First Canadian Graphite Inc. has appointed John LaGourgue as Chief Executive Officer and member of the Board of Directors, effective immediately. The appointment comes as the junior mining company seeks to accelerate development of its flagship Berkwood Graphite Project in northern Quebec to meet increasing global demand for critical minerals.
Mr. LaGourgue brings over 25 years of experience in senior executive roles, board positions, and advisory roles in the resource sector. His background includes project oversight, corporate finance, risk management, and commercial operations, with a track record of securing more than $100 million in debt and equity funding for various ventures. This expertise positions him to lead First Canadian through its next development phase as the company works to commercialize its graphite resource.
The Berkwood Graphite Project hosts a historical NI 43-101 estimate of 3.2 million tonnes of indicated and inferred graphite at an average grade of 17%, featuring high-grade, large-flake graphite. The project is located adjacent to major world-class graphite developments and benefits from Quebec's mining-friendly jurisdiction, clean hydroelectric power, and supportive infrastructure. Additional information about the company's regulatory filings can be found at www.sedar.com.
"I am honoured to join the FCI team and look forward to driving an exciting new phase for the Company," said Mr. LaGourgue. "I see tremendous potential to position First Canadian Graphite as a leader in the global graphite supply chain. Our world-class graphite district features some of the highest-grade and highest-quality graphitic bodies in existence, located in Quebec's mining-friendly jurisdiction with excellent road access and global shipping capabilities."
The appointment is strategically timed as global demand for graphite continues to surge, driven primarily by the electric vehicle battery market and the broader transition to clean energy technologies. Graphite is a critical component in lithium-ion batteries, and securing domestic sources has become a priority for many nations seeking to reduce reliance on foreign supply chains. First Canadian's project in Quebec represents a potential North American source for this essential mineral.
Thomas Yingling, who will focus on his role as President to execute a busy 2026 program of field operations and commercialization steps, stated: "John's expertise, energy in expanding investor awareness, and clear vision for maximizing shareholder value through commercialization will be instrumental as we advance Berkwood, strengthen our management team and board, and capitalize on the surging global demand for graphite."
First Canadian Graphite respectfully acknowledges that the Berkwood Project is located within the traditional territory of the Pessamit Innu First Nation and is committed to fostering respectful, transparent, and collaborative relationships with local Indigenous communities throughout the development process. The company's corporate information is available at www.firstcanadiangraphite.com.
This leadership change signals First Canadian's commitment to advancing its Quebec graphite assets at a time when secure, ethical sources of critical minerals are increasingly valued by industries and governments worldwide. The company's ability to develop a domestic graphite supply could contribute to North American energy independence and support the growing electric vehicle manufacturing sector.
