Thomas Kucharski Of Invest Buffalo Niagara On The Exciting Developments In US High Tech Manufacturing

An Interview With David Leichner

Being a Well-Rounded Individual: Manufacturing requires not only technical skills but also a well-rounded set of qualities. My nephew’s diverse interests and abilities make him an asset in various aspects of his career.

The global shortage of computer chip manufacturing has highlighted the urgency for the US to have a robust High Tech Manufacturing sector. As a result, the Biden administration has signed a bill to boost chip manufacturing in the US. In addition to computer chips, what other exciting advancements and innovations are US companies making in High Tech manufacturing? What is coming out in the near future? What would it take for the US to become a High Tech Manufacturing powerhouse? To address these questions, we are talking to leaders of High Tech Manufacturing industries. As a part of this series, I had the pleasure of interviewing Thomas Kucharski.

Thomas Kucharski has been the president and CEO of Invest Buffalo Niagara since 2000. He has led the organization to secure over 400 successful economic development projects, including in advanced manufacturing, agribusiness, technology, and more. This has attracted $4.4 billion in investment and created over 42,000 jobs in the region. Under his leadership, Invest Buffalo Niagara’s business development team has improved the economic development delivery system and created a collaborative environment of regional partners, governments, and private sector employers. The organization’s marketing department has received over 175 awards for its outstanding PR, promotional and marketing efforts. Tom is a Certified Economic Developer and has made significant contributions to economic development in various states, including Florida, Pennsylvania and New York. He is recognized nationally for his work and has been featured in prestigious publications. Tom has served on boards and committees of prominent economic development organizations and received multiple accolades for his contributions.

Thank you so much for joining us in this interview series! Before we dive in, our readers would love to “get to know you” a bit better. Can you tell us a bit about your ‘backstory’ and how you got started in manufacturing?

I was born and raised in Buffalo, and it’s been an incredible journey. While I have been the president and CEO of Invest Buffalo Niagara since 2000, my career in economic development and manufacturing started long before that. After getting an MBA from the University at Buffalo School of Management, I delved into economic development.

I became a Certified Economic Developer in 1992 and started as the executive director of the Lehigh Valley Economic Development Corporation in Pennsylvania. I then served as executive director of the Horizon Council of Southwest Florida, working to foster growth and opportunities for businesses in Sarasota, Fort Myers and Naples.

When I finally joined the Invest Buffalo Niagara team in 2000, it felt like a perfect fit. I also currently serve on the Buffalo Urban Development Corporation’s Board of Directors, the Central Terminal Board’s Treasurer, and am the past-chair of the International Economic Development Council.

So, that’s a bit of my backstory — from Buffalo to Florida to Pennsylvania and back to Buffalo again!

Can you share the most interesting story that happened to you since you began your career?

The recent acceleration in clean energy and sustainability projects has been extremely interesting, often complex, and rewarding work. There are so many moving pieces in these projects, with many different considerations depending on the discipline — whether solar, wind, hydro, etc.

These companies are disruptors. There is significant public and private capital invested, they are highly motivated, and there is urgency from all parties. As an economic developer, you are trying to match a project’s needs to your community’s assets and that’s an extremely interesting puzzle to solve with this quickly evolving industry.

Can you please give us your favorite “Life Lesson Quote”? Can you share how that was relevant to you in your life?

I have two favorite life lesson quotes that have been incredibly relevant in my life.

The first one comes from my maternal grandfather, whom my son is named after. He used to say, “When you say your prayers at night, think about one new thing that you learned today.” This simple yet powerful advice has stayed with me throughout the years. Every day, I make a conscious effort to reflect on something new that I’ve learned during the day. It keeps me curious and open-minded, and I believe you’re never too old to learn something new.

The second quote is something I picked up early in my career in economic development and has been particularly relevant in this field, “You’re never as good as you think you are, but you’re never as bad as they say you are.” It reminds me to stay humble and acknowledge that success is often a result of collective effort. It’s not just about individual achievements. On the other hand, when things don’t go as planned, this quote helps me keep things in perspective, learn from failures, and use them as stepping stones for growth.

Ok wonderful. Let’s now shift to the main focus of our interview about High Tech Manufacturing. Can you tell our readers about the most interesting projects you are working on now? How do you think this will help people?

Our economic development projects are confidential and often operate under a non-disclosure agreement. However, a growing and significant number of these projects are within clean energy and sustainability. Buffalo Niagara has low-cost, reliable hydropower from the Niagara River, so we have been a target for many cleantech manufacturing projects. Whether it’s Lithium-Ion batteries, long-lasting battery storage, solar, wind, or one of the many other creative solution verticals, these projects will each contribute to our path toward carbon neutrality, the clean energy transfer, and climate preservation that in turn helps so many people on a macro level.

Our greater Buffalo region is also situated along the Canadian American border, so I am often working on international expansions and foreign direct investment. These companies have different incorporations, different financial structures, and more, which make for interesting projects. Many advanced manufacturers look to our region as a front door to the US market, offering the ability to bid on US government contracts, add a ‘Made in the USA’ label to their products, and access an entirely new market of customers.

In addition to what you are working on, what other exciting advancements and innovations are US companies making in High Tech manufacturing?

For a while, we saw technological innovations rapidly advancing, but they seemed disconnected from our everyday lives and needs. It was challenging to see how these advancements directly impacted and improved the things we use and rely on daily. However, things have been changing, and now, we are witnessing exciting developments in high-tech manufacturing that are making a real difference.

One of the most significant shifts we’re seeing is the attention paid to preserving our planet while maximizing our resources. It’s no longer just about pushing boundaries for the sake of advancement; it’s about doing so with a purpose. We’re moving towards using fewer fossil fuels, creating greener alternatives and finding ways to reduce our impact on the environment. Advancements in transportation, healthcare, AI and renewable energy are just some areas where we’re witnessing significant progress.

Achieving these goals in these various industries requires something to be made, and that’s where high-tech manufacturing comes into play. The pieces are starting to come together, and we can see how these innovations are contributing to making our lives better and more sustainable.

Moreover, this growing awareness of the need for sustainability and responsible manufacturing aligns perfectly with the opportunities for qualified workers in the high-tech manufacturing industry. As this sector expands, there should be more opportunities to address social and racial equities within the industry, providing a path to more inclusive growth and development.

From your vantage point as an insider, what exciting developments will be coming out in the near future?

Depending on the industry, there are many exciting developments to anticipate, and the future holds immense promise across various sectors. For instance, in the life sciences field, we’re witnessing remarkable advancements and the potential for collaborations between companies and academic institutions. The possibility of 3D printing human joints is a game-changer, opening up a world of possibilities for medical advancements and regenerative therapies.

In advanced manufacturing, we’re seeing significant progress in greening processes and enhancing the speed and efficiency of material production. Although modernizing manufacturing processes presents opportunities and challenges, it allows us to involve more people, including coders, highly skilled machine operators, and technicians. This, in turn, fosters innovation in drug therapy and other medical applications.

However, smaller companies may need help keeping up with the rapid pace of development. Invest Buffalo Niagara’s free Economic Gardening program addresses this by providing local second-stage companies with resources and research to support their growth. The program helps these companies grow new verticals, enhance business models, and make data-backed, growth-minded decisions. Collaboration and innovation are essential drivers of progress.

What are the three things that most excite you about the state of US High Tech Manufacturing? Why?

1. First and foremost, I am thrilled that American manufacturers have realized their ability to compete in this space and their potential to emerge as leaders again. We used to be at the forefront of innovation and manufacturing, and now, that spirit of leadership is being rekindled. We’re not just one of the communities that led; we have the potential to lead once more. This realization among companies drives a renewed sense of ambition and determination, which is incredibly inspiring.
2. The second aspect I’m excited about is the profound effect of high-tech manufacturing on higher education and workforce training. We are witnessing the integration of manufacturing facilities and academic institutions like the University at Buffalo Centers of Excellence, creating a partnership between industry and education. This collaboration is leading to a more skilled and well-trained workforce equipped to thrive in the rapidly evolving landscape of high-tech manufacturing. Lastly, I am happy to witness the culture of collaboration taking root in the high-tech manufacturing sector. Cities like
3. Collaboration has become a driving force for progress and growth. Instead of competing against each other, we are now leveraging our collective strengths to attract investments and develop cutting-edge technologies. Moreover, collaborating with our neighbors in Canada is another testament to our commitment to building a more robust, mutually beneficial future. The better we collaborate, both within our communities and across borders, the more effectively we can utilize our natural resources and workforce to compete on the global stage.

What are the three things that concern you about US High Tech Manufacturing? What would you suggest needs to be done to address those concerns?

1. Firstly, it goes to my previous point about the benefits of collaboration. While our region here in Buffalo has seen great success from working more closely together, I want to ensure that is happening on a larger, national scale. Fifty states with different levels of policy-makers and incentive structures can create certain inconsistencies when attracting new companies to manufacture in the US, and so I think a more unified, national approach to how we capitalize on this moment of opportunity would be helpful.
2. Another concern revolves around the workforce. We are experiencing a generational shift in manufacturing, with many baby boomers retiring. Unfortunately, there aren’t enough skilled workers to fill these positions, leading to a potential skills gap. My father-in-law was a master millwright. When he retired, it took four people to do his job. There is a common misperception that getting a college degree disqualifies individuals from working in the manufacturing industry. We need to address the stigma. Manufacturing jobs often offer high salaries and should be considered a viable career option.
3. Lastly, if we truly want to uplift disadvantaged communities and address racial and socio-economic biases, we need to recognize an apparent disparity between the locations of advanced manufacturing facilities and where these communities reside. We must find ways to provide training and opportunities to those individuals to break the cycle of poverty and ensure a more inclusive and equitable future for all. To break the cycle of poverty and promote inclusivity, we must provide training and opportunities for individuals in these communities. Buffalo is home to Northland Workforce Training Center (NWTC), which focuses on closing the skills gap of the local labor pool and creating training, co-op, internship and permanent employment opportunities for those seeking high-paying advanced manufacturing and energy careers in Western New York. The facility is located on Buffalo’s East Side, a historically underinvested neighborhood, making these pathways to family-sustaining wages more accessible. Immigration policies can also impact the workforce, and it’s essential to continue supporting and embracing diversity in the high-tech manufacturing sector. By doing so, we can bring significant benefits to the industry and ensure a more equitable future for all.

Based on your opinion or experience, what would it take for the US to become a High Tech Manufacturing powerhouse?

We need to address many of the issues I just spoke about, but perhaps the most important is the need for the U.S. to develop a comprehensive and cohesive national strategy for high-tech manufacturing. Other countries benefit from a unified policy, while in the U.S., we often find ourselves competing against other states. We must foster collaboration between federal, state, and local governments, industry leaders, and academic institutions to succeed in this industry. This strategy should prioritize innovation, research and development, regulatory streamlining, and workforce development.

As you know, there are not that many women in High Tech Manufacturing. Can you advise what is needed to engage more women in these industries?

I wholeheartedly agree that engaging more women in high-tech manufacturing is paramount. A diverse workforce brings different perspectives and enhances productivity and innovation. To achieve this, we must address the stigma surrounding this field as predominantly male.

We must ensure that high schools and colleges actively include manufacturing as a viable career choice for all students, regardless of gender. Breaking down the misconception that manufacturing is solely a male-dominated industry is crucial. Manufacturing offers the same sophistication and technological advancements as other pursuits.

It’s also essential for companies to create policies and work environments that are attractive and supportive for women. Maternity leave, childcare options and flexible work arrangements are some considerations that can make a significant difference. A support system and guidance can empower women to thrive in the industry and break through existing barriers.

Fantastic. Here is the main question of our interview. What are your “5 Things You Need To Create A Highly Successful Career In High Tech Manufacturing?

I am going to use my nephew as an example. He grew up on a farm and was the first in his family to attend college. His impressive accomplishment can be attributed to five factors:

1. Hard Work and Dedication: Hard work is essential in any career, and manufacturing is no exception. Growing up on a farm, my nephew developed a strong work ethic early on. He doesn’t shy away from long hours and goes the extra mile to achieve his goals.
2. Emphasis on Education and Training: Recognizing the importance of education and training, my nephew knew that to secure a good job and build a successful career in manufacturing, he needed to invest in his knowledge and skills. He pursued relevant education and training opportunities to stay up-to-date with the latest advancements in the industry.
3. Willingness to Start from the Bottom: Understanding that there’s value in starting from the ground up, my nephew embraced the mindset that “You are never so big that you shouldn’t start at the bottom.” He was open to learning from the ground level, gaining valuable experience.
4. Fearlessness in Facing New Challenges: High-tech manufacturing is a rapidly evolving field with continuous advancements. My nephew isn’t afraid of embracing new challenges and adapting to the changing landscape. His willingness to learn and take on new tasks has contributed to his success.
5. Being a Well-Rounded Individual: Manufacturing requires not only technical skills but also a well-rounded set of qualities. My nephew’s diverse interests and abilities make him an asset in various aspects of his career.

You are a person of great influence. If you could inspire a movement that would bring the most amount of good to the most amount of people, what would that be? You never know what your idea can trigger.

I’ve gone through a lot in my 40-some years working in economic development, and I’ve learned that the key to true success lies in something quite simple yet immensely powerful: kindness. We find ourselves at a seminal point as a nation — embracing kindness can help us. There is great value in being kind.

How can our readers further follow your work online?

Check out Invest Buffalo Niagara’s website and connect with me on LinkedIn!

Thank you so much for the time you spent doing this interview. This was very inspirational, and we wish you continued success.

About The Interviewer: David Leichner is a veteran of the Israeli high-tech industry with significant experience in the areas of cyber and security, enterprise software and communications. At Cybellum, a leading provider of Product Security Lifecycle Management, David is responsible for creating and executing the marketing strategy and managing the global marketing team that forms the foundation for Cybellum’s product and market penetration. Prior to Cybellum, David was CMO at SQream and VP Sales and Marketing at endpoint protection vendor, Cynet. David is the Chairman of the Friends of Israel and Member of the Board of Trustees of the Jerusalem Technology College. He holds a BA in Information Systems Management and an MBA in International Business from the City University of New York.