
Aleksi Makila
VP & Division Manager, Civil
Chandos Construction
Manager, Infrastructure Delivery


About
Jennifer
International trade and robust supply chains form the backbone of the global economy, relying heavily on the seamless operation of critical maritime infrastructure. In Canada, ports are among the most vital assets driving national prosperity, and keeping the nation's largest port running efficiently requires extraordinary technical and logistical expertise. Meeting this monumental challenge is Jennifer Johnston, the Manager of Infrastructure Delivery at the Vancouver Fraser Port Authority. As a distinguished engineering and project management professional, Jennifer’s leadership is essential to the sustainable growth and operational efficiency of this critical trade hub. With a career dedicated to the execution of massive, highly complex public infrastructure projects, she plays a central role in facilitating international commerce and strengthening the nation’s supply chain.
In her current capacity, Jennifer oversees the planning, design, and construction of vital port infrastructure, expertly navigating the intricate intersections of heavy civil engineering, environmental stewardship, and rigorous regulatory compliance. The projects under her purview are characterized by their immense scale and complexity, often involving intricate marine logistics, extensive stakeholder coordination, and the absolute necessity of maintaining uninterrupted port operations during construction. Jennifer’s exceptional ability to manage these competing priorities, while ensuring that projects are delivered safely, on time, and within budget, has earned her the deep respect of her colleagues, contractors, and government partners. Her leadership style is defined by collaboration, strategic foresight, and a steadfast commitment to technical excellence. She excels at uniting multidisciplinary teams—comprising engineers, environmental scientists, contractors, and municipal stakeholders—around a shared vision for successful project delivery.
By fostering an environment of open communication and mutual respect, she ensures that all parties are aligned and that potential risks are identified and mitigated long before they can impact project schedules. Furthermore, Jennifer is a passionate advocate for sustainable infrastructure development. She actively champions the integration of green building practices and climate resilience strategies into port projects, ensuring that the infrastructure built today can withstand the environmental challenges of tomorrow while minimizing its ecological footprint. Beyond her immediate project responsibilities, Jennifer is deeply committed to the advancement of the engineering and construction professions. She actively mentors emerging professionals within the Port Authority, sharing her extensive knowledge and helping to cultivate the next generation of infrastructure leaders. She also participates in various industry associations and forums, contributing her expertise to broader discussions on supply chain optimization and sustainable port development. Jennifer’s unique blend of technical brilliance, strategic project management, and unwavering dedication to public service makes her a standout leader in the Canadian industrial sector.
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