Luca Mining Corp. Appoints New COO to Enhance Operations and Drive Growth

Luca Mining Corp. Strengthens Leadership to Optimize Operations

Luca Mining Corp. is positioning itself for growth by appointing Nick Shakesby as Chief Operating Officer (COO), effective April 1, 2026. This strategic decision aims to enhance the company’s operational leadership as it focuses on its ambitious Campo Morado Expansion (CME) project. Under Shakesby’s leadership, who boasts over 30 years in global mining, Luca plans to optimize mill operations and update existing mine plans to improve metal recovery rates, particularly in gold and silver. The company anticipates releasing a Technical Report on these developments in the latter half of 2026, offering insight into the impact of these enhancements on its current operations.

In tandem with Shakesby’s appointment, Ramón Mendoza is transitioning to the dedicated role of Chief Technical Officer. Mendoza will oversee the CME project and its two-phase expansion at the Campo Morado mine. His experience and familiarity with the mine are expected to drive the project's technical complexities forward. Additionally, the hiring of Dr. Jose Hernandez as Vice President of Metallurgy and Process Engineering further fortifies the technical team. Hernandez’s expertise from his previous tenure at Teck Resources is seen as pivotal in refining metallurgical processes and ensuring that the expansion translates into increased operational efficiency.

The integration of these seasoned professionals symbolizes a robust strategy to elevate Luca Mining Corp.’s operational capabilities at its existing sites while embracing a forward-looking growth strategy. Dan Barnholden, the CEO, expresses enthusiasm about these changes, emphasizing they will fortify the company's technical leadership. The focused investments in human capital not only signal a commitment to optimization initiatives but also align with Luca's broader business objectives in a competitive mining landscape.

In parallel, Luca Mining continues to explore innovative methodologies to bolster metal recovery and optimize processes across its operational assets. The company’s emphasis on technical expertise is not merely a response to existing challenges; it also represents a proactive approach to future industry demands, aligning with best practices in the mining sector. The future developments at Campo Morado are eagerly anticipated by stakeholders as a significant opportunity for improvement in production and efficiency.

This strategic overhaul in leadership comes at a critical moment for Luca Mining Corp., reinforcing its intent to enhance operational performance while pursuing ambitious growth opportunities in the mining sector. The ongoing transition within its leadership marks a pivotal phase as the company aims to optimize its current resources and lay the groundwork for sustainable long-term success.