CIM Distinguished Service Medal - Winner 1998
Wayne E. HickeyBeresford, NB
“In recognition of his outstanding contribution to Canada’s mineral industry through long standing and distinguished service to the Institute at the national, district and branch levels.”
Wayne Hickey first became involved with CIM in 1972 when he joined the New Brunswick Branch soon after he began working for Brunswick Mining, a division of Noranda Inc. He has held various positions over the past twenty-six years and is currently a Senior Research Technician in the Industrial Engineering Department. He has been a director of the Brunswick Mining Employee’s Association for 24 years, serving as President for the past six years. The association organizes sporting and social functions for its members as well as providing financial assistance and moral support in times of need.
In 1990 Wayne received the Noranda Recognition Award for community involvement and for technical and safety advances in the underground working environment. He is an active member of his local community in sports and in other activities.
His dedication and commitment to CIM have been evident from the very beginning, and since then, his various activities clearly show his devotion to the Institute and Canada’s mining industry. From 1973 to 1997, he was a member of the organizing committee of the Branch’s annual convention, and has served as chairman on various occasions. In 1982 he became a national member of CIM. In the same year, he was a member of the District 1 meeting organizing committee and was elected to the Board of Directors of the New Brunswick Branch. In 1983, he was elected secretary/ treasurer, in 1984, vice-chairman, and in 1985, chairman. During his tenure as chairman, several new initiatives were undertaken; among them the Branch enjoyed the largest membership in its history (612), the Branch’s Friend of the Institute Award was created, Branch life membership was instituted, and the first Branch newsletter started. In 1985, he was Vice-Chairman and Treasurer of the 7th Mine Operators Conference in Bathurst.
From 1987 to 1989, he served as CIM District 1 Councillor, and from 1993 to 1995, served as District 1 Vice President. He chaired the committee of meeting procedures, and during these years, he became known as CIM’s “Parliamentarian” and he continues to fulfill this role for CIM and the CIM Council. He was a member of the organizing committee of CIM ’95 Halifax. He received the New Brunswick Branch Friend of the Institute Award in 1995, and became a Fellow of the Institute in 1996. In 1996, he also revised the Institute By-laws, and served as an advisor to the CIM Strategic Planning Committee. He has recently written a report in preparation for a Statement of Values for Institute members. He is a member of the Committee reviewing CIM awards, and is Chairman of the 14th Mine Operators Conference to take place in Bathurst in 1999.