International Council on Systems Engineering Executive and Leadership Team

November, 2026

Leadership Overview

International Council on Systems Engineering has 8 executives leading key functions including organizational strategy, program development, regional chapter management, and board governance.

Committed to advancing the discipline of systems engineering, International Council on Systems Engineering fosters global collaboration and professional growth through interdisciplinary knowledge sharing and the creation of industry-standard work products.

Leadership Roles at International Council on Systems Engineering

  • President - Patrick Hale
  • President, Program Committee Chair - Chin-An Cheng
  • Chapter President - Mike VandenBoom
  • President - Craig Hayenga
  • President Elect - Channy Laux
  • President - Glenn Townson
  • Director At Large - Veronica Crichton
  • Director At Large - Kenneth Wadman
  • Patrick Hale - President

    Patrick Hale, the President at International Council on Systems Engineering, directs the overarching strategic vision for the organization. This leadership role involves aligning global membership goals with the core mission of advancing systems engineering principles. Patrick Hale oversees the executive board, ensuring that all initiatives support the development of interdisciplinary practices. By facilitating high-level collaboration among systems professionals, the President drives the creation of state-of-the-art work products that enhance the visibility of the discipline. The President maintains focus on long-term sustainability and the expansion of educational opportunities for the global community. Through rigorous oversight of organizational policies, the President ensures that all systems approaches remain relevant to modern industry challenges. This executive leadership maintains the integrity of the council while promoting excellence in systems engineering across diverse sectors and international markets.

    Chin-An Cheng - President, Program Committee Chair

    Chin-An Cheng, the President, Program Committee Chair at International Council on Systems Engineering, manages the complex intersection of organizational leadership and technical program development. This dual-function role requires the coordination of committees to produce high-impact educational content and networking events. Chin-An Cheng architects the framework for technical symposia, ensuring that all programs reflect current advancements in systems engineering. By aligning committee outputs with the broader mission of the council, the President, Program Committee Chair supports the professional advancement of members worldwide. This leadership position involves evaluating the efficacy of technical work products and refining strategies to meet the evolving needs of the global systems engineering community. Through meticulous planning and execution of program initiatives, the President, Program Committee Chair strengthens the council's reputation as a primary source for interdisciplinary knowledge and professional development.

    Mike VandenBoom - Chapter President

    Mike VandenBoom, the Chapter President at International Council on Systems Engineering, drives regional engagement and local implementation of systems engineering practices. This role focuses on building a robust community of practitioners through localized networking, educational workshops, and career-advancement initiatives. Mike VandenBoom oversees the operational health of the chapter, ensuring that local activities align with the global mission of the organization. By fostering connections between systems professionals, the Chapter President facilitates the exchange of best practices and encourages the adoption of standardized systems approaches. This leadership function involves managing regional resources to maximize member value and professional growth. Through consistent outreach and the promotion of systems engineering visibility, the Chapter President strengthens the council's presence within the regional ecosystem. This executive leadership ensures that the global standards of the organization translate into tangible benefits for local members.

    Craig Hayenga - President

    Craig Hayenga, the President at International Council on Systems Engineering, manages the operational execution of organizational objectives and board-level initiatives. This role focuses on the administrative and strategic alignment of the council's resources to support the global systems engineering community. Craig Hayenga directs the implementation of policies that promote interdisciplinary collaboration and the dissemination of systems knowledge. By overseeing the integration of new professional development tools, the President ensures that the organization remains at the forefront of industry standards. This leadership position involves coordinating with other board members to refine the council's long-term growth strategy and market impact. Through the application of rigorous systems thinking to organizational management, the President optimizes internal processes and enhances the delivery of member services. This executive leadership supports the council's mission by maintaining high standards of governance and operational excellence.

    Channy Laux - President Elect

    Channy Laux, the President Elect at International Council on Systems Engineering, prepares for future leadership by engaging in current strategic planning and organizational oversight. This role involves transitioning into key governance responsibilities while supporting the existing executive team in achieving the council's mission. Channy Laux evaluates current programs and identifies opportunities for future growth and innovation within the systems engineering discipline. By participating in board-level decision-making, the President Elect gains a comprehensive understanding of the operational challenges and strategic priorities of the organization. This leadership position requires a focus on continuity and the development of initiatives that will sustain the council's impact in the coming years. Through active collaboration with the current leadership, the President Elect ensures a seamless transition and the continued advancement of the council's goals. This executive leadership role is essential for maintaining long-term stability and strategic focus.

    Glenn Townson - President

    Glenn Townson, the President at International Council on Systems Engineering, directs the strategic initiatives that define the organization's role in the global systems engineering community. This leadership role involves overseeing the development of interdisciplinary standards and the promotion of systems approaches to complex problems. Glenn Townson manages the executive board's efforts to connect professionals with career-advancement opportunities and educational resources. By focusing on the production of high-quality work products, the President ensures that the council remains a primary authority in the field. This position requires the coordination of diverse stakeholders to achieve organizational objectives and enhance the visibility of systems engineering. Through the application of strategic management, the President drives the council's mission to foster a global community of practitioners. This executive leadership supports the organization's growth and ensures that all activities align with the core values of the council.
    Glenn Townson

    Veronica Crichton - Director At Large

    Veronica Crichton, the Director At Large at International Council on Systems Engineering, provides strategic oversight and contributes to the governance of the organization. This role involves participating in high-level decision-making processes that shape the future of systems engineering practices. Veronica Crichton evaluates the impact of current initiatives on the global community, ensuring that all programs remain aligned with the council's mission. By offering guidance on organizational policy and long-term planning, the Director At Large supports the executive team in achieving operational goals. This leadership position requires a broad perspective on industry trends and the ability to advocate for the needs of diverse membership groups. Through active involvement in board discussions, the Director At Large helps refine the council's strategy for enhancing the visibility and adoption of systems approaches. This executive leadership ensures that the organization continues to provide value to its members.

    Kenneth Wadman - Director At Large

    Kenneth Wadman, the Director At Large at International Council on Systems Engineering, contributes to the strategic direction and governance of the organization. This role involves analyzing organizational performance and advising on initiatives that promote the advancement of systems engineering. Kenneth Wadman oversees specific projects aimed at expanding the council's reach and improving the quality of its work products. By collaborating with other board members, the Director At Large ensures that the council's resources are effectively utilized to support professional development and networking opportunities. This leadership position requires a deep understanding of the systems engineering landscape and the ability to translate industry needs into actionable organizational strategies. Through consistent engagement with the board, the Director At Large helps maintain the council's position as a leader in the field. This executive leadership supports the overall mission by fostering innovation and excellence.

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    Frequently Asked Questions Regarding International Council on Systems Engineering Top Executives and Leadership Team

    Who leads International Council on Systems Engineering?
    International Council on Systems Engineering is led by Patrick Hale (President), along with executives such as Chin-An Cheng (President, Program Committee Chair) and Mike VandenBoom (Chapter President).
    Who is part of International Council on Systems Engineering’s executive team?
    The executive team of International Council on Systems Engineering includes leaders such as Patrick Hale (President), Chin-An Cheng (President, Program Committee Chair), Mike VandenBoom (Chapter President) and other senior executives.
    How many executives does International Council on Systems Engineering have?
    International Council on Systems Engineering has 8 executives leading key business areas.
    What roles are included in International Council on Systems Engineering’s leadership team?
    The leadership team of International Council on Systems Engineering includes roles such as President, President, Program Committee Chair, Chapter President, President, President Elect.