Panel Discussion: Optimising Data for AI in Mineral Exploration

The annual IMDEX Xploration Tech Symposium was held on 23 January 2026 in Vancouver, bringing together industry, technology, and research leaders to explore how data and artificial intelligence are reshaping mineral exploration. This panel discussion focuses on optimising data for AI, examining how exploration teams can move from data availability to data effectiveness. Moderated by Kylie Williams, Director of Sector Innovation at Foresight Canada, the session brings together leaders from exploration technology, geoscience, and applied AI to discuss practical challenges and emerging best practices. Panellists explore topics including AI training data, data scale versus resolution, integrating core and spectral data, transparency and explainability in machine‑learning models, and the differences between greenfields and brownfields exploration contexts. The discussion also considers how AI can reduce decision latency, improve targeting confidence, and support long‑term exploration planning amid rising costs and increasing demand for critical minerals. Panellists include: Tyler Hall, President, ExploreTech Dimitrios Oikonomou, Chief Technology Officer, Earth Science Analytics (a leading IMDEX brand) Kevin Byrne, Chief Geologist, VRIFY Technology Inc This session forms part of the Optimising Data for AI stream at the IMDEX Xploration Tech Symposium and highlights the importance of fit‑for‑purpose data strategies in enabling responsible, effective AI adoption in exploration.