David Trent
About David
- Strategic
- Innovative
- Practical
Bio
David is a Forum Chair and Chief AI Officer at MacKay CEO Forums, where he chairs an AI-focused peer group in the Vancouver area. His forum group brings together CEOs, Presidents, and Business Owners from non-competing organizations to share experiences, navigate AI adoption, and explore how artificial intelligence can create meaningful business value.
David brings more than 30 years of experience leading technology, digital innovation, and enterprise transformation across multiple sectors — and a career built on turning complex challenges into measurable business outcomes. As Founder of Technology Done Well, he works with Canadian boards, executives, and organizations to help them plan, implement, and operate technology effectively, drawing on operating experience earned while being accountable for real results. He has held senior executive roles at Canadian Forest Products (Canfor), where he served as Senior Vice President of Business Development and Senior Vice President of Supply Chain and Digital, and at Canadian National Railway (CN), where he was Chief Digital Officer and Vice President of Operating Technologies.
Earlier in his career, David held technology leadership positions at Canfor Corporation, Methanex Corporation, and Intrawest Corporation, consistently delivering business improvements and sustainable performance gains. He holds a Bachelor of Arts in Economics from Simon Fraser University and earned his CPA CMA, graduating top of his class. David is also an Accredited Board Director with the Chartered Governance Institute of Canada and has served on multiple boards, including RailInc and Canada’s Digital Supercluster.
AI-Focused Forum Group Overview
David’s AI-focused Forum brings together CEOs, Presidents, and Business Owners from non-competing organizations to explore how artificial intelligence can create meaningful business value. Members share experiences and work through challenges related to AI adoption, strategy, and implementation while building the confidence to lead in a changing business environment.
As Chief AI Officer at MacKay CEO Forums, David shapes and executes the organization’s AI strategy, enhancing the peer learning experience for its 1,300+ members and strengthening internal operations through thoughtful AI integration. His expertise spans AI strategy, vendor evaluation, architecture design, and implementation oversight, with a focus on connecting technology investments to measurable business outcomes.
What to Expect
Through confidential discussions and peer accountability, members explore AI opportunities, share lessons learned, and challenge their thinking. David guides conversations that connect AI strategy to practical business decisions, helping members gain clarity, identify meaningful next steps, and lead with confidence.
Meeting Locations
David’s forum group meets 7 times per year. Each member hosts the meeting at their preferred location, which is within the Greater Vancouver Area.
Connect with David
Interested in exploring how AI can support your business? Connect with David to learn more about his Forum group and whether it’s the right fit for you.
