40 Under 40 Spotlight: Kenna Hubai — Where Leadership Meets Heart in Charlotte County


May 15th, 2025

Leading with Heart and Purpose Through Leadership Charlotte County

In every community, there are individuals who not only do their jobs well—but elevate everyone around them. Kenna Hubai is one of those people. As a leader in Charlotte County Public Works and a proud graduate of Leadership Charlotte, she brings passion, resilience, and a deep sense of purpose to everything she touches.

From a Military Upbringing to a Mission-Driven Life

Kenna’s story begins with movement. Born in North Carolina and raised as a military child, she lived in places like Germany, Japan, Monterey, and Northern Virginia. These global experiences shaped her adaptability and appreciation for service. Her family—her greatest influence—instilled in her the values of hard work, honesty, and kindness.

After completing four years of active duty in the U.S. Air Force, Kenna chose to continue her service in the Reserve. “There’s something to be said about being part of something much bigger than you,” she says. “Short of sounding trite, giving back to our nation is an indescribable feeling.”

Her military service equipped her with discipline, problem-solving skills, and a team-first mindset—qualities she carries into her leadership role today.

Finding Purpose in Charlotte County

Kenna came to Charlotte County seeking stability, but what she found was opportunity. She started as an Administrative Assistant II and climbed steadily—Executive Assistant to Economic Development, then on to leadership positions within Public Works. Today, she is the Business Services Manager, where her reach touches nearly every corner of departmental operations.

Her key to success? “Learn your job inside and out and prove you are trustworthy and dependable. Leadership around you will notice,” she advises. But she’s quick to add what truly matters: “Respect and grow your team. You need to be communicating the mission and telling them how they fit into the organization—often.”

Kenna’s leadership philosophy is rooted in authenticity. “If I can be sentimental for a moment,” she says, “I adore my team. They are amazing, and I wouldn’t be successful without them.”

Leadership Charlotte County: A Turning Point

A defining moment in Kenna’s career came through Leadership Charlotte. The experience deepened her connection to the community and fueled her passion for mentorship. Her class project, upgrading the press box at Carmalita Park, wasn’t just a task—it was a testament to community collaboration.

That spirit continues in her work today. Whether through Junior Achievement Inspire or Lean-In Charlotte, Kenna is dedicated to showing young professionals what’s possible in their own backyard. “These are the people who will be taking our places someday. It’s our job to show them what industries and careers are available right here in our amazing community.”

Innovation in Public Works

Kenna’s impact on Charlotte County is tangible. One project especially close to her heart: the transformation of the county-owned cemeteries. What started as a relationship-building effort with local funeral homes has evolved into a multi-phase modernization initiative.

They’ve added new message boards, wayfinding signs, and drone footage. Soon, an interactive GIS map will allow visitors to hover over a space to view availability, ownership, and interment details. “While this helps us streamline the backend processes,” she explains, “it more importantly helps a grieving family make decisions with a little more ease.”

Her role is dynamic. No two days are alike. From training development to grant oversight, public outreach to APWA reaccreditation, Kenna thrives in the challenge. “I remind myself, ‘I don’t have to do these things—I get to do them.’”

Building a Legacy

Kenna doesn’t measure her success in promotions or titles. She measures it in trust. “The opportunities I was provided by my leadership—I hope I’ve done the same for my team,” she says. “We serve our residents, and it’s our duty to ensure we’re leaving things better than we found them.”

Her efforts have not gone unnoticed. From launching award-winning onboarding programs to growing departmental training hours from 1,275 to over 9,500 in two years, she’s a force of innovation. But she’s also a champion of people—organizing mental health initiatives, holiday events, and communication platforms that connect teams across the county.

Living the Charlotte County Life

Outside of work, Kenna treasures life’s simple joys. Time at the beach. A quiet day at home with her husband, son, and cat, Poppy. “That’s where all my special things are,” she says.

Charlotte County isn’t just where she works—it’s where she lives and plays. And through Leadership Charlotte County, she’s helped make it a better place for everyone.

Discover Charlotte County’s Future—Through Leaders Like Kenna

Kenna Hubai shows us what’s possible when leadership is rooted in service and guided by heart. Her story is a testament to what can be achieved in a place like Charlotte County—a place that welcomes bold ideas, empowers its people, and thrives on community.

If you’re looking for a place to grow your career, raise a family, and make a difference, Charlotte County is ready. Through programs like Leadership Charlotte County, we’re not just preparing professionals. We’re cultivating changemakers.

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