Kaylene has been involved in vocational education and training for over 20 years in various contexts. Key roles have included leading the implementation of user choice in Queensland in 1998, followed by the position of Director, Infrastructure for the Department of Employment and Training from 2001 to 2004. From 2004 to October 2008 she was Director of The Bremer Institute of TAFE, during which time the institute won a number of state and national awards, including the Australian Training Provider of the Year in 2006.

Kaylene describes her leadership style as 'evolved' and is always looking for ways in which to broaden her leadership capability. Her style is very much about empowering and mentoring staff. She is a good listener and values the richness of various perspectives before taking action.