Getting to know Dave Tucker

Western Area Power Administration is excited to announce the appointment of David Tucker as the new Chief Technology Officer and Vice President of Information Technology – Enterprise Architecture. With a career spanning over two decades at WAPA, Dave brings a wealth of experience and a deep understanding of technology and power marketing. 

Tucker’s journey at WAPA began in 2002 as a contract business analyst and programmer in the Sierra Nevada region, where he played a crucial role in supporting a power billing effort and the Power Marketing Plan 2004. Over the years, he has held several significant positions, including systems integration architect and supervisory IT specialist, before becoming WAPA’s enterprise architect in 2012. 

“A consummate student of the business, David’s passion for WAPA’s mission is contagious,” said Mike Montoya, Senior Vice President and Chief Information Officer. “He is a visionary and a thought leader who knows how to move the needle incrementally. Toward that end, he has a keen ability to see the big picture, define the path to get there, anticipate challenges and design solutions to keep us moving forward.” 

Tucker has led numerous large-scale projects throughout his tenure, such as the launch of WAPA’s Shared Repository for Contracts, the introduction of The Information Bus Company, or “TIBCO” (a universal translator to connect all WAPA systems), and the development of WAPA’s cloud plan and strategy. His contributions have been instrumental in advancing WAPA’s technology infrastructure and capabilities. His leadership in the Data as a Strategic Asset project laid the foundation for WAPA’s business intelligence capabilities, highlighting his visionary approach to technology. 

What brought you to WAPA initially?

I started my career in private industry working in natural gas, and when I moved to California, I found a job in the electric sector as a contractor at WAPA. I truly enjoy the ever-changing electric sector and how it drives change in our society. As I got to know WAPA’s mission and people, I stayed due to both of those! 

How have your previous roles at WAPA (or elsewhere) prepared you for your new role?

In my time at WAPA, I have taken on various roles, mainly in IT but also a two-year detail in Power Marketing running the program for Market Redesign and Technology Upgrade for market implementation at the Sierra Nevada region. My roles enabled me to take on new challenges and exposed me to growth opportunities. I built my skills in leadership and a deep understanding of our business to be able to apply technology to drive our business outcomes effectively. 

What is something most people do not know about you?

I have a passion for soccer (or, for those of you purists, football) and played it most of my life from age five until about 51. I also coached both of my daughters for about 22 years. It is a passion of mine, but I am officially retired now! 

Who has significantly influenced your life and career, and why?

My father has been a significant influence in my life. I learned many things from him, including how to be a good father to my children. He was involved in my pursuit of soccer greatness throughout my entire youth. This also led me to give back to soccer by coaching youth soccer for many years. 

Do you have any favorite quotes or mottos that inspire you, and why?

One I made up myself: “The only thing constant in the world today is change. Embrace it.” 

What are some key lessons you’ve learned throughout your professional journey?

Be a life-long learner. Be open to new ideas and ways of doing things. Embrace change, take chances and don’t be afraid of failure. 

What are/were your initial priorities and goals as you step into this position?

Mapping WAPA’s technology to our business strategies and capabilities is a key enterprise architecture practice. Revamping our IT service management will increase our ability to deliver IT services more efficiently to our business partners and customers. Establish plans for IT research and development to evaluate evolving technologies and their application to WAPA’s business goals and outcomes. 

What are you most excited about in terms of the future of the industry?

Anyone who knows me knows that I am passionate about staying current on the electric industry trends. I practice “student of the business” daily by constantly reading and learning. It helps me do my job more effectively by understanding the issues and changes WAPA will face today and in the future and how technology can assist in solving those issues. 

Tucker’s appointment marks a significant step forward for WAPA. With his extensive experience, strategic vision and passion for innovation, he is well-positioned to lead WAPA’s technology initiatives and support the mission of delivering clean, renewable, reliable, cost-based federal hydroelectric power.