SRK Consulting hosted a party this weekend for the Vancouver launch of its new book SRK: 40 Years in the Deep End. Employees past and present reminisced about the company’s evolution and celebrated its achievements. Distinguished guests included cofounder Andy Robertson and other influential consultants from SRK’s early years such as Keith Robinson, Jack Caldwell, Ian Hutchison, and John Gadsby.

The book tells how SRK was established in 1974 to fulfil a need for technical consulting services in Johannesburg, South Africa. Although the founders were experienced engineers, starting a new consulting practice required a leap of faith into the deep end of the mining world. Tackling each project with enthusiasm, they quickly built SRK into a force to be reckoned with.

During the subsequent 40 years, SRK consultants have continued to approach mining and exploration challenges across the globe with energy and commitment. “The metaphor of jumping into the deep end is therefore a fitting theme for the book’s cover and narrative,” said Andy Barrett, global and North American president of SRK.

In addition to describing the evolution of SRK’s offices around the world, the book provides insight into SRK’s philosophies and what makes the company unique. Interviews with about 160 of the few thousand people that SRK has employed over the last 40 years yielded many memories and anecdotes that convey the spirit of the organization. These stories also exemplify the main reason for SRK’s success: the commitment of its staff.

“This book is a tribute to the people whose talents, passion, and four decades of hard work have built SRK into a respected resource industry consultancy,” said Barrett.

A limited number of copies of the book have been printed and an e-book version will be available by the end of 2015.