NRED Intelligent Mining released a press statement on June 24, claiming that Katie Zacharia, who had previously worked as a DHS spokesperson, was joining the company's advisory board alongside former DHS Secretary Kristi Noem. The statement highlighted Zacharia's role in providing strategic guidance on AI initiatives and exploration projects.
The company reported that it had begun pivoting its focus from traditional copper-and-gold exploration to developing its AI-assisted mineral exploration platform, MetalCore. This shift marks a significant departure from its earlier operations, which generated little revenue and faced financial challenges.
Zacharia's involvement with NRED was later disputed, with Sam Amsterdam, a strategic marketing professional, stating that the press release was not approved by Zacharia and was issued without her consent. Amsterdam emphasized that while discussions about her joining the company occurred, she never actually did.
"That release was not approved by Ms. Zacharia and was issued without her consent," said Sam Amsterdam, who described himself as a friend and colleague of Zacharia. Amsterdam noted that the company's website still listed Zacharia as part of its management as of July, despite the claim being withdrawn.
The announcement of Noem's advisory role sparked backlash among Canadians, who criticized her past comments referring to Canada as the '51st state.' The company, which had previously struggled financially, now aims to leverage AI and robotics to transform the mining industry.
NRED did not confirm whether Zacharia's involvement was ever finalized, and the company remains focused on its AI-driven initiatives. The situation highlights the complexities of corporate partnerships and public perception in the tech and mining sectors.
Source: wired
