We are delighted to share that Jennifer Leinart has been designated as an SME Fellow, Class of 2025, by the Society for Mining, Metallurgy, and Exploration (SME). This prestigious recognition is awarded to select individuals who have made extraordinary contributions to the mining and minerals industry. SME Fellows are recognized for their outstanding achievements, leadership, and dedication to advancing the field. Jennifer joins an elite group of only 170 Fellows worldwide, highlighting the significance of this achievement and her remarkable impact on the industry.
What It Means to Be an SME Fellow
The title of SME Fellow is one of the highest honors bestowed by the Society for Mining, Metallurgy, and Exploration. It recognizes individuals who have demonstrated exceptional professional accomplishments and leadership in the mining and minerals industry. SME Fellows are role models and advocates for innovation, education, and collaboration, inspiring others to contribute to the industry’s growth and success. For Jennifer, this recognition celebrates a lifetime of dedication to advancing cost estimation, resource evaluation, and economic strategies that have shaped modern mining.
A Legacy of Excellence in Mining
Jennifer Leinart’s career spans over four decades, during which she has contributed to every stage of the mining lifecycle—from exploration and development to operations. Her journey began with the development of the iconic Red Dog mine in Alaska, one of the world’s largest zinc deposits. Over the years, Jennifer has built a reputation as a specialist in cost estimation, resource evaluation, and economic analysis, influencing projects that range from metals and coal to diamonds and garnets across North America and internationally.
Jennifer’s connection to Costmine Intelligence is rooted in its evolution from Western Mine Engineering, founded in 1983. Western Mine Engineering introduced Mining Cost Service, a groundbreaking resource for mining cost estimation, which quickly became the industry standard. Over time, the company expanded its offerings to include the Coal Cost Guide, Equipment Cost Calculator, and Mine and Mill Equipment Cost Guide.
Jennifer’s leadership and expertise have been instrumental in building upon this foundation. She has played a central role in shaping these resources to meet the evolving needs of the mining industry, ensuring they remain indispensable tools for cost estimation, economic analysis, and decision-making. Her contributions have solidified Costmine Intelligence’s reputation as a trusted source of mining insights for professionals worldwide.
Contributions to Costmine and the Mining Industry
At Costmine Intelligence, Jennifer’s contributions have been transformative. She has conducted and overseen countless feasibility studies, cost analyses, and mineral property evaluations, providing mining professionals with actionable insights and reliable data. Her efforts have been pivotal in maintaining the quality and accuracy of essential resources like Mining Cost Service and the Coal Cost Guide, which are relied upon by organizations across the globe.
Jennifer’s leadership continues to shape the company’s legacy. Her work has extended to training and mentoring new professionals, ensuring that the tools and methodologies she helped pioneer remain at the forefront of mining economics.
A Recognized Leader in the Mining Community
Jennifer’s professional affiliations reflect her dedication to the mining industry. She is a registered member of SME, a licensed Professional Geologist in Washington State, and an active participant in organizations such as the American Exploration and Mining Association, the Prospectors and Developers Association of Canada, and the Canadian Institute of Mining. Her expertise has been sought as an expert witness in complex mining-related cases, further underscoring her stature as a respected leader in the field.
Beyond her professional roles, Jennifer has contributed to academia and industry publications, helping to shape the next generation of mining professionals. Her work on the Canadian Mining Journal, SME’s Mining Engineering Handbook, and other influential publications has enriched the field’s understanding of cost estimation, labor analysis, and economic strategies in mining.
An Inspiration for Future Generations
Jennifer Leinart’s designation as an SME Fellow is a testament to her enduring commitment to the mining industry. It recognizes not only her technical expertise but also her leadership, mentorship, and dedication to innovation. Her achievements inspire colleagues, students, and professionals alike to strive for excellence and make meaningful contributions to the field.
Please join us in congratulating Jennifer Leinart on this well-deserved honor. Her contributions continue to pave the way for a more innovative and sustainable future in mining.
