Dr. Tamara Krawchenko is a researcher and academic whose career has been defined by a deep commitment to advancing community economic development. Currently an Associate Professor in the School of Public Administration at the University of Victoria, Dr. Krawchenko brings over two decades of experience as a leading expert in regional development, comparative public policy, and sustainability transitions. Her work is characterized by a focus on empowering communities, fostering inclusive economic development, and bridging the gap between policy and practice.
Dr. Krawchenko’s research portfolio spans more than a dozen countries, where she has led and contributed to international programs aimed at understanding and enhancing the capacity of communities to drive their own economic futures. Her approach is rooted in the belief that genuine development is most sustainable when it is generated from within—through the mobilization of local actors, resources, and knowledge. This perspective is reflected in her extensive studies of rural and urban development, where she has explored how place-based, multi-sectoral strategies can transform local economies and improve quality of life for residents.
In addition to her academic roles, Dr. Krawchenko has held influential positions in policy and research organizations, including as an Economist and Policy Analyst in the Governance and Territorial Development Division at the Organisation for Economic Cooperation and Development (OECD). Her work at the OECD contributed to the development of the “new rural paradigm,” which advocates for bottom-up, integrated approaches to rural policy and community development. She is a Strategic Research Area lead on the University of Victoria’s Accelerating Community Energy Transformation initiative.
Dr. Krawchenko’s scholarly output is prolific, with over 80 articles, books, and reports to her name. Her research has informed policy debates and practical interventions in areas such as Indigenous economic development, infrastructure governance, and sustainability transitions. She is recognized for her ability to translate complex research findings into actionable insights for policymakers, practitioners, and community leaders.
Throughout her career, Dr. Krawchenko has remained dedicated to fostering resilient, inclusive, and prosperous communities. Her work continues to inspire new approaches to community economic development, emphasizing the value of collaboration, local knowledge, and adaptive policy frameworks. As a mentor, educator, and thought leader, she is committed to supporting the next generation of researchers and practitioners in building stronger, more sustainable communities.