Why We Give: Nathalie Poznanski & Teck Resources

One of Canada’s leading mining companies, Teck Resources Limited (Teck) has partnered with Science World since 2021 to bring STEAM learning to more people. “We're very aligned with our values,” says Nathalie Poznanski, Teck’s Global Manager, Social Performance. “Investing in youth education is essential to building strong, resilient communities for the future.”

As a company headquartered in Vancouver with operations and projects across BC, Teck looks to Science World’s province-wide reach to ignite interest in science and nature, “which are core to Teck and the mining industry.”

“Mines are mostly located in remote places, not near large cities, so people don't see it every day, even though they interact with mining products daily from their phones, to transportation to the buildings they live and work in,” says Nathalie. “People don’t always think of mining when they envision STEAM career pathways. Science World can help bridge those education opportunities and knowledge gaps about industries like mining.”

Creating new memories

“I remember visiting Science World when I was growing up,” laughs Nathalie. “I have wonderful childhood memories there, like learning about the wonders of the cosmos in the OMNIMAX Theatre.”

While it’s no longer OMNIMAX, Science World has big plans for reopening its Dome Theatre as part of its Future is Nerdy campaign. We’re raising funds to revitalise the much-loved space, turning it into an immersive experience like no other in the Lower Mainland. Think state-of-the-art, 8K digital projection system with surround sound audio, bringing to life everything from Hollywood blockbusters to laser lightshows, to keynote events and livestreams.

Today, Nathalie’s Science World story continues with two kids aged five and one. “They love Science World.” Nathalie smiles. “From Wonder Gallery to all the different exhibits.” Right now, visitors to Science World’s Search: Sara Stern Gallery can explore the Geology exhibit, presented by Teck, which is the newest section in the gallery.

On gender equality

One of Science World’s community engagement programs is Girls and STEAM, presented by STEMCELL Technologies, which encourages young women and gender diverse folks to see themselves in STEAM careers. Is there any advice Nathalie could share as someone in a STEAM-based industry? “Take the time to build your personal community of women and girls in STEAM. It’s helps to feel connected to other women on a similar career path or with similar interests, whether they’re in your organization or not.

“Don’t be afraid to reach out and ask somebody to meet with you, even for a short coffee. Just have conversations to get to know people and learn how they got where they are.”

Social performance

Farther afield, Teck has operations and development projects “throughout the Americas, from Alaska all the way to Chile” says Nathalie. “And we do exploration in other jurisdictions around the world.” She explains how she leads their approach to social performance company-wide.

“It's shaping our strategies and providing standards and tools to develop strong relationships with communities and Indigenous Peoples, manage impacts collaboratively, and work to make sure the value created by our presence is aligned with communities’ own goals.”

So what gives her hope for the future?

“Sometimes progress can feel slow, but when I take a step back, I see how much the industry has transformed in how we understand our responsibility to communities and society, and now looking to our role in the energy transition. I have a lot of hope for the future because of our capacity to adapt and evolve.”