if the window damage obscures visibility. We need to act Above Compliance.
Goodest Girl Award
At our last site update, we took a special moment to honor a very important member of our Kinross family — Daisy Stewart, a beloved golden retriever who recently passed away. Known for her gentle spirit and joyful presence, Daisy was a regular volunteer at Kinross events and throughout the community, always bringing smiles wherever she went. In recognition of her paw-sitive impact, we presented the first-ever Goodest Girl Award in her memory. The award was lovingly accepted by her dad, Dave Stewart.
Community Investments & Outreach
Tanana Chiefs Conference
What an incredible evening at the Tanana Chiefs Conference Annual Welcome Reception with the Greater Fairbanks Chamber of Commerce! We are honored to sponsor this event each year, welcoming TCC delegates and our rural neighbors to town for a week of collaboration and meaningful discussions.
One of our favorite traditions? Bringing smiles with our signature ice cream bar! Seeing friends and family reunite over a sweet treat makes this kickoff event even more special.
A huge thank you to everyone who joined us to be part of such an important gathering that strengthens our communities.
UAF Arctic Innovation Competition
“Judging the Cub Division at AIC is always the highlight of April – it’s incredibly inspiring to see the kids in our community tackling everyday problems with creativity and innovation.”
-Josh Mattacchione Senior Operations Analyst
Started in 2009, the Arctic Innovation Competition (AIC) is Alaska’s original idea contest that awards $30,000 in cash prizes. A global competition, AIC invites participants to present groundbreaking solutions that address real-world challenges and foster innovation in the Isle of Man. The 2025 challenge spaned three sectors: FinTech, Cleantech and Data & AI. More information here.
Katie John School E-Gaming Program
During our recent village outreach meetings, the Manh Choh team visited the Katie John School in Mentasta and came away inspired by the creative ways educators are motivating students. One standout program is the use of e-gaming as a powerful incentive for academic success. The school’s gaming room is every kid’s dream — complete with music, neon lights and a variety of gaming platforms that make learning feel like a reward. Teachers shared how students are often eager to get to school, knowing that if they complete their work, they get time in the game room. It’s an innovative, student-centered approach that’s creating a fun, positive learning environment and making a real difference.
Interior Science Fair
Chris, Brian, and Mark proudly continued their annual tradition of volunteering as judges at the Interior Alaska Science Fair, sharing their passion for STEM and encouraging the next generation of curious minds. Their dedication to supporting youth education shines year after year, as they offer thoughtful feedback and celebrate the hard work of each student. Kinross once again sponsored this inspiring event, helping foster a love for science and innovation across Interior Alaska.
Military Appreciation Banquet
Kinross was honored to sponsor the Fairbanks Chamber of Commerce’s Military Appreciation Banquet this April, an incredible event that brought together over 500 attendees – more than 300 of whom were active military personnel from Fort Wainwright, Clear Space Force Base, Eielson Air Force Base and Fort Greely. The evening was a heartfelt celebration of service, leadership and community, recognizing the brave individuals who protect our nation and contribute so much to Interior Alaska. We are grateful for the opportunity to support and show appreciation for our military neighbors through this longstanding and meaningful tradition.
Fairbanks Ice Dogs Military Appreciation Game
In addition to sponsoring the Military Appreciation Banquet, Kinross supported the Military Appreciation Night with the Fairbanks Ice Dogs hockey team. It was a night filled with energy, community pride and gratitude for those who serve. One of the evening’s highlights was seeing our very own William Parmentier, a member of the Mine Ops team and a military service member, drop the ceremonial puck to kick off the game. It was a special moment that reflected the strong bond between our company, our team members and the military community we’re proud to support.
Tok/ AGSD Simulator
Recently, Manh Choh donated a state-of-the-art welding and equipment simulator to the Alaska Gateway School District to support hands-on career and technical education in the region. The simulators, now housed at the UAF Tok Campus, have already made a big impact — two full classes of students have enrolled to learn how to operate and utilize the equipment. This partnership is helping build real-world skills and spark interest in high-demand trades, all while expanding local training opportunities for students right in their own community.
IWD self-defense class
In honor of International Women’s Day, Kinross hosted a series of free self-defense classes aimed at empowering women with practical skills, confidence and a sense of community. Held in partnership with local instructors and advocacy organizations, the classes focused on awareness, prevention and hands-on techniques to help participants feel safer and more prepared. The response was overwhelmingly positive, and we’re excited to take this opportunity to Tok on April 30. It’s part of our continued commitment to promoting safety, strength and support for women across Alaska.
Employee Recipe: Thyme, Pork Chop and Pineapple Skillet Supper
Ingredients
- 1 tablespoon butter
- 1 apple – peeled, cored and 3 tbsp pineapple or apricot preserves, or jam or orange marmalade
- 3 tbsp orange juice
- 2 tsp stone-ground or Dijon mustard
- 1/2 tsp minced fresh ginger
- 1/2 tsp curry powder
- 4 fresh or canned pineapple rings, (1/2 inch thick), cut in half, any juice reserved
- 2 tsp butter
- 4 4-to-5 oz boneless pork loin chops, (1/2 inch thick), trimmed
- 2 tbsp chopped fresh thyme, divided
- 1/2 tsp salt
- 1/4 tsp freshly ground pepper
Instructions
- If the preserves are chunky, chop any large pieces. Combine preserves (or jam or marmalade), 3 tablespoons orange juice, mustard, ginger and curry powder in a small bowl; set aside. Pour pineapple juice into a measuring cup; if necessary, add enough orange juice to equal 1/3 cup total. Set aside.
- Heat butter in a large nonstick skillet over medium-high heat. Add pork chops, sprinkle with 1/2 tablespoon thyme, 1/4 teaspoon salt and 1/8 teaspoon pepper. Immediately turn them over and sprinkle with another 1/2 tablespoon thyme and the remaining salt and pepper. Cook the chops, turning occasionally and adjusting the heat as necessary, until browned, 3 to 4 minutes.
- Add the reserved juice to the pan. Reduce heat to medium and continue cooking until the chops are cooked through, 2 to 3 minutes more. Transfer to a platter and keep warm.
- Add pineapple, the reserved sauce and the remaining 1 tablespoon thyme to the pan. Cook, stirring, until hot and bubbling, 1 to 2 minutes. To serve, spoon the sauce onto the chops and pineapple.
Welcome to Kinross Alaska
March to April
| Name | Position |
|---|---|
| Elizabeth Mikita | Mill Operator |
| Gil Heggland | Geology Technician |
| Kirsten Albino | Snr Resource Geologist |
| Billy Wayne Eldridge | Mill Operator |
| Gilbert Maycumber | HME Mechanic |
| David Rockwell | Equipment Operator |
| Kaden Arias | Equipment Operator |
| Richard Lusby | Mill Operator |
| Ted Griffin | Mill Operator |
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