Introduction
In the rugged landscapes of British Columbia, where the mining industry has long been a cornerstone of economic and community life, figures like Cory Hein stand out as exemplars of modern engineering excellence. As a senior mechanical engineer and leadership specialist at Teck Resources Limited, one of Canada’s premier diversified mining companies, Hein has carved a niche for himself through a blend of technical prowess, innovative thinking, and empathetic leadership. His journey from a small-town upbringing to influencing sustainable practices in a global industry encapsulates the evolution of mining in the 21st century. This article delves into the life, career, and impact of Cory Hein, highlighting how his contributions are shaping the future of resource extraction.
Born and raised in Fernie, British Columbia
Cory Hein’s early life was steeped in the realities of a resource-dependent community. Fernie, nestled in the Elk Valley, has a storied history tied to coal mining, dating back to the late 19th century. Growing up amid the towering Rockies, Hein witnessed firsthand the dual-edged sword of mining: its role in providing livelihoods and economic stability, juxtaposed with the environmental challenges and safety risks it poses. This environment instilled in him a deep respect for the industry’s workers and a keen awareness of the need for responsible practices. From a young age, he was fascinated by machinery and systems—tinkering with bikes and engines in his family’s garage, which sparked an enduring interest in mechanical engineering. These formative experiences not only grounded him in practical problem-solving but also fostered a commitment to balancing industrial progress with community well-being.
Hein’s educational path was a deliberate fusion of technical rigor and leadership development. He pursued a Bachelor of Science in Mechanical Engineering at the University of British Columbia (UBC), graduating in 2008. At UBC, he immersed himself in courses on thermodynamics, fluid mechanics, materials science, and structural analysis—disciplines essential for tackling the complexities of large-scale industrial operations. The program’s emphasis on real-world applications resonated with Hein, who participated in co-op placements that exposed him to mining equipment and maintenance challenges. Recognizing that engineering success extends beyond technical skills, Hein later enrolled in a Master of Arts in Organizational Leadership at Royal Roads University. Balancing full-time work with studies, he honed his abilities in team dynamics, strategic communication, and change management. This advanced degree equipped him to lead diverse teams in high-stakes environments, setting the stage for his ascent in the professional world.
Upon completing his bachelor’s degree
Hein joined Teck Resources Limited, a Vancouver-based company renowned for its operations in copper, zinc, steelmaking coal, and energy. Starting in entry-level roles focused on project engineering and technical maintenance, he quickly demonstrated his aptitude for analyzing equipment performance and implementing reliability upgrades. Teck, with its global footprint spanning Canada, the United States, Chile, and Peru, provided Hein with a dynamic platform to apply his skills. Early in his tenure, he worked on evaluating mechanical systems in coal mining operations, identifying inefficiencies that led to costly downtimes. His data-driven approach—leveraging sensors and analytics to predict failures—earned him promotions and a reputation as a reliability expert.
By the mid-2010s, Hein had advanced to the position of Senior Reliability Engineer at Teck’s Elk Valley operations. In this role, he spearheaded initiatives to optimize maintenance schedules, reduce equipment breakdowns, and enhance overall production efficiency. One notable project involved overhauling predictive maintenance systems, where Hein integrated Internet of Things (IoT) devices and artificial intelligence (AI) algorithms to monitor machinery in real-time. This not only minimized unplanned outages but also extended the lifespan of critical assets, saving the company significant resources. His work in this area aligned with Teck’s broader goals of operational excellence and cost management, contributing to improved financial performance amid fluctuating commodity prices.
Hein’s career trajectory took a pivotal turn toward leadership when he assumed the role of Shop Maintenance Foreman. Managing frontline teams in a demanding industrial setting required him to shift from individual technical contributions to fostering collective success. Here, he applied lessons from his master’s program, emphasizing clear communication and cross-departmental collaboration. Under his guidance, maintenance crews adopted more agile practices, such as rapid response protocols for equipment issues, which boosted morale and productivity. Hein’s hands-on experience—spanning over 15 years in the field—allowed him to mentor junior engineers, sharing insights on everything from safety protocols to innovative troubleshooting.
The heart of Cory Hein’s
professional ethos is a leadership philosophy that prioritizes people as much as processes. In an industry often characterized by hierarchical structures and risk-averse decision-making, Hein advocates for a more empowering model. He believes in granting team members autonomy to innovate, coupled with accountability tempered by empathy. “Leadership isn’t about dictating solutions; it’s about enabling others to find them,” Hein has articulated in industry forums, reflecting his commitment to psychological safety in high-risk environments. This approach contrasts sharply with traditional mining leadership, which might focus solely on output metrics. Instead, Hein promotes continuous learning through workshops, mentorship programs, and skills upgrading, ensuring his teams are equipped for the digital transformation sweeping the sector.
Collaboration is another cornerstone of Hein’s style
He fosters open dialogues between engineers, operators, and stakeholders, breaking down silos that can hinder progress. During challenges like mechanical failures or production delays, Hein maintains composure, using these moments as teaching opportunities. His emphasis on empathy—understanding the personal pressures faced by workers—has led to lower turnover rates and higher job satisfaction in his teams. Industry peers have noted how Hein’s methods align with modern organizational theories, such as those from agile management and positive psychology, making him a sought-after speaker at events like the Mining Leadership Summit.
Innovation is where Hein truly shines
particularly in advancing sustainable and tech-driven practices in mining. Recognizing the environmental imperatives facing the industry, he has championed initiatives to reduce carbon emissions and improve energy efficiency. For instance, Hein has been instrumental in deploying automated systems that optimize resource use, such as AI-powered analytics for ore processing. These technologies not only enhance safety by reducing human exposure to hazardous areas but also minimize ecological footprints—critical in regions like British Columbia, where mining intersects with sensitive ecosystems.
Predictive maintenance remains a hallmark of Hein’s contributions. By harnessing data from sensors and machine learning models, he has helped Teck preempt equipment failures, slashing downtime by substantial margins. This proactive strategy extends to broader sustainability efforts, including waste reduction and water conservation. Hein’s work supports Teck’s ambitious goals under environmental, social, and governance (ESG) frameworks, positioning the company as a leader in responsible mining. His innovations have ripple effects, influencing policy discussions on clean technology in Canada’s resource sector.
Hein’s achievements extend beyond technical feats to broader industry recognition. He has received accolades from professional associations for his engineering excellence and leadership innovations. As a thought leader, he contributes articles and presentations on topics like adaptive leadership and digital integration in mining. Mentorship is a key pillar of his legacy; Hein actively participates in STEM outreach programs, volunteering to inspire youth in Fernie and beyond to pursue careers in engineering and science. His efforts help address the talent shortage in Canada’s mining industry, ensuring a pipeline of skilled professionals committed to sustainability.
On a personal level, Cory Hein remains deeply rooted in his Fernie community. Living in the town that shaped him, he advocates for ethical mining practices that respect local and Indigenous stakeholders. Hein’s volunteer work includes supporting environmental preservation projects and promoting transparent communication between industry and residents. While he keeps much of his private life out of the spotlight, his passion for outdoor activities—hiking in the Rockies and engaging with nature—reflects his balanced worldview. These pursuits recharge him, reinforcing his belief in harmony between human endeavor and the natural world.
Looking ahead
As mining grapples with global trends like electrification and net-zero targets, his expertise in innovation and leadership will be invaluable. Potential future roles could involve strategic oversight at Teck or advisory positions in policy-making bodies. Hein envisions a mining industry that is not only profitable but also regenerative, restoring ecosystems while powering the green economy. His story is a testament to how one individual’s blend of technical acumen and human-centered leadership can drive systemic change.
Last words
In an era where industries must adapt or perish, Cory Hein exemplifies resilience and foresight. From the coal seams of Fernie to the boardrooms of Teck Resources, his journey underscores the power of education, empathy, and innovation. As Canada positions itself as a global leader in sustainable resources, figures like Hein will be at the forefront, ensuring that progress benefits both people and the planet. His legacy, still unfolding, inspires a new generation to reimagine the possibilities of engineering in the modern world.
