Sio Silica is pleased to announce the addition of Ms. Raven Sharma as our Senior Water Resources Scientist and Principal Hydrogeologist.
Raven Sharma’s Bio
Ms. Sharma brings more than 15 years of experience in water, wastewater, hydrogeology and environmental science, with a career dedicated to protecting groundwater and ensuring communities have access to safe, reliable water. She has extensive experience with aquifer systems throughout Manitoba’s Interlake region, including Stonewall to St. Andrews. Her work includes monitoring groundwater levels and water quality, interpreting hydrogeological data, evaluating aquifer conditions, identifying potential risks and supporting decisions to protect drinking-water supplies and the communities that depend upon them.
Ms. Sharma’s experience also extends to PFAS, pharmaceuticals and emerging contaminants. She was part of a collaborative team working with the Manitoba government to conduct water-quality testing of major Manitoba waterways, including the Assiniboine and Red Rivers.
Prior to joining Sio, Ms. Sharma served as Manager of Utilities for the City of Selkirk, with extensive experience in water and wastewater infrastructure, environmental monitoring and regulatory compliance.
Ms. Sharma holds a Master’s degree from the University of California, a B.Sc. in Geological Sciences and B.A. from the University of Manitoba, and a Business Management diploma from Red River College Polytechnic. She is also certified in Manitoba in Water Treatment, Wastewater Treatment, Water Distribution and Wastewater Collection.
Ms. Sharma currently serves as Vice Chair of the Manitoba Water & Wastewater Association, Chair of the North American Society for Trenchless Technology, Vice Chair of Apprenticeship Manitoba, and Chair of the Water and Waste Water Certification Advisory Committee.
Ms. Sharma’s scientific background also includes geotechnical, hydrogeological and astrobiological research. Ms. Sharma received NSERC-supported research funding through the Canadian Astrobiology Training Program and contributed to rover simulation activities associated with NASA and the Canadian Space Agency.
Ms. Sharma says “joining Sio is about more than the next step in my career. As a mother to a young daughter, I want my work today to contribute to a better future for the next generation. I believe environmental protection and economic opportunity should not be competing priorities and that responsible development can create jobs, strengthen communities and grow Manitoba’s economy while protecting our water and environment”.
At Sio, Ms. Sharma will bring her expertise in groundwater science, hydrogeology, water management, environmental assessment, monitoring and mitigation to help ensure science, transparency and environmental responsibility remain at the forefront of our approach.
About Sio Silica
Sio Silica is a Manitoba-based resource development company advancing the SiMBA Project, focused on the environmentally responsible extraction of high-purity quartz silica. High-purity quartz silica is a critical mineral essential to fibre optics, solar panels, semiconductors, and other advanced technologies driving the global energy transition and digital economy. Sio is committed to working collaboratively with local communities, Indigenous partners, and regulators to ensure safe, transparent, and sustainable development in Manitoba.