There are numerous characters in Atlas Shrugged who, while not quite at "hero" level, are positively portrayed. These include a train conductor, a scientist, a mid-level manager, factory workers, a bus driver, a union representative, and a secretary, among others.

Spoiler alert. Don't read if you want to read Atlas Shrugged.

Galt, arguably the biggest hero, is not a C-level exec. He is an engineer. Another hero, Ragnar, is a pirate.