Eileen Kenkel is a retired IT and Business Executive with a passion for inspiring the Next Generation of leaders in Canada. With over 30 years of experience in various industries, Eileen held senior leadership roles focused on strategy, planning, program execution, customer experience, and IT. She is thrilled to be a MacKay Forum Chair and introduce the MacKay Emerging Leaders Program.
Motivated by her own MacKay Executive Forum experience and fueled by her dedication to mentoring, Eileen created the Next Gen Network. This program combines strategic leadership tools with the proven Peer Support model from MacKay. Over the past 6 years, Eileen has successfully delivered this program to over 300 Emerging Leaders and High Potential team members at TELUS. Participants from all parts of the organization come together to learn and share insights. Eileen is excited to bring this effective Leadership Development model to MacKay members.
Eileen takes pride in her STEM background and holds a Bachelor’s Degree in Electronics and Computer Systems Engineering from Carleton University. She has also been a speaker at events for organizations like Women In Science and Engineering (WISE), UBC, SFU, U of Windsor, Junior Achievement BC, and Science World.
Living in Vancouver with her husband Ed and their lovable Lab pup Ellie, Eileen stays active in the woods, mountains, and at the beach. Grounded by her daily meditation practice and focus on personal wellness, she maintains balance in her life. Eileen serves as the Board Chair for the Avalon Recovery Society, supporting women in recovery from addiction through three centers in Vancouver’s Lower Mainland. Those who know Eileen know that she is “always a yes” for a coffee chat to share experiences and ideas.