Kirk brings a broad geologic background, extensive experience in geologic research and both underground and open-pit mining, and an affinity for magmatic-hydrothermal mineral systems. His expertise spans geologic mapping, drillhole planning, rock and soil sampling, core logging, geochemical analysis, geologic interpretation and modeling, and even volcano monitoring. He holds B.Sc., M.Sc., and Ph.D. degrees in geology and has worked across a wide range of geologic environments in the western United States, Turkey, Mexico, Alaska, and New Zealand.
At the platinum-palladium Stillwater Mine in Montana, Kirk worked as an underground geologist where he face-mapped, estimated sulfide percentages, and managed mining azimuth and width across multiple headings. As a development geologist, he helped define the orebody by planning and logging drillholes and updating the geologic model.
Most recently, as a Senior Geologist for Rio Tinto at the Bingham Canyon Mine, Kirk managed core-logging workflows, improving efficiency by implementing metrics, streamlining drillhole reviews, and leading technical discussions with team members. In the open pit, he produced detailed highwall geologic maps and collected comprehensive geologic and geotechnical data across a complex polymetallic deposit. Kirk looks forward to supporting the Burgex team and contributing to a wide variety of geologic projects for their clients.