At 77 years young, Linda Aelick stands as a beacon of resilience and determination, having made history as the first female boom truck driver for Denison Mines.
Aelick, is a devoted mother of five daughters, and cherishes the memories of her family, including the profound loss of one daughter to a lung disease. Together with her husband, Russ, they are set to celebrate an incredible 60 years of marriage, a milestone that speaks to their enduring love and partnership. “Our secret is never go to bed angry and always say I love you,” she shares.
Their bond, forged through decades of shared experiences, challenges, and triumphs, serves as a testament to the power of love and commitment in building a fulfilling life together.
She is also a proud member of the Mississauga First Nations. Aelicks’ journey is a testament to the power of following one’s dreams, a lesson she imparts to everyone she meets.
Born and raised in Ironbridge, Ontario, Aelick moved to Elliot Lake in 1955, a time when the area was on the cusp of becoming a significant mining hub. “When I first moved to Elliot Lake, it was wild. The area was on its way to becoming a very important town when it came to mining,” she recalls, her eyes sparkling with nostalgia. “Since I was little, I was fascinated by trucks. It was my dream to be a truck driver,” she adds, proudly identifying as a self-proclaimed tomboy.
Aelick’s journey into the mining industry was not a straight path. After moving to Elliot Lake, she left the town four times, only to return. In 1967, she came back when her husband, secured a job at the mines. “My previous jobs were in the service industry, but I always knew I wanted more,” she explains.
From 1980 to 1992, Linda worked in the mines, starting as manual labour before quickly advancing to the role of boom truck operator. This achievement made her the first Indigenous female heavy machine operator for Denison Mines, a groundbreaking accomplishment in a male-dominated field. “It was a great career. I learned a lot and taught many of the men how to do their jobs safely,” she reflects, pride evident in her voice.
However, in 1992, the mines closed, leaving many, including Aelick, without work. Rather than letting this setback define her, she pivoted and returned to school, studying Native Studies, Addiction Counseling and Child Welfare. “I wanted to help others, and education was the key,” she says. Aelick put her newfound knowledge into practice, dedicating herself to helping those in need until 2009.
Today, Aelick remains active in her community, assisting her daughter in running Attitudes Hair and Spa. “I’m good with people; I love to interact with everyone I meet,” she shares, her warmth and enthusiasm palpable. Her commitment to service and community is unwavering, and she continues to inspire those around her.
Aelick’s life experiences have equipped her with wisdom that she generously shares with younger generations. “Follow your dreams and heart; it will get you to where you want to be in life,” she advises, encouraging young people to pursue their passions relentlessly. For those considering retirement in Elliot Lake, her sage advice is equally impactful: “Look for something to do. As they say, move it or lose it. Having a purpose is very important when you retire.”
Her journey is not just about breaking barriers; it’s also about building bridges. Aelick’s story resonates with many, particularly within the Indigenous community, where representation in various fields remains a challenge. She embodies the spirit of perseverance and the belief that it’s never too late to chase one’s dreams.
As she reflects on her life, Aelick acknowledges the challenges she faced but emphasizes the importance of strength. “Life is full of ups and downs, but it’s how you respond that matters,” she states. Her journey from a young girl fascinated by trucks to a pioneering boom truck driver is a narrative of courage, determination, and an unwavering spirit.
Linda Aelick’s legacy is one of empowerment and inspiration. She has not only paved the way for future generations of women in the mining industry but has also become a role model for anyone striving to overcome obstacles in pursuit of their happiness and dreams.
As she continues to engage with her community and support those around her, Aelick remains a vibrant force in Elliot Lake, proving that age is just a number and that the pursuit of passion knows no bounds.