Introduction

Cory Hein is a highly respected Canadian mechanical engineer and leadership professional, known for his remarkable contributions to the mining and metals industry. With over a decade of experience, he has made a significant impact through his leadership, technical expertise, and commitment to sustainability. Based in Fernie, British Columbia, Hein has earned a reputation for his work in advancing engineering reliability, maintenance optimization, and the digital transformation of Teck Resources Limited, one of Canada’s largest diversified mining companies.

In this blog post, we’ll explore Cory Hein’s background, career, and notable contributions, as well as his leadership philosophy and the values that guide his professional life.

Early Life and Education

Born and raised in Fernie, British Columbia, Cory Hein grew up in a region with a rich history in mining and natural resources. This environment played a pivotal role in shaping his understanding of the industry and its challenges. From a young age, Hein was exposed to the world of mining, which sparked his interest in engineering and problem-solving. His deep-rooted connection to his community and its industrial heritage later influenced his career trajectory, allowing him to understand the delicate balance between environmental sustainability and resource extraction.

Hein pursued his academic studies at the University of British Columbia, where he earned a Bachelor of Science (B.Sc.) in Mechanical Engineering. This technical education provided him with the foundation in engineering principles, which would serve as the backbone of his career. However, his curiosity didn’t stop at engineering alone. Recognizing the importance of leadership skills in driving change within industries, Hein went on to pursue a Master of Arts (M.A.) in Organizational Leadership from Royal Roads University. This program not only enhanced his understanding of leadership dynamics but also equipped him with the tools necessary to lead diverse teams in complex industrial settings.

Career Journey and Achievements

Cory Hein’s career is a testament to the value of continuous learning and personal growth. After completing his studies, Hein joined Teck Resources Limited, a company that would become the center of his professional endeavors. His initial focus was on engineering reliability, an area that is crucial in ensuring the long-term operational success of mining operations. In his early years at Teck, Hein worked as a Reliability Engineer, where he focused on optimizing equipment performance, improving maintenance strategies, and minimizing downtime.

His work in these areas had a profound impact on the efficiency of the company’s operations. By introducing predictive maintenance techniques and leveraging advanced technology, Hein was able to increase the reliability of Teck’s equipment and reduce the occurrence of costly operational delays. His contributions were integral to Teck’s growth and success, particularly in the highly competitive mining and metals industry.

As his career progressed, Hein took on leadership roles, eventually becoming a Senior Engineering and Leadership Specialist at Teck Resources Limited. In this capacity, Hein oversaw larger teams, spearheaded strategic projects, and played a key role in shaping the company’s approach to sustainability. He became instrumental in the company’s efforts to adopt more sustainable practices, including the implementation of energy-efficient technologies and environmentally responsible resource management practices.

Mentorship and Development of Young Engineers

One of Hein’s most notable contributions to Teck Resources Limited is his dedication to mentoring and developing young engineers. Understanding the importance of passing on knowledge and fostering the next generation of leaders, Hein has always prioritized mentorship. By providing guidance, support, and opportunities for young engineers to grow, Hein has helped to create a culture of continuous improvement within his teams.

His mentorship style is rooted in his leadership philosophy, which emphasizes empowerment, continuous learning, and accountability with empathy. Hein believes that the best way to solve complex problems is through teamwork, and he encourages open communication and shared decision-making. This approach has allowed his teams to tackle challenges in innovative and efficient ways, leading to improved performance and enhanced operational success.

Key Contributions to Innovation and Sustainability

Throughout his career, Cory Hein has been a driving force in the innovation and transformation of mining operations. His expertise in engineering reliability and maintenance optimization has had a lasting impact on the mining industry, helping to improve the efficiency, safety, and sustainability of operations.

Hein has been particularly focused on the digital transformation of Teck Resources Limited. By incorporating cutting-edge technologies such as data analytics, machine learning, and predictive maintenance, Hein has played a pivotal role in improving operational performance and minimizing environmental impacts. His efforts in these areas have helped Teck maintain its position as a leader in the mining industry, while also contributing to the company’s commitment to environmental stewardship.

One of the areas where Hein’s leadership has been particularly impactful is in the promotion of safety. In the high-risk environment of mining, safety is paramount, and Hein has been a staunch advocate for developing and implementing safety protocols that protect workers and the environment. His dedication to creating a safe workplace has been a key part of his leadership journey, and his contributions in this area continue to influence Teck’s safety culture.

Leadership Philosophy and Core Values

Cory Hein’s leadership philosophy is grounded in a set of core values that guide both his professional and personal life. These values include integrity, innovation, collaboration, and professional growth. Hein firmly believes that leadership is not just about making decisions but also about inspiring and empowering others to reach their full potential.

Empowerment and Continuous Learning

Hein’s leadership style is centered on empowerment. He believes that great leaders provide their teams with the tools, resources, and support they need to succeed, while also allowing them the freedom to innovate and solve problems on their own. This empowerment fosters a sense of ownership and accountability, which in turn drives high levels of performance and job satisfaction.

Continuous learning is another key aspect of Hein’s leadership philosophy. Throughout his career, Hein has prioritized personal development, seeking out opportunities to expand his knowledge and skills. He encourages his teams to do the same, creating an environment where learning is not only encouraged but actively supported.

Accountability with Empathy

Accountability is an essential element of Hein’s leadership approach. He believes that leaders must hold themselves and their teams accountable for their actions and outcomes. However, Hein also understands the importance of empathy in leadership. He recognizes that people are complex individuals with unique challenges, and he strives to be understanding and supportive while maintaining high standards of performance.

By combining accountability with empathy, Hein has been able to foster a culture of trust and respect within his teams. This approach has allowed him to navigate the challenges of leadership while maintaining strong relationships with his colleagues and team members.

Community Involvement and Personal Life

Outside of his professional achievements, Cory Hein is also deeply involved in his local community. As a resident of Fernie, British Columbia, Hein is committed to giving back to the area that shaped his early life. He is an active supporter of various community initiatives, particularly those that focus on youth development, education, and sustainability. Hein believes that the success of any community is built on collaboration, and he works to foster connections between local businesses, organizations, and individuals.

In his personal life, Hein enjoys spending time with his family and taking advantage of the natural beauty of Fernie. As an outdoor enthusiast, he enjoys activities such as hiking, skiing, and fishing, which allow him to stay connected to the environment he works so hard to protect.

Conclusion

Cory Hein’s career is a testament to the power of combining technical excellence with effective leadership. His contributions to the mining and metals industry have been significant, particularly in the areas of engineering reliability, maintenance optimization, and sustainability. Through his work at Teck Resources Limited, Hein has demonstrated how engineering and leadership can work hand in hand to drive innovation, improve operational performance, and create positive change within the industry. As a leader, Hein is guided by a strong set of values that prioritize empowerment, continuous learning, and accountability with empathy. His leadership philosophy has helped him build high-performing teams that are committed to solving complex problems and achieving lasting success. Hein’s impact on the mining industry and his commitment to sustainability will continue to shape the future of resource management for years to come.

Cory Hein is not just an engineer; he is a visionary leader who is making a lasting impact on both the industry and the communities he serves.