Coach McKinney brings a wealth of coaching experience from a variety of levels, including high school, NAIA, and NCAA Division I.

McKinney came to Southeastern after serving in 2020 after previously serving as an assistant for the men's and women's track & field teams at NCAA Division I Fordham University.

Before Fordham, McKinney was an assistant for both the men's and women's programs at his alma mater Indiana University East. His other coaching stops include serving as the head track & field coach at Armwood High School from 2018-19 and Eaton High School as an Assistant Coach from 2016-17.

McKinney was a highly accomplished thrower throughout his collegiate career at IU-East, where he was KIAC Hammer Champion, six-time All-Conference, and a two-time national qualifier. He concluded his collegiate career at NCAA Division I Eastern Kentucky University, where he was two-time All-Ohio Valley Conference and a regional qualifier.

As a coach, he has guided 16 High School State qualifiers, 2 High School National qualifiers, 1 High School State Champion, 2 Atlantic 10 All Conference , and 2 River States All Conference. He holds a Level 2 coaching certification from the USATF. 

Cory and his wife Ashlie reside in Davenport with their daughter Loxley.