Speakers

Makenzie is the Deputy Minister for the Ministry of Forests.

Makenzie comes from a multi-generational forestry family. Growing up in the industry – logging camps and forest-dependent communities on BC’s coast – inspired her career. She began as a labourer for a logging contractor and went on to hold a variety of positions across Western Canada and abroad. Her work has spanned environmental management, ecology , operations, planning, management, standards, conflict resolution, engagement and relations, policy, and leadership.

Her work is guided by a purpose of sound forest management and ensuring the well-being of the people, Nations, and communities who rely on it. Makenzie believes in the strength and brilliance of people and organizations and the value they can create when included, engaged, and empowered. Her approach is to build and maintain authentic, long-term relationships, create space for productive – sometimes challenging but always safe – dialogue to find durable solutions.

She holds a Bachelors of Science in Forest Business Management from the University of Alberta, an Executive MBA from the BI Norwegian Business School, and is a Registered Professional Forester.