The Ontario Mining Association ( OMA ) was established in 1920 to represent the mining industry in the province of Ontario . One of the longest serving trade organisations in Canada , much has changed since the association was founded but its mission remains consistent : to improve the competitiveness of Ontario ’ s mining industry while promoting safety and sustainability . “ Down the years , the OMA has maintained its core commitment to these ideals while embracing the change we ’ ve seen society ’ s evolving expectations and the mining industry ’ s capacity to meet them ,” says OMA President Chris Hodgson . With its centenary fast approaching , Hodgson believes the OMA is well placed to continue providing support to its members – and the Canadian mining industry – for another 100 years . “ Our strength comes from our members ,” he explains . “ We take a collaborative approach to address issues affecting the industry across various committees . We also work with other mining-related associations both at federal and provincial levels for the juniors and seniors . But we also work with governments , industry coalitions , academic research institutions , NGOs , and the public . Historically , we ’ ve worked constructively with many communities of interest . We ’ ve had considerable success as today ’ s technological disruptions now call for a greater variety of input .”