2019 WASTECON

Gena McKinley
Manager, Strategic Initiatives
Austin Resource Recovery


Gena McKinley is the Strategic Initiatives Division Manager for Austin Resource Recovery, the City department charged with the implementation of the City of Austin's Zero Waste Master Plan. The Division's work focuses on recycling economic development, zero waste policy and program development, business outreach and public education and marketing. By fostering innovative community-wide partnerships to advance zero waste, this work supports the necessary infrastructure for a resilient circular economy in Central Texas. Her leadership, commitment and advocacy for zero waste earned national recognition as she was chosen to be included in Waste360’s 40 Under 40 list of rising stars in the industry. Gena has earned a Masters of Public Health from the University of Texas School of Public Health and Bachelor of Arts in biology and sociology from Southwestern University. During her academic career, she focused on behavioral science and enjoys applying behavior change theory to the various aspects of her efforts with local government. Gena lives in Austin with her son and they can often be found on a hiking trail or listening to live music. She also spends time serving as a Guardian ad litem for children in the foster care system through CASA of Travis County and helping Health Alliance for Austin Musicians (HAAM) raise money to fund its efforts to provide healthcare for Austin musicians.

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