Brenda Tuck officially assumed the role of executive director of the Selma and Dallas County Economic Development Authority in January 2025, marking a significant milestone in her career and a return to her roots. Tuck, who has over two decades of experience in economic development, was appointed as the successor to M. Wayne Vardaman, who retired after leading the authority for 24 years.
Vardaman expressed his confidence in Tuck’s capabilities, stating, “I am excited about Brenda assuming the role of executive director. I have worked with her in numerous roles over the past 30 years, and she’s very capable of leading the EDA into the future.” He praised her extensive knowledge and diverse background in economic development.
Brenda Tuck’s Journey in Economic Development
Tuck’s appointment not only signifies a new chapter for her but also a homecoming to the community where her career began. “I began my journey in economic development here, and I am very proud to be coming back home to work in our communities in Dallas County,” she stated. She acknowledged Vardaman’s contributions, noting the many job announcements and investments during his tenure.
A native of Limestone County, Tuck relocated to Selma with her husband, Shane, in 1995, where she spent 17 years. Her initial career path included nonprofit management and marketing. She served as the office manager for the American Cancer Society in Selma, coordinating support for patients and volunteers across eight counties. Following this, she transitioned to a marketing role at Selma’s American Candy Company, where she experienced the challenges of large-scale layoffs when the company closed.
In January 2000, Tuck joined the economic development team at Pioneer Electric Cooperative, where she worked alongside George Alford Jr. as office manager at the Innovation Centre. Under Alford’s guidance, she developed essential skills in negotiations, contracts, and the challenges faced by entrepreneurs in the region. “He taught me everything he knew,” Tuck reflected, emphasizing the mentorship she received during her formative years in the industry.
Setting Priorities for Economic Growth
In 2005, Tuck and Alford founded Alford and Associates LLC, expanding their economic development efforts across a wider area. Tuck later served as the executive director of the Marengo County Economic Development Authority before joining the Alabama Department of Commerce in 2016. In 2019, she became the first rural development manager for the state, working with 44 rural counties and fostering collaboration among economic developers.
As Tuck prepares to lead the Selma and Dallas County EDA, she has outlined her priorities, with a strong focus on existing industries. “Existing industries will always be first and foremost. We’ve got to take care of what we have,” she said. She aims to build on Vardaman’s legacy by continuing to recruit companies that align with the county’s strengths, particularly in terms of available industrial sites and infrastructure.
Tuck highlighted the need to address the shortage of ready-to-use industrial sites across Alabama, noting that Dallas County is facing similar challenges. Improving aging infrastructure in existing industrial parks will be crucial, especially as high costs have hindered necessary upgrades. “We’re not in this by ourselves,” she emphasized, underscoring the importance of collaboration with utilities, rail partners, and state resources.
Beyond physical infrastructure, Tuck identified the perception of Dallas County as a significant challenge and opportunity. “There’s this idea that there’s nothing there,” she said, while pointing out the wealth of industries and industrial parks within the county. Changing this narrative will require promoting what she calls “our best story,” which includes showcasing existing employers, new investments, and the county’s quality-of-life assets.
Tuck believes that effectively communicating these strengths is vital. “If we’re not telling our best story, nobody’s telling our best story,” she noted. She aims to remind stakeholders of the opportunities available in Dallas County, emphasizing the presence of worldwide companies and the region’s industrial diversity.
Her educational background reflects a blend of global and local perspectives. Tuck holds an associate’s degree from Wallace Community College Selma, a bachelor’s degree in business administration from Faulkner University, and a master’s degree in international relations earned through the Prince Khaled Fellowship at Auburn University Montgomery, in partnership with Maxwell Air Force Base.
In addition to her professional endeavors, Tuck and her husband have volunteered extensively, including serving as Alabama Goodwill Ambassadors and participating in the U.S. State Department’s International Volunteer Leadership Program, where they hosted delegations from around the world in Selma.
As Tuck transitions from a statewide role back to local leadership, she expresses enthusiasm for engaging in hands-on work. “From the state level, I’m really bringing in resources and guiding,” she explained. “To be able to jump in again and be effective on the ground in the community, just that hands-on aspect, that’s what I’m looking forward to the most.”
