Kent MacDonald

Kent MacDonald’s career exemplifies the transformative power of a Holland College education. Since he graduated from the Electronics Engineering Technology program in 1980, Kent has built an extraordinary 44-year career in the IT industry, holding various executive roles.

As Vice President of Strategic Alliances at Long View Systems, Kent has been a driving force in the company’s remarkable growth, helping it expand from 180 employees to over 1,300. His leadership and strategic vision have fostered lasting partnerships with technology giants including Cisco, Microsoft, NetApp, HPE, and others, while his expertise has made him a go-to resource for the IT media for the partner perspective on new product innovations and programs.

In addition to his role at Long View, Kent is a respected voice in the IT community, serving on numerous North American and Global partner advisory boards for Cisco, NetApp, VMware, and Veeam.

Kent has also dedicated significant time and effort to volunteer work, including Big Brothers of Calgary and Canada and Junior Achievement Southern Alberta. He also remains deeply connected to his PEI roots, actively promoting PEI through initiatives such as The Friends of UPEI Calgary group and as Alberta Co-Chair for the Confederation Centre of the Arts’ Shared Voices Campaign.

Kent’s achievements have been recognized at the highest levels. In 2023, he was inducted into Cisco Canada’s Hall of Fame, a prestigious honour that highlights his exceptional contributions to the IT industry and his role as a trailblazer in fostering innovation and collaboration.

Today, Kent is widely respected as a leader in Calgary and beyond. His legacy is defined by his ability to bridge the worlds of technology and community, proving that with vision, hard work, and a deep commitment to helping others, it is possible to leave a lasting impact both in business and in life.

Kent received a Distinguished Alumni Award in 2024.