Kent Bannister

WORK HISTORY

EDUCATION

ABOUT KENT BANNISTER

I’m a geotechnical engineer and engineering executive with 25+ years of experience delivering and leading complex infrastructure projects across Western and Northern Canada. As President & CEO of TREK Engineering, I lead a multidisciplinary team providing geotechnical, environmental, water resources, and materials testing services — supporting infrastructure that is safe, resilient, and built to perform over the long term.Over the past 15 years, TREK has evolved from a geotechnical-focused practice into TREK Engineering, reflecting the firm’s growth into a fully multidisciplinary engineering organization. My career has combined hands-on technical practice with executive leadership. In addition to corporate responsibilities, I remain actively involved in geotechnical design and technical review on major transportation, energy, and community infrastructure projects. My technical focus includes ground investigation and interpretation, numerical modelling, embankment and foundation performance, and construction-stage monitoring — with a strong emphasis on risk-informed decision-making.Prior to joining TREK in 2012 as a senior geotechnical engineer and partner, I worked with Manitoba Hydro and consulting firms across Manitoba, Saskatchewan, Alberta, and Ontario. These experiences shaped my practical approach to engineering — one grounded in constructability, collaboration, and accountability.I am deeply committed to advancing the geotechnical profession. I have volunteered with the Canadian Geotechnical Society since the late 1990\'s and currently serve as Treasurer of the Canadian Foundation for Geotechnique. I also sit on the Board of Directors for the Geoprofessional Business Association, and regularly contribute through conference leadership, technical presentations, and mentoring early-career engineers.A guiding principle in my career has been simple: say yes when opportunity presents itself. That mindset has driven growth, learning, and leadership — and continues to shape how I support people, partnerships, and progress within TREK and across the engineering community. Outside of work, I value family, community involvement, and supporting organizations that make a meaningful difference for children and families. These experiences provide perspective and reinforce why thoughtful engineering and strong professional teams matter.