Chris McKenzie

Born and raised on Cape Breton Island, Chris McKenzie is a true champion of both golf and community involvement. As the Head Golf Professional at Miskanaw Golf Club and a dedicated volunteer and mentor, Chris has built a career rooted in connection, leadership, and service to others. His journey from the golf courses of exclusive resorts to Fort McMurray has given him a unique perspective on the importance of community engagement, and he’s committed to making a difference in every aspect of his life.

Now 40, Chris has deep ties to Fort McMurray. After studying at Holland College, he honed his skills at high-end private clubs before bringing his expertise to his community. He now has a decade of experience at Miskanaw Golf Club, one of the region’s most respected golf courses. His role as Head Golf Professional is more than just overseeing the course—it’s about building relationships and cultivating a love for the game among members and guests alike. “Miskanaw has some of the best members and guests in the country,” says Chris. “Building relationships with them over the years has been incredibly fulfilling.”

In addition to his role at Miskanaw, Chris is also deeply involved in the community. His passion for helping others is evident in his extensive volunteer work. He spent four years coaching the Holy Trinity Knights Varsity Basketball team, leading them to an Alberta North Zone Championship in his final season. His commitment to developing young athletes extends to the golf course as well—Chris is the Head Coach of the Fort McMurray Cubs Golf Team, where he works with junior golfers, competing in tournaments across Alberta. He also volunteers with organizations such as the SPCA, the START program, and the Wood Buffalo Sport Connection, and played a key role in running the largest golf-in-schools program in the country, teaching the sport to 15,000 youth across the region.

For Chris, the most rewarding part of his career is the ability to positively influence those around him. “I get to work alongside so many industry leaders at the RRC,” he says. “Being a leader to so many young employees in our community has been incredibly fulfilling.” His commitment to mentoring the next generation of leaders reflects his dedication to building a stronger community. With a two-year-old daughter, Wren, at home, Chris is more driven than ever to be the best version of himself. “My parents have always supported everything I’ve done, and now Wren drives me to be better every day.”

Chris’s passion for the Fort McMurray region is evident in his ongoing efforts to help the community grow and thrive. He believes that one of the biggest challenges facing the region is attracting young families and professionals. “The stigma surrounding Fort McMurray is still very real,” Chris acknowledges, but he’s hopeful that organizations like the FMWBED&T will work hard to showcase the community as a great place to live and work. For Chris, Miskanaw and the broader Fort McMurray golf community are key assets in this effort. “Golf plays a major role in so many people’s lives,” he says, “and I’m thrilled to help spread that message.”

Professionally, Chris has big aspirations for the future. He wants to continue growing as a leader and ambassador for the game of golf and for the region as a whole. He is determined to continue to advocate for Fort McMurray’s development while fostering a greater appreciation for the game of golf. “I may be biased,” he says with a smile, “but I think Miskanaw and golf in Fort McMurray are huge selling points for this community.”

Looking ahead, Chris hopes to recapture the Oil City Cup, a personal goal that reflects his passion for competition and his love of the game. But it’s not just about individual achievement—Chris is focused on giving back to the community that has given him so much. “It’s an honour to be acknowledged by my community,” he says. “Together, we can take this community to new heights.”

Chris McKenzie’s dedication to golf, leadership, and community involvement makes him a true asset to Fort McMurray. Through his work and his volunteer efforts, he’s building a stronger, more connected community—one swing at a time.

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