Monica Tochor, P.Geo.
Monica Tochor, P.Geo., is a Senior Production Geologist and Underground Project Geologist with Mosaic Company. She is a graduate of the University of Saskatchewan (B. Sc in Geology).
I am a geoscientist because I love to explore.
My excitement for learning, combined with well-timed advice from my beloved Grade 8 science teacher Myles Gillespie, led me into the field of geology.
I was hooked after I spent two weeks at Dinosaur Country Science Camp. My creative energy was tuned to imagining the past: Archaeology, paleontology and, of course, geology had intruded my heart. I have been telling stories of earth science ever since.
Cluster of Gryphaea fossils in Lower Cretaceous Shale of the Lower Colorado Group (Joli Fou Formation)
I feel lucky to have realized nearly 20 years working and learning in Saskatchewan’s wide-ranging geology – field mapping, gold prospecting, exploration and mining and horizontal oil-well drilling before returning to the potash capital of the world.
From Esterhazy, I was raised with a familiarity of what mining is. Potash is certainly a big part of my life. These rocks have been prosperous and provided me with the ability to really learn what our earth has to offer. As I continue to navigate my career, I never miss a chance to satisfy my inner scientist. There has always been something about fossils that really inspires my passion for the past.
My most cherished fossil-find happened in 2014 during the shaft-sinking project at Mosaic Potash in Esterhazy. Involved with the technical geological aspects of the excavation, I was able to examine rocks that had only existed in core boxes in my experience.
My excitement was contagious. I had all kinds of deep-sea monsters and critters arriving on my desk accompanied by questions and a genuine interest in the earth beneath our feet. Finding specimens, evidence of ancient life, was a thrill.
I had an opportunity to really connect science to the job. Recovering things like gryphea (devil’s toenail), baculites (walking stick rock) and scaphites was something that I didn’t expect. Those names leave a lasting impression.
The best thing about being a geologist is that there is a chance to nurture interest and awe for the amazing world around us. Leave no stone unturned.