BEDA Appoints New Executive Director

Bluefield, WV — The Bluefield West Virginia Economic Development Authority (BEDA) is pleased to announce Sam Wolford as its new Executive Director, effective May 5, 2025.

Sam Wolford brings more than 30 years of leadership and service to the role, with a proven track record in economic and workforce development, strategic planning, and organizational innovation. He currently serves as the Southwest Virginia Region Client Growth and Development Manager for GENEDGE Alliance, the Manufacturing Extension Partner for the Commonwealth of Virginia.

In his current role, Sam has been instrumental in building relationships with local, regional, and state partner organizations, industrial associations, and manufacturing, technology, and industrial companies across Virginia. His work experience spans the full lifecycle of economic development projects, focusing on collaboration, innovation, and delivering results for clients and communities. Wolford has led numerous high-impact programs during his career, including regional initiatives which have helped support the growth of significant economic and job-related impacts for the business community and the Commonwealth of Virginia. His efforts have delivered long-lasting benefits to industries and communities across the Appalachian region.

"Sam’s extensive experience with both the public and private sectors, combined with his passion for economic revitalization and community partnerships, make him an ideal leader for the future of BEDA," said Bill Cole, Chair of the BEDA Board of Directors. "His deep roots in the region and strategic vision will help drive sustainable growth and new opportunities for Bluefield and the surrounding areas.”

Before joining GENEDGE, Sam served Tazewell County in key roles supporting public safety, technology, and workforce development, and led award-winning projects recognized with two Governor’s Technology Awards for Innovative Use of Technology in Economic Development and Government.

Sam holds a Bachelor of Science degree in Architectural Engineering Technology from Bluefield State College School of Engineering Technology & Computer Science, Workforce Development Professional Competencies from the University of Virginia School of Continuing and Professional Studies, and a Lean Six Sigma Black Belt certification from Virginia Polytechnic Institute and State University. Beyond his professional accomplishments, he has been an active volunteer, serving on boards and advisory groups for educational and nonprofit organizations.

"I'm honored and excited to return to the Bluefield community in this new capacity," said Wolford. "I look forward to working closely with local leaders, businesses, and residents to build on our strengths, attract new opportunities, and shape a strong economic future for the region."

Wolford’s appointment follows the upcoming retirement of Jim Spencer, who has served as Executive Director of BEDA since its creation in 2019. Spencer was originally hired by the City of Bluefield in 2015 and played a key role in establishing the Economic Development Authority. Over the past decade, Spencer's unparalleled leadership has left a lasting mark on the city and the region. Under his direction, BEDA successfully attracted new businesses, launched innovative entrepreneurial programs, and built partnerships with national institutions such as Santa Clara University to offer free online access to entrepreneurial education.

Among his many achievements, Spencer was instrumental in launching the Food Truck Incubator and the Commercialization Station, initiatives that have provided vital support for small businesses and startups. His work has resulted in the acquisition of over $14 million in grant funding for projects benefiting Bluefield and the wider region. Spencer’s dedication, vision, and tireless advocacy for economic revitalization have positioned Bluefield as a rising hub for innovation, entrepreneurship, and business development.

BEDA thanks Jim Spencer for his exceptional service and wishes him the very best in his recent appointment as the Regional Administrator for the Small Business Administration Mid-Atlantic Regional Office serving West Virginia, Virginia, Maryland, Delaware, Pennsylvania, and the District of Columbia.