Torbay, Canada, 8th January 2026, ZEX PR WIRE, Kirk Kendall is a mechanical engineer and project management professional whose career centers on disciplined execution, safety, and clarity in complex industrial environments. He currently serves as Vice President, Industrial at DF Barnes, where he oversees project pursuits, contract reviews, and the delivery of large-scale industrial programs across Atlantic Canada.

In his role, Kendall operates at the intersection of engineering detail and strategic oversight. He supports early-stage project development while remaining accountable for execution standards once work moves forward. This dual focus allows him to reduce risk before construction begins and maintain control as projects progress through planning, procurement, and delivery.

At DF Barnes, Kendall is involved in evaluating project feasibility, reviewing contract structures, and aligning internal teams with client expectations. His work emphasizes clear scope definition, disciplined scheduling, and communication systems that prevent downstream conflict. These practices play a central role in delivering projects safely and predictably in sectors where timelines, budgets, and regulatory requirements leave little room for error.

Kendall’s project experience spans aquaculture facilities, airport infrastructure, and industrial construction. These environments demand coordination across engineers, contractors, suppliers, and regulators. His leadership approach centers on structure. Expectations are defined early. Responsibilities are assigned clearly. Progress is tracked consistently. Issues are addressed before they escalate.

Before joining DF Barnes, Kendall held senior roles with Grieg Seafood, Colliers Project Leaders, and Amec Foster Wheeler. Across these organizations, he managed consultant teams, contractor coordination, and stakeholder engagement on technically demanding projects. Each role reinforced the same lesson. Strong systems reduce friction. Clear communication protects schedules. Planning drives outcomes.

Kendall’s leadership style reflects a steady, methodical approach rather than reactive management. He prioritizes preparation over correction. Risk reviews, contract clarity, and constructability planning receive attention at the outset. This reduces change orders, supports safety performance, and improves trust across teams.

His foundation in engineering informs every decision. Kendall holds a Bachelor of Engineering from Dalhousie University and a Masters Certificate in Project Management from Memorial University. He is a registered Professional Engineer and a Project Management Professional. These credentials support his focus on accountability, documentation, and repeatable process.

Kendall’s career also includes service as a commissioned Engineer Officer with the Canadian Forces. During that period, he led construction operations in Canada and completed an eight-month deployment to Afghanistan. The experience reinforced the importance of structure under pressure and decision-making in high-risk environments. Those principles continue to shape his professional conduct in civilian industry.

Safety remains central to his work. Industrial construction presents inherent hazards, especially in coastal and remote settings. Kendall approaches safety as a planning function, not a compliance task. Clear procedures, defined authority, and consistent communication create conditions where teams operate with confidence rather than hesitation.

In addition to project delivery, Kendall supports internal team development. He values mentorship and steady leadership. By setting clear expectations and maintaining predictable processes, he enables teams to focus on execution rather than uncertainty. This approach supports performance without relying on constant oversight.

“Good leadership removes ambiguity,” Kendall said. “When people understand scope, timing, and responsibility, work moves forward with fewer obstacles and better results.”

Outside of work, Kendall maintains a balanced routine that mirrors his professional discipline. He coaches youth soccer, trains in Brazilian Jiu Jitsu, and spends time hiking along the Newfoundland coast. These activities reinforce focus, consistency, and long-term thinking.

As Vice President, Industrial at DF Barnes, Kendall continues to support projects that contribute to regional infrastructure and industrial capacity. His role reflects a career built on preparation, clarity, and measured leadership. In industries where complexity is the norm, his approach emphasizes systems that support safe delivery and durable results.