Dr. Lenker has spent nearly 37 years working in the field of education, with more than 20 years of school superintendent experience. Prior to position in Pitt County, he served as superintendent in Sampson County and Jones County.  In addition, he also has experience as a Central Office Director, Principal, and Assistant Principal in North Carolina, as well as a Calculus and Physics teacher in Virginia.

Dr. Lenker has an impressive and well-rounded educational background. He received his Bachelor of Science Degree in Mathematics Education from Virginia Tech and later returned to obtain his Master of Arts in Education Administration. In 2006, Dr. Lenker received his Doctor of Education from East Carolina University. He also studied at Virginia Highlands Community College, the University of Virginia, and North Carolina State University.

During his prestigious career, Dr. Lenker has often been recognized for his scholarship and leadership. He is a published scholar and has been asked to present or speak as part of a panel at many national education conferences.

Dr. Lenker joined STEM East, the education arm of NC East Alliance, in January 2024, where he currently serves as the Director of Industry Engagement. Lenker serves as the administrative lead for Health Sciences and serves on the Board of Directors for Eastern AHEC and the Northeast Regional School of Biotechnology and Agriscience (NERSBA).