U.S. Space & Rocket Center has a new CEO

Huntsville has a new leader taking the helm at one of its most iconic landmarks. The U.S. Space & Rocket Center officially announced that Tina Tucker has been named its new chief executive officer.

A Proven Leader for a New Era

The announcement came Thursday from the U.S. Space & Rocket Center Commission, the board responsible for overseeing the center and its world-renowned Space Camp®. Tucker, who currently serves as president of Pinnacle Solutions, an Akima company, is set to begin her new role this summer on July 6.

Tucker brings two decades of leadership experience across the aerospace, defense, and training systems sectors to the Rocket Center. With a background as a software engineer, she holds a bachelor of science in computer science from Austin Peay State University and a master’s degree in project management from the Florida Institute of Technology.

Finding the Right Fit

Tucker emerged as the top choice after a rigorous, months-long national search involving hundreds of candidates. Rey Almodóvar, chair of the U.S. Space & Rocket Center board, praised the selection, noting that Tucker embodies the visionary and energetic leadership required to drive the institution into its next chapter.

"She has the talent, the drive, and the creativity to lead this institution into its next great chapter," Almodóvar said. "We are thrilled to welcome her to the center."

Momentum in Exploration

Tucker steps into her new role at a high-energy time for both the center and the broader field of space exploration. With NASA’s Artemis program reigniting national interest in spaceflight, the Rocket Center remains a focal point for inspiration. This momentum is further bolstered by the recent opening of the Inspiration4 Skills Training Complex.

For Tucker, the opportunity is a perfect marriage of her professional background and her deep community ties. "Space Camp and the Rocket Center embody the excitement of exploration past, present and future," Tucker said. "I’m excited to carry that level of commitment, innovation and delivery forward as I join the amazing Rocket Center crew to advance our important mission."

As she prepares to join the team, Tucker will take charge of an institution that serves as a global destination, attracting visitors from all 50 states and numerous countries to its museum and educational programs each year.