Resource World Magazine

www.resourceworld.com 55 F E B R U A R Y / M A R C H 2 0 1 4 MININGWORLD Resource exploration and development takes time and money - usually a lot of both. The degree to which both money and time are used efficiently determines whether a proj- ect will even make it to the development stage. In the resource industry, successful service providers offer resource companies comprehensive solutions that can save them both. Matrix Helicopter Solutions & Exploration Logistics is a one-stop service provider able to plan and provide project specific aviation and exploration logistics to clients in the resource and service sectors across Canada, including the High Arctic. Matrix provides ongoing support through - out the duration of a project taking care of the many details involved in planning and managing a project, "which provides clients with the ability to focus their time and energy on the exploration program itself, rather than the ongoing management of logistics." This includes: analysis/definition of the most effective means of moving equipment and people, sourcing and managing all aspects of a camp, sourcing the "best fit" of equipment, analysis/definition of pilot/engineer skills, definition/review of insurance coverage car - ried by operators, review of Operator Safety Record and pilot safety/competency records, safety audits. Matrix maintains a database of hundreds of rotor and fixed wing operators and a myriad of logistics suppliers. Matrix's owns and operates a terminal and warehouse facility at the Yellowknife Airport. These premises allow the loading of cargo and crew from one location, regard - less of which operator or aircraft is used. The company states that, "This location also places Matrix in the unique position of hav- ing the flexibility to source out-of-region aircraft during periods of high demand." Matrix does not own a fleet of helicopters; instead they have built a knowledge base with major suppliers and can choose from a broad range of equipment, pilots and engi - neers to suit individual client needs to meet specific project requirements including pro- viding a variety of modes of transportation: helicopter, fixed wing, trucks, and snow- mobiles. Matrix has available Bombardier BR2000 Snowcats for movement of fuel, drills, and for the construction of ice strips in remote locations. The relationships that Matrix has estab - lished allow them to provide their clients with savings. A further advantage is that clients do not have to invest the time vetting services, establishing accounts and building relationships. Matrix does more than just adding value through aviation specific project deliver - ables. The company provides comprehensive camp services including sourcing, construc- tion and set up. Camp sizes range from one person emergency shelters to full 1,000 per- son camps. Matrix also provides ongoing camp management services to work camps providing camp mangers trained in first aid, firearms and wildlife management. Matrix also provides expertise in the areas of communication, plumbing electrical, aircraft loading and field logistics. The com - pany's unique business model enables them to service all aspects of camp management including: planning, management (process, records, logistics), negotiation (suppliers, personnel), purchasing, recruitment, inven - torying, movement, food and beverages supplies, construction materials, construc- tion (labour, materials, staff), and camp staff. Matrix also provides secure core and sample services with minimal handling and tracking from camp to laboratory. Fuel storage and availability is a critical aspect of most resource projects and requires expertise to ensure that it is done cost effec - tively. Matrix analyses fuel requirements during the planning process, and then man- ages fuel sourcing, timing and purchase. Services also include fuel transportation, storage secondary containment, and drum crushing and/or removal. The company is also experienced in the deployment and use of on-site voice-over IP (VoIP) and supporting computer services. Matrix can also provide communication devices such as handheld and mobile radio services to enable the sharing of data such as geological results with offsite offices; access to financial and accounting information; ease of supply ordering and onsite commu - nication. Matrix also provides camp clean-up services, including the daily disposal of waste products. Lead by founders Martin Knutson and Dan Tuepah, the Matrix group is a diverse team of specialists with extensive experience in all aspects of this industry. n The Kaman KMAX helicopter in a precision long-line operation in Fort McMurray, Alberta. Photos courtesy of Matrix Helicopter Solutions & Exploration Logistics. Matrix – experts in aviation management and exploration logistics By Kathrine Moore

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