Cory Hein: Mining Engineer & Leadership Innovator

Cory Hein is a Canadian mechanical engineer and leadership specialist known for his work at Teck Resources Limited, one of the country’s leading companies in the mining and metals industry. Based in Fernie, British Columbia, he has built a reputation as both a technical problem-solver and a thoughtful mentor. His career blends engineering expertise with organizational leadership, placing him among the most forward-thinking professionals in modern mining.

Early Life and Educational Foundations

Hein’s career began with a strong academic base. He earned a Bachelor of Applied Science in Mechanical Engineering, where he developed technical skills in mechanical systems, design, and reliability. Recognizing the value of expanding beyond technical knowledge, he later completed a Master of Arts in Organizational Leadership, a program that refined his understanding of team dynamics, communication, and strategic leadership.

His dual educational background set the foundation for a career that merges engineering precision with human-centered leadership.

Career at Teck Resources Limited

Technical Foundations and Career Growth

Cory Hein joined Teck Resources early in his professional journey, initially beginning in project engineering and technical maintenance roles. During this period, his early work involved evaluating equipment performance, improving reliability processes, and participating in key operational upgrades. As a result of his dedication and expertise, over time, he advanced into the role of Senior Reliability Engineer, where he focused on equipment performance, maintenance planning, and optimizing operational efficiency.

Stepping Into Leadership Roles for Cory Hein

Hein’s transition from technical work into leadership roles clearly highlights his ability to communicate effectively, supervise efficiently, and inspire teams. For instance, as a Shop Maintenance Foreman, he managed maintenance staff, coordinated repair schedules, and ensured equipment safety standards were consistently met.

Subsequently, by 2016, he had advanced into the role of Mechanical Engineer at Teck, contributing to long-term planning, risk analysis, and the modernization of equipment processes. Consequently, his leadership style evolved alongside his responsibilities, thereby making him a respected figure across multiple departments within the company.

Cory Hein’s Leadership Philosophy

One of the qualities that sets Cory Hein apart is his strong, people-oriented leadership style. He promotes an environment where communication, trust, and continuous improvement coexist with high technical standards.

His philosophy includes:

• Empowerment – Encouraging team members to share ideas and take ownership of their work.

• Accountability with empathy – Expecting high performance while supporting personal growth.

• Continuous learning – Advocating for training, mentorship, and skills development.

• Collaboration-driven innovation – Using collective problem-solving to drive improvements.

This blend of compassionate leadership and technical discipline has helped him guide teams effectively in a complex industrial environment.

Driving Innovation in the Mining Sector of Cory Hein

Mining is rapidly transforming with digital tools, automation, and sustainability initiatives. Cory Hein is among the professionals helping push this evolution forward.

1. Data-Driven Maintenance

Hein has been a strong proponent of predictive maintenance and data-based decision-making. By using equipment data and digital monitoring tools, he supports approaches that reduce downtime and improve reliability.

2. Automation and Digital Integration of Cory Hein

He encourages the adoption of digital technologies—ranging from sensor-based monitoring systems to modern equipment inspection methods—helping bring older industrial processes up to current technical standards.

3. Sustainable Engineering Practices of Cory Hein

As sustainability becomes a priority in the mining sector, Hein’s focus on efficiency and long-term planning therefore aligns well with reducing environmental impact. Moreover, his work contributes to safer, cleaner, and more energy-efficient operations.

Mentorship and Developing Future Engineers

Beyond his engineering work, Cory Hein is widely recognized for his dedication to mentorship. He works directly with young engineers and students, helping them understand not only the technical aspects of the field but the importance of leadership and communication.

His mentorship efforts include:

• One-on-one development sessions

• Guidance on soft skills and conflict resolution

• Teaching safety principles and best engineering practices

• Encouraging curiosity, professional growth, and leadership potential

This human-centered approach strengthens the talent pool and fosters a culture built on learning and collaboration.

Challenges, Resilience, and Lessons from the Field

A career in engineering—especially in a demanding industry like mining—comes with significant challenges. Hein has faced equipment failures, high-pressure deadlines, process inefficiencies, and the demands of managing diverse teams.

Through these challenges, he has developed key leadership lessons:

• Staying calm under pressure – His ability to remain level-headed helps guide teams through urgent situations.

• Balancing short-term fixes with long-term strategies – He prioritizes sustainable solutions over quick but temporary results.

• Transparent communication – Maintaining trust and clarity is essential when coordinating multiple departments or responding to operational setbacks.

Hein’s resilience and strategic thinking have made him an influential leader in his workplace.

Impact on the Mining Industry

Cory Hein’s work goes beyond his technical accomplishments. He is influencing how the mining workforce evolves, how companies blend technology with tradition, and how engineers can become well-rounded leaders.

His impact includes:

• Helping modernize equipment reliability practices

• Encouraging the use of data and innovation in maintenance planning

• Strengthening mentorship culture within the industry

• Shifting attitudes toward collaborative and people-focused leadership

He represents a new generation of mining professionals who understand that innovation is not just about machines—it’s also about empowering people.

Why Cory Hein Matters

Hein stands out in the mining industry for several reasons:

1. He bridges technical expertise with leadership excellence.

2. He is committed to sustainability and long-term operational success.

3. He advocates for innovation at every level of engineering work.

4. He helps shape future leaders through mentorship and education.

His ability to unify technology, teamwork, and thoughtful leadership makes him an important contributor to the industry’s future.

The Road Ahead: Future Prospects for Cory Hein

As the mining industry continues to evolve, Cory Hein’s future appears promising. Potential directions include:

• Senior strategic leadership roles with greater influence on company-wide decisions

• Industry thought leadership, possibly through published insights or conference presentations

• Further contributions to sustainability initiatives

• Continued advocacy for digital innovation and modern engineering practices

With a strong foundation in both engineering and organizational leadership, Hein is positioned to make an even greater impact in the years ahead.

Conclusion

Cory Hein’s career is a powerful example of how technical expertise and leadership skills can come together to create meaningful change. Moreover, through his work at Teck Resources, his commitment to innovation, and his dedication to mentorship, he has built a legacy that extends beyond his immediate workplace.

Ultimately, he stands as a model for engineers who want to move beyond technical roles and become influential leaders—balancing people, process, and progress with equal importance.