The City of Canyon has appointed Michael Kitten as the new executive director of the Canyon Economic Development Corporation, bringing extensive experience in business development, workforce training, and strategic planning to the role.
Kitten most recently served as vice president of the Amarillo Economic Development Corporation, where he focused on supporting local businesses and attracting new industries to the area. Before joining AEDC in 2019, he was dean of technical education at Amarillo College and previously served six years as executive director of Hereford Economic Development.
He replaces Stephanie Tucker, who had served as Canyon’s economic development director since January 2023.
“We are excited to have Michael join the Canyon team,” said City Manager Joe Price. “He brings valuable expertise in economic development and a genuine passion for business retention and expansion — both of which are top priorities for Canyon. With Canyon’s economic development activity at an all-time high, Michael is the right leader to help guide us forward.”
Kitten holds a bachelor’s degree from Texas Tech University and an associate degree from South Plains College. He is also a graduate of the Texas State University Certified Public Manager program and the University of Oklahoma’s Economic Development Institute.
He is married to Brenda Kitten, a retired coach and administrator with the Hereford Independent School District.
“I’m thrilled to be joining the City of Canyon and the CEDC as we work to support the continued success of both new and long-standing businesses,” Kitten said. “With the vision of city leadership and a solid strategic plan in place, we’ve got the right tools to encourage growth while staying true to the strong civic and family values that make Canyon so special. Canyon is vibrant and growing, and I couldn’t be happier to help foster that growth into the future.”
