CDR McKenna hails from New York. He received his commission from the United States Naval Academy in 2001 with a Bachelor’s Degree in Systems Engineering. He received his Master’s Degree in Systems Engineering and Analysis from the Naval Post Graduate School. 

His sea tours include USS McInerney (FFG 8), where he served as the First Lieutenant, Anti-Submarine Warfare Officer, and Electrical Officer, and USS Gettysburg (CG 64) where he served as Fire Control Officer as well as Training Officer. His Department Head tours included Chief Engineer for MCM CREW EXULTANT embarked in USS Warrior (MCM 10) and USS Dextrous (MCM 13), and Officer-In-Charge for Littoral Combat Ship Surface Warfare Module embarked in USS Freedom (LCS 1) and USS Independence (LCS 2).  His last sea tour was as Executive Officer of USS Chafee (DDG 90).

He served ashore in Surface Warfare Officers School as the N72 Navigation, Seamanship, and Ship handling Academic Director; at Engineering Assessments Pacific as the Littoral Combat Ship Deputy, a Damage Control Assessor, and Diesel Plant Assessor; and most recently as SUW, AAW, and MCM Lead Analyst for Command Pacific Fleet, N9 Warfighting Assessments and Readiness.

His personal decorations include Navy Commendation Medal (6 awards), Navy Achievement Medal (3 awards), and various service and campaign awards.