Hecla’s Matt Blattman Named SME Fellow for Excellence in Mine Engineering
3/16/2026
The Society for Mining, Metallurgy & Exploration (SME) has awarded Matt Blattman the distinguished title of Fellow in recognition of his outstanding professional accomplishments and sustained service to the organization.
As Vice President of Technical Services at Hecla, Blattman leads the company’s corporate technical team, which supports Hecla’s three operating mines and advanced greenfield and brownfield projects. His leadership in mine planning, strategic optimization, and the use of automated design tools has been integral to Hecla’s continued operational excellence.
A devoted SME member for 28 years and a Founding Registered Member, Blattman has contributed extensively to the society through various leadership roles. He has served on the SME Board of Directors, chaired the Mining & Exploration Division Executive Committee, and played key roles on several strategic committees, including Structure & Governance, Education & Professional Development, and Nominating. Earlier in his career, he chaired the Young Leaders Committee and was recognized with the M&E Division Outstanding Young Professional Award in 1999.
This honor reflects not only Blattman’s technical expertise but also his enduring commitment to advancing the mining profession and mentoring the next generation of engineers.
