CDOD Personnel Update
24 May 2024
News
For Immediate Release
Kristen Gamboa Named Executive Director of Carlsbad Department of Development
Carlsbad, NM – 5/24/24 - The Carlsbad Department of Development /(CDOD) gladly announces the appointment of Kristen Gamboa as its new Executive Director. With a robust background in economic development, community engagement, and strategic planning, Gamboa brings a wealth of experience and a dynamic vision to the role.
Gamboa joins the CDOD following her most recent position as Economic Development Specialist at the Public Service Utility of New Mexico (PNM), where she developed strategic plans to stimulate economic growth within the utility's service territory and New Mexico.
“I am honored and excited to join the Carlsbad Department of Development as the next Executive Director,” said Gamboa. “I look forward to leveraging my experience and working closely with the community, businesses, and stakeholders to drive economic growth and enhance the quality of life in Carlsbad.”
Ericka Laney, President of the CDOD Board, expressed her enthusiasm for Gamboa’s appointment. “We are delighted to welcome Kristen as our new Executive Director. Her proven track record in economic development and passion for community building make her the ideal leader for our organization. We are confident that under her leadership, Carlsbad will continue to thrive and attract new opportunities.”
Gamboa’s extensive career also includes key roles such as Senior Economic Developer for the Village of Los Lunas, New Mexico, and Director of Business Development at the New Mexico Partnership. She has a Master of Science in Psychology from Grand Canyon University, a Master of Arts in Organizational Management from Ashford University, and a Bachelor of Business Administration from the University of New Mexico. Her contributions to economic development have been recognized with awards such as the 2021 Rising Star from the Albuquerque Regional Economic Alliance and the 2022 Distinguished Alumni of the Year from Central New Mexico Community College. Some of her notable achievements include facilitating significant investments such as the $2.2 billion Meta Data Center Campus expansion and a $2.3 billion aluminum rolling mill project, both for the Village of Los Lunas.
Gamboa was selected after a national executive search conducted by The PACE Group, a national economic development search firm. She was one of several candidates considered from across the country.
As the new Executive Director, Gamboa will oversee the strategic direction of the CDOD, fostering economic growth, and enhancing the community’s prosperity through collaborative initiatives and innovative solutions.
For more information, please contact:
Ericka Laney
Board President
Carlsbad Department of Development
575.885.7460
About the Carlsbad Department of Development
The Carlsbad Department of Development is dedicated to fostering economic growth and improving the quality of life in Carlsbad and Eddy County, New Mexico. Through strategic initiatives and partnerships, the CDoD works to attract and retain businesses, support community development, and enhance the economic vitality of the region.