ISL Young Professionals – McKenna Schentag

Welcome to ISL’s Young Professionals! We feature ISLers who are taking the engineering world by storm. Get to know what led them to their career path, what their day-to-day looks like and what they think sets ISL apart.

Meet McKenna Schentag, a Landscape Architectural Designer for the Saskatoon office. McKenna has been with ISL for almost a year now. 

McKenna Schentag

McKenna Schentag

Landscape Architectural Designer

MLA, B.A.

What is your role at ISL?

My role includes working on a range of urban design, parks, and infrastructure projects where I contribute design concepts, technical drawings, and renderings, while collaborating closely with planning, engineering, and architecture teams.

What was the path you took to get to where you are today? (School, volunteering, work experience, networking, ect.)

I started with a degree in Regional and Urban Planning at the University of Saskatchewan, then went on to complete a Master of Landscape Architecture at the University of Calgary. Along the way, I gained experience through academic projects, design research, and collaborative work with architects and planners, which shaped my interest in how design can create healthier, more sustainable, and more connected communities.

What skills have you developed since joining ISL?

I’ve learned how to integrate creativity with technical accuracy, strengthened my visualization skills, and gained more experience with project coordination and contract administration.

What are some of your ISL highlights? 

Jumping into meaningful projects right away, learning from a talented team, and experiencing the strong culture at ISL that values both professional growth and fun!

What has been your favourite project to work on to-date?

The Wanuskewin Trail Assessment project in Saskatoon has been a favourite of mine. It’s been great to get out for site visits and work on a place I spent a lot of time at growing up. Being part of a project that’s so familiar and meaningful on a personal level has made the experience especially enjoyable!

What’s your favourite thing about what you do in your position at ISL?

I enjoy the collaborative nature of my role – the chance to work alongside engineers, planners, and architects to solve complex problems. I also love how every project connects back to people and place, whether it’s improving a park, enhancing a streetscape, or designing trail systems.

Any advice for students or new grads entering the industry?

You tend to learn the most through collaboration – both within your own discipline and with others. Be open to working alongside different perspectives, because that’s where some of the best problem-solving and design ideas come from!

Your Next Read