Engineering Career Story with Koen Duineveld

In this Alumni Spotlight, we delve into the inspiring career journey of Koen Duineveld, a UBC Mining Engineering graduate. From co-op student to Drill and Blast Engineer at Elk Valley Resources (EVR), Koen’s story showcases the value of persistence, adaptability, and teamwork in navigating a dynamic industry.

Can you share your journey as a UBC student? What drew you to Mining Engineering? 

Koen Duineveld’s academic journey began at the University of the Fraser Valley before transferring to UBC’s Mining Engineering program in his second year. “I graduated in 2018,” Koen recalls, “and went straight into the mining industry.”

UBC provided Koen with a solid foundation, not only in technical knowledge but also in problem-solving. 

“The biggest skill I took away from my degree was learning how to break down complex problems and solve them methodically,” he says. This approach became a cornerstone of his professional success.

How did your co-op experience shape your career? 

Koen participated in UBC’s co-op program, completing a 16-month placement with Shell Canada. “I worked in Calgary and Fort McMurray, gaining on-site experience,” he shares. “That co-op term was crucial in preparing me for the challenges of working in remote environments.”

While Koen’s co-op focused heavily on the technical aspects of engineering, it was the soft skills he developed that stood out. “Learning to navigate conflicting priorities within a department and collaborating with different teams were invaluable lessons,” he explains. These experiences eased his transition into the workforce.

Reflecting on his co-op journey, Koen advises students to diversify their experiences. 

“If I could go back, I’d try multiple shorter placements instead of one long term,” he says. “Exposure to different roles and environments can provide a broader perspective.”

What does your current role at Elk Valley Resources entail? 

Koen has been with Elk Valley Resources (formerly Teck Coal) for seven years, rotating through various roles. Currently, he works as a Drill and Blast Engineer at Line Creek Operations.

“My day-to-day involves supervising the survey and drill and blast groups,” he explains. “I provide support, mentorship, and help prioritize tasks. I’m also responsible for forecasting and optimizing our drill and blast program.”

Koen find fulfillment in identifying opportunities for improvement and implementing solutions. "Seeing those changes create real value for the operation is incredibly rewarding." he says. 

What major challenges have you faced in your field? 

The mining industry presents unique challenges, particularly in permitting and sustainability. “The permitting process has become more complex over the years,” Koen notes. “It requires conservative timelines and close collaboration with provincial authorities.”

Sustainability is another evolving priority. “The industry has made significant strides in addressing environmental concerns, but there’s always more to do,” he acknowledges. These challenges push professionals to innovate and adapt continuously.

What role has networking played in your career? 

Networking was pivotal in Koen’s career journey. “I became involved in the Canadian Mining Games through UBC’s Mining department,” he shares. “That experience helped me make industry connections, one of which led to my current job.”

For students, Koen recommends organic networking. “You don’t always need to attend formal events. Joining clubs or participating in projects can open doors,” “Find something you’re passionate about and connect with people naturally.”

What technical and soft-skills are essential for new grads? 

Koen emphasizes the importance of soft skills. “Communication is crucial,” he says. “You need to be able to collaborate effectively and ensure your work can be handed off seamlessly to others.”

Time management is another key area. “New engineers often struggle with saying no to work,” Koen observes. “Prioritizing tasks and knowing when to ask for help are critical to maintaining quality and reliability.”

On the technical side, Koen advises new grads to focus on building a strong foundation. “You’ll learn a lot on the job, so being open to mentorship and continuous learning is essential,” he says.

How do you maintain work-life balance? 

Balancing the demands of a dynamic workplace is challenging, but Koen credits his team for making it possible. “I focus on enabling my team to succeed independently,” he says. “That trust allows me to step away when needed and know everything is in good hands.”

Koen also emphasizes the importance of time management and teamwork. “Building trust within your team helps reduce stress and fosters a collaborative environment,” he explains.

What advice would you give to students interested in mining? 

Koen encourages students to embrace unconventional opportunities. 

“Mining rewards generalists,” he says. “Rotating through different roles can give you a unique perspective and make you stand out.”

He also highlights the importance of co-op and field experience. 

“Working on-site shows you’re comfortable in a mining environment, which is a significant advantage,” he notes.

What has been the most rewarding part of your career? 

For Koen, one of the highlights has been his role in short-range planning. “It’s in the middle of everything,” he says. “You work with almost all the teams on the mine site. Building a plan and watching it succeed is incredibly rewarding, especially in high-stakes situations.”

Closing Thoughts 

Koen Duineveld’s journey from a UBC Mining Engineering student to a leader in his field highlights the value of adaptability, networking, and continuous learning. His insights and experiences serve as inspiration for students and professionals looking to make an impact in the mining industry.