Your Partners for Success in Temple

— Adrian Cannady joined Temple EDC as president and CEO in September 2018. Adrian previously led the Victoria Economic Development Corporation as vice president of marketing, where he helped expand local industry and attract new business to the region. Adrian attended the United States Military Academy at West Point, N.Y. In his 3 years at the academy he studied Civil Engineering and Political Science while undergoing rigorous leadership training. He holds a Master of Science degree in Economic Development and Entrepreneurship from the University of Houston and is a graduate of the Center for Retail Studies in San Antonio, TX; and the University of Oklahoma’s Economic Development Institute in Norman, OK. He is a member of the Texas Economic Development Council and International Economic Development Council and serves on the boards of Team Texas and the Texas Economic Development Council.

— Tom Long was appointed as Vice President of the Temple Economic Development Corporation in April 2023. He leads the recruitment and expansion of targeted companies in the Temple area and strengthens relationships with partners to promote global business opportunities. Tom specializes in manufacturing, distribution, and data centers and holds a Master of Science degree in Economic Geography from the University of North Carolina. He is a Certified Economic Developer and an active member of several professional organizations, including the Texas Economic Development Council and the International Economic Development Council. Additionally, he serves on the Board of Directors for the Southern Economic Development Council. Prior to joining the Temple EDC, Tom served as the Managing Director of greater:SATX, the San Antonio regional economic development partnership, and also worked for CPS Energy in San Antonio. With almost 40 years of experience in economic development, Tom has worked for various organizations in the public and private sectors in North Carolina, South Carolina, and Texas. Despite being raised in North Carolina, he considers central Texas his home and remains a loyal Tarheel fan, as well as being partial to pork BBQ.

— Bridget joined the Temple EDC team as Director of Business Engagement in 2024. In this role, she leads efforts to engage and support Temple’s existing industries and businesses while advancing strategic partnerships. With a diverse background in economic development, local government, community relations, and project management, Bridget is adept at building support for key policies and initiatives. A passionate advocate for development, she brings over 15 years of experience fostering positive community and business relations, driving outreach, and enhancing engagement efforts. Bridget was born in San Antonio, raised in Washington state, and a proud graduate of Baylor University, Texas State University, and the Bush School at Texas A&M University. She is a member of Altrusa Temple, Downtown Temple Committee, Texas Economic Development Council, Project Management Institute, and Business Retention and Expansion International.

— Lisa joined the Temple EDC team in February 2025 as Director of Operations. In this role, she manages the organization’s day-to-day operations, working closely with the executive staff to oversee administrative and financial functions. With more than 20 years of experience in accounting, finance, human resources, and project management, she brings a wealth of expertise to the organization. A Central Texas native, Lisa is a proud graduate of Temple High School and holds a bachelor's degree in Business Management from Central Texas A&M. Outside of work, she finds her greatest joy in family and cherishes her role as "Nana" to five wonderful grandchildren.

— James Stafford joined Temple EDC as Director of Marketing & Communications in 2025. In this role, he gets to help craft the story of Temple EDC and highlight our great community as a premier destination for business investment and career growth. Before joining Temple EDC, James served as Public Information Officer for Bell County and the Director of Marketing & Public Relations for the University of Mary Hardin-Baylor. He holds a bachelor’s degree in communications from the University of Texas and a master’s in communications from Purdue University. James is an elder at Temple Bible Church and an active member of the Temple Public Library Board of Trustees, even though it does nothing to offset his late fees.