Dre Thompson  

Chief Executive Officer

Tucson Industrial Development Authority

Dre Thompson is the CEO of the Tucson Industrial Development Authority, a nonprofit financial institution dedicated to investing in the equitable, sustainable and innovative future of Tucson. 

Born in Sonora, Mexico, and raised in Tucson, Thompson earned a bachelor’s degree in political history and a master’s degree in social service administration from the University of Chicago. She is passionate about helping communities tackle vexing challenges through innovative and research-based initiatives. 

Thompson’s experience includes economic development through startups, gang violence prevention in Chicago, universal pre-K in New York City, and helping national utilities engage customers in energy efficiency. She brings a deep understanding of policy and experience crafting community-wide initiatives.

Thompson lends her time to Tucson Young Professionals, the Women’s Foundation for the State of Arizona, the Tucson Metro Chamber Talent Attraction and Retention Task Force, Pima Community College Business Advisory Committee and the Tucson Innovation Partnership. 

“There are so many exciting projects and people coalescing in Tucson. It is a great place for someone like me who is interested in leadership and helping to form the growth of the city.”