In this role, Hayes will advise the College on issues relating to energy and the environment, help establish a new advisory board in these domains, and inform programs centered on workforce development and industry leadership. Hayes will also contribute to bridging the gap between academia and industry needs, particularly in the areas of sustainable mining practices and green energy technologies.

Hayes, a U Mining Engineering alumna (BSME'02), currently works as a private consultant in the mining industry and other sectors. Her career spans over two decades, beginning at Interwest Mining, a subsidiary of Pacificorp, and including nine years with Rio Tinto who owns Utah's Kennecott Copper. Hayes has since emerged as a thought leader in the convergence of mining and alternative energy. She was the first woman to chair the Mining Engineering Department's Industrial Advisory Board and has extensive experience in other areas, such as software development, digital optimization, process improvement, utilities, manufacturing, high performing teams and corporate leadership.

"I am honored to join the College of Science as Senior Fellow," said Hayes. "The College has a unique opportunity to lead the way in reimagining the mining sector's role in a sustainable future. I'm excited to work with Dean Trapa and the faculty to develop innovative solutions that balance our need for critical minerals with environmental stewardship and to inspire the next generation of mining engineers to think holistically about their field and that a choice for mining is a choice for the environment."

"Denee Hayes brings a wealth of industry experience and an important perspective on the crucial intersection of mining and sustainability," said Peter Trapa, dean of the College of Science. "Her appointment as Senior Fellow will greatly enhance our ability to prepare students for the complex challenges of the future and strengthen our connections with industry partners."

College of Science Senior Fellows represent a variety of industries and provide key insights and guidance to leadership and faculty. Denee Hayes joins Fielding Norton, Tim Hawkes and Berton Earnshaw as senior fellows, further diversifying the expertise of the College leadership team.

Read more about Denee Hayes in a recent U Mining Engineering alumni profile. You can also connect with her on LinkedIn. 

By Bianca Lyon