Musher at the start line in the 2025 Junior North American Championships
General Manager Message
The first quarter of 2025 is coming to an end soon and I’m happy to report that we are largely on track to achieve our goals for the quarter and the year. I want to take this opportunity to express my gratitude to the exceptional work you are doing.
Safety
On safety, I’m excited to announce the launch of our global health and safety brand, Safeground. Safeground is our global approach to health and safety at Kinross, empowering every level of our organization to learn and contribute to the continuous improvement of our operations.
We believe that an environment built on trust, collaboration and learning results in work that makes it easier for everyone to achieve safe and successful outcomes.
Frontline workers play a pivotal role in this, and their opinions and expertise are valued as critical components in every health and safety initiative.
By aligning everyone to the Safeground principles, we can simplify safe working practices, ensure a fail-safe environment and foster a culture in which people feel valued and safe to speak up.
The six Safeground principles are:
- People are the solution – Our people create the solutions that improve the safety of work.
- Humility is a superpower – Engaging with humility helps us to listen and learn.
- Errors are normal – Resilient systems help minimize the consequences of errors.
- Learning over blame – Focus on learning and improvement over blame and punishment.
- How we respond matters – Respond to promote learning, build trust and encourage people to speak up.
- Context drives behavior – Understand the contextual elements that influence worker performance.
The Safeground principles serve as our “North Star,” helping us to stay on course towards our organizational goals of building a better and safer future for everyone. They direct us in making the right choices, for the right reasons, particularly when there is pressure to make poor decisions.
You will soon see more information on Safeground, and I encourage you to join the conversation for safety as we strive to create a better future for everyone at Kinross Alaska and our loved ones.
Production
After a challenging February, which was characterized by low mill throughput driven by unplanned downtime and persistent material flow issues, I’m thrilled that we are now on track to beat the Q1 budget of 90.5K oz. Thanks to the resilience, creativity, commitment and resourcefulness of our operational teams. Beyond Q1, we will remain focused on safely achieving the goal of 365K oz. for 2025 Kinross Alaska Attributable Production (Fort Knox and Manh Choh), as well as completing the full range of key site projects, including: Phase 10 Capital Stripping, Manh Choh Ore Transportation, Manh Choh Processing Efficiency Studies, Pit Dewatering and Heap Leach Recovery.
Long Term
We aspire to drive sustainable growth by living our values – putting our people first, managing costs wisely, maximizing margins and increasing profitability – all while operating with integrity and responsibility. The more we build long-term cost sustainability, the more we can increase our mineral reserves and resources, hence increasing mine life to the 2030s and beyond. We also need to continuously innovate and adapt quickly to performance gaps and seize opportunity gaps.
Together, we create value that lasts.
Through prioritizing safety, embracing a high-performance mindset and working collaboratively, we will continue to achieve great things. Let’s keep building on our success — safely and together.
Thank you for all that you do.
Stay safe,
Terence Watungwa, Vice President and General Manager, Kinross Alaska
Employee Spotlight: Manh Choh IT Technician Chue Thao
1. Where are you from?
Anchorage originally until 2020, but moved to Oklahoma until November of 2024, and here I am.
2. What was your first job?
My first job was as a teenager at Taco Bell, then a letter carrier in Owasso, Oklahoma, from April 2021 to November 2024.
3. What brought you to Kinross?
My friend, Mong, who works as a Surveyor at Manh Choh, told me about this job and that I should apply since I’ve always liked and have been interested in IT.
4. What is one word that describes you?
Efficient.
5. Favorite music?
My favorite go-to music is “Just the Two of Us” by Bill Withers.
6. Favorite food?
Pho.
7. Weirdest food you’ve eaten?
Raw beef larb, a traditional Laos/Thai food that is usually mixed with a little bit of cow bile for a bitterness.
8. Favorite place?
I would say my favorite place would be my home since that’s where I can be myself without bothering anyone else.
9. What are three items you would take with you on a deserted island?
A magnesium fire starter, a water filter bottle, a machete.
10. Do you prefer dogs or cats?
Dogs.
11. What does your perfect weekend look like?
Family camping trips like the old days before everyone moved to other states.
12. Do you have a hobby or one that you want to try?
I want to try snowboarding or skiing as I have never done that before, even though I’ve lived in Alaska a majority of my life.
13. Do you have any hidden talents?
Nope.
14. Do you like to travel?
Yes, I do like traveling, although I haven’t done much of it yet. It would be nice to travel to places I’ve never seen before in person.
15. If you could pick any superpower, what would it be and why?
The superpower to jump through time because I would be able to relive a specific moment in time and enjoy those moments as it was meant to be.
What’s an OLT?
OLT stands for “operational learning team.” The purpose of such a team is to gain a clearer understanding of how work gets performed compared with how we might assume it gets done. To achieve this, it is essential that OLTs are primarily composed of individuals who are directly involved in the relevant work.
Additional team members may include those who support the primary workforce, which allows for valuable suggestions and input on potential improvements and solutions. The primary workforce, known as subject-matter experts (SMEs), may also be asked to share their experiences and help define the problem statement that the team is addressing.
In March 2024, we began our journey into learning teams. We trained 18 people in facilitation and another 27 in general awareness and support. Some of our early learning teams in 2024 revealed that we needed more training and practice, and we want to take this opportunity to recognize that our initial operational learning teams did not define the scope as we should have. Subsequently, teams did not achieve the success we had hoped for. However, throughout the year, we continued executing learning teams with increasing success, particularly toward the end of the year, with OLTs such as the Drill Steel Damage and Fire Suppression Reliability initiatives.
Now, in 2025, our priorities are aligning as we focus on quick-win initiatives across the site that can deliver immediate value to different departments. Our goal is to communicate OLT results more effectively to the workforce and to empower individuals to champion new OLT ideas moving forward. We are now collecting OLT suggestions through an online form. Whether it’s a small problem or a big opportunity on site, we are committed to conducting an OLT to address it.
Environmental Department Update
Changes in the way we handle laboratory waste and used leather
Recent enforcement cases at Alaska’s metal mines have resulted in revised waste management practices in the way we dispose of laboratory waste and used leather goods.
Disposal of laboratory waste:
On Feb. 25, 2025, Fort Knox Mine reached a settlement with the Environmental Protection Agency (EPA) regarding alleged violations of the Resource Conservation and Recovery Act (RCRA) at its on-site laboratory. These allegations arose from a routine, unannounced inspection on May 10, 2022.
The issue involved the disposal of lab materials from mine sample testing, which were placed in the Fort Knox tailings facility. The total volume was less than five gallons per day, with no impact to employees, neighbors, the environment or fish and wildlife.
Like other large metal mines in Alaska, Fort Knox operated under the understanding that such lab materials were exempt from RCRA regulations. The EPA disagreed. While we believe this interpretation is incorrect, litigation was not a practical option. Upon notification, Fort Knox promptly adjusted its procedures to comply with the EPA’s stance.
Fort Knox’s settlement amount is $275,000.
Disposal of leather goods:
EPA has classified leather goods as hazardous waste upon disposal. As a result, we are now collecting leather items, such as aprons, boots, chaps and gloves, in designated containers on site.
While it remains safe to wear leather goods, this classification stems from the tanning process, which often involves chromium, a heavy metal that poses environmental risks if not disposed properly. Chromium can contaminate soil and water over time.
What this means for you:
- Do not dispose of leather goods in unmarked bins, trashcans or landfills.
- Use designated collection containers on-site for leather waste.
- Environmental teams are evaluating alternatives to traditional leather or exploring options from different tanning processes.
Your cooperation is essential in helping us maintain environmental responsibility. If you have any questions about disposal or alternative materials, please reach out to the Environmental team.
Thank you for your attention and commitment to sustainability!
GM for a Day
GM for a Day went off without a hitch yet again. Deena Greely and Matt Core from Crew 2 discussed important information with General Manager Terence Watungwa about concerns some employees had regarding fire extinguisher placement on equipment. They all planned a follow-up based on those concerns.
Deena and Matt enjoyed their experience and thought it was very informative. “Being GM for a day was a great opportunity to see what happens behind the scenes,” Deena said. “Having the chance to be a part of our GM Terence’s busy day was educational on all the steps taken by the whole team and making our mine, home away from home, run smooth and safe.”
Both concluded with a big thank you for the wonderful opportunity.
Celebrating Women’s History Month at Kinross Alaska!
This month, we honor the women shaping the future of mining — leading teams, mastering equipment, driving innovation and ensuring safety and sustainability. Their dedication proves that talent and determination know no boundaries.
We celebrate the women powering Alaska’s mining sector with Usibelli Coal Mine, Northern Star Pogo, Lat 65 Brewing Co., Beyond Birch Co. and Uqaqti Consulting.
To all the women in mining — your resilience and leadership inspire us every day. Here’s to breaking barriers and building the future!
Black History in Alaska: Roshier Creecy’s Legacy
Born in Virginia in 1866, Roshier Creecy was among the first generation of African Americans free to migrate after the Civil War. Seeking opportunity beyond the racial barriers of the South, he joined the U.S. Army’s Ninth Cavalry—the legendary Buffalo Soldiers—before venturing into the North.
Drawn by the Klondike Gold Rush in 1898, Roshier prospected near Dawson and later owned a roadhouse that housed the North-West Mounted Police. In 1906, he mushed his dog team into Alaska, becoming the first African American to live and mine in the Koyukuk gold fields, where he remained for the rest of his life.
His story is a vital piece of Alaska’s gold rush history, offering a unique perspective on the diverse pioneers who shaped the North.
Local Vendor Spotlight: Alaska Flour Company
At Kinross, supporting local businesses is a value we hold close to our hearts. We recenty had a special visit from Milo and Bryce Wrigley, the father-son duo behind Alaska Flour Company! They stopped by our campus to deliver some delicious pizzas we purchased — each made with care and quality local ingredients.
It’s partnerships like these that keep our community strong and thriving. Thank you, Milo and Bryce, for fueling our team with your amazing creations!
February Hand Injury Prevention Tip
This month, we will focus on hand-operated valve wheels, levers and controls that could be a potential for hand or finger injuries.
In the workplace, it is common to come across these items installed close to other solid things such as pipe, handrails, etc. that create potential pinch points when the valve wheel, lever or control is operated by the hand. Often, this condition is unrecognized as a potential for hand or finger injury by the user until an injury occurs.
If we use our higher level of focus, we have total awareness and conduct a field-level risk assessment on such conditions, we can be proactive and prevent injury.
If this condition is recognized, the best course of action is to eliminate the pinch point by changing things.
However, if this is not feasible, you could possibly place a sticker or sign by the valve wheel, lever or control warning of the potential pinch point. If you look around your work area and/or equipment you’re working on or near – using your higher level of focus and awareness – you may be surprised by the number of these conditions that exist.
Standard of the Month
§ 56.11003 Construction and maintenance of ladders: Ladders shall be of substantial construction and maintained in good condition.
Insights – if a damaged ladder is found in the workplace, whether in use or not, MSHA will issue a citation under this standard. If a damaged ladder is identified in the workplace, it must be taken from the workplace and properly disposed. We received a citation under this standard during the last EO 1 inspection. We have received six citations under this standard in the last four years.
Roger donates amazing gold collection to University of Alaska Museum of the North
Roger Burggraf, a highly respected leader in Alaska’s mining industry, is donating his personal gold collection to the University of Alaska Museum of the North! This incredible collection spans nearly 50 years and showcases the rich history of gold mining in our state.
To honor Roger’s legacy, the museum is working to create a new exhibit featuring his gold nuggets, dust, and ore samples, along with personal stories and insights from miners past and present.
Learn more at https://www.uaf.edu/aurora/archives/spring-2025/the-man-who-gave-away-his-gold.php.
Poland wins ESGR Patriot Award
At Kinross Fort Knox, we take immense pride in supporting our employees who serve in the National Guard and Reserve. Today, we are honored to celebrate Danny Poland, who has been recognized with the Patriot Award by the Employer Support of the Guard and Reserve (ESGR).
The Patriot Award is given to supervisors who go above and beyond in supporting our nation’s citizen warriors. Danny’s dedication to providing flexible schedules, granting necessary leave, and ensuring that service members and their families feel valued and supported exemplifies the Golden Heart spirit of our community. His leadership makes a meaningful difference in the lives of those who serve our country while also contributing to the success of Fort Knox.
Please join us in congratulating Danny on this well-deserved recognition! We are proud to have leaders like him at Kinross Fort Knox.
Did you see our Super Bowl ad?
Our people always bring home the win. Every day. Thanks for making us look good, Richie, and everyone who has been generous enough to be featured in our “I Am Mining” campaign. It’s important to both our mission and our state for Alaskans to have a better understanding of what we do and who we are. Bottom line, the vast majorities of the teams at Fort Knox and Manh Choh are Alaskans who live in the community and are dedicated to doing it right.
Employee Recipe: Applesauce Pork Chops
Ingredients
- 1 tablespoon butter
- 1 apple – peeled, cored and sliced
- 1¼ cup chopped onion
- 2 (1/2-inch thick) pork chops
- 1½ teaspoon salt
- ground black pepper to taste
- 3/4 cup applesauce
- 2 tablespoons brown sugar
- 1½ teaspoon ground mustard
- 1½ teaspoon ground cinnamon
Instructions
- Preheat the oven to 375 degrees F (190 degrees C).
- Melt butter in a large skillet over medium heat; cook and stir apple and onion in melted butter until tender, about 5 minutes. Transfer apple and onion mixture to a bowl.
- Place pork chops in the same skillet over medium heat; cook until pork chops are browned, about 5 minutes per side. Place pork chops in a 9 x 9-inch baking dish; season with salt and black pepper.
- Mix applesauce, brown sugar, mustard and cinnamon into apple and onion mixture. Spoon over pork chops.
- Bake, covered, in the preheated oven until pork chops are no longer pink in the center, 30 to 45 minutes. An instant-read thermometer inserted into the center should read at least 145 degrees F (63 degrees C).
Welcome to Kinross Alaska
January to March
| Name | Position |
|---|---|
| Tyman O’Reilly | MEM Mechanic |
| Justin Andrew | Geotechnician |
| Ryan Joe | Geotechnician |
| Ernest Forgach | Environmental Technician |
| Michael Bonar | MEM Mechanic |
| Katrina Campbell | Geology Technician |
| Kiran Gibbs | Buyer Supply Chain |
| Troy McLaughlin | HME Mechanic |
| Shelby Lamm | HME Mechanic |
| Cooper Lewis-Lizer | Mill Operator |
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