By: James A. D’Agostino, CEO, MEP Center Director
As Central New York stands on the edge of historic investment and transformation, TDO is sharpening its focus on what comes next. As the region’s Manufacturing Extension Partnership (MEP) center and a nonprofit consulting and training organization based in Liverpool, TDO exists to grow the local economy by helping manufacturers and technology companies drive operational excellence and cultural transformation.
By 2026, our vision is clear: Central New York will be recognized as a premier destination for modern manufacturing and technology-driven businesses—a place where companies of all sizes can compete globally, innovate continuously, and provide high-quality, family-sustaining careers.
Adapting to Rapid Change
Manufacturers in our region are navigating a perfect storm of change: shifting supply chains, digitalization, cybersecurity threats, workforce shortages, and evolving customer expectations. TDO is adapting alongside them in three key ways:
• From projects to long-term partnerships
Rather than “one-and-done” engagements, we’re deepening our role as long-term performance partners—walking alongside companies as they implement Lean, Six Sigma, quality management systems, and strategic plans that stick over time.
• Embedding digital and data into everything
Lean and continuous improvement remain foundational, but by 2026 our standard toolkit increasingly incorporates data analytics, Industry 4.0 concepts, and technology roadmapping to help companies connect their shop floor to real-time decision-making.
• Matching pace with policy and investment
Major public and private investments in advanced manufacturing and infrastructure are reshaping Central New York. As NYSTAR’s designated regional Technology Development Center and part of the NY MEP network, TDO is aligning its services with these investments so local firms can win contracts, scale capacity, and plug into new supply chains.
Strategies for Seizing New Opportunities
To help Central New York companies to lead, not just survive, TDO is pursuing several strategic priorities through 2026:
• Scaling Operational Excellence
We’ll expand training and hands-on coaching in Lean, Lean Six Sigma, and problem-solving to more companies and more people—from front-line operators to senior leaders. By standardizing methods such as Training Within Industry (TWI) and focusing on daily management systems, we help organizations lock in gains in quality, delivery, cost, and safety.
• Accelerating Innovation and Commercialization
TDO is strengthening its support for new product development, market intelligence, and commercialization to help companies bring ideas to market faster and with less risk. For researchers, entrepreneurs, and established manufacturers, we’ll continue to support technology transfer and the journey from start-up to mature organization.
• Connecting Companies to Growth Resources
Finding the time and funding to pursue big initiatives is often the biggest barrier. TDO helps companies navigate grants and funding programs that support product innovation, cybersecurity, workforce development, capital investment, export growth, and more—so they can act on opportunities instead of parking them on a wish list.
• Building Stronger Regional Networks
No single organization can drive transformation alone. By collaborating with economic development partners, education and training providers, industry associations, and peer MEP centers, TDO is helping create a collaborative ecosystem that shares best practices, attracts new employers, and strengthens local supply chains.
Preparing Workforce, Infrastructure, and Leadership for the Future
The future we’re aiming for requires more than technology—it requires people, systems, and leaders ready to use it well.
• Workforce: Skills for the Jobs of Tomorrow
By 2026, TDO aims to equip thousands of Central New York workers with the skills needed for advanced manufacturing and technology-enabled roles. That includes:
o Customized in-house training that builds practical skills in problem solving, standard work, quality, and safety.
o Upskilling programs that help experienced workers transition into higher-tech roles and leadership positions.
o Entry-level pathways that connect new talent to local manufacturers through basic manufacturing skills, culture of continuous improvement, and career awareness.
• Infrastructure: Systems That Can Scale
Implementing robust quality management systems to meet demanding customer and regulatory requirements.
o Designing efficient plant layouts, material flows, and visual management systems that support growth.
o Integrating digital tools, data collection, and basic automation in a thoughtful, ROI-driven way so that even small and mid-sized manufacturers can benefit from Industry 4.0.
• Leadership: Guiding Transformation, Not Just Managing Operations
TDO’s leadership development efforts focus on turning supervisors, managers, and executives into coaches and change leaders. Through strategy deployment, leadership coaching, and culture-building work, we help leaders:
o Translate regional opportunities into clear company strategies.
o Engage employees at every level in continuous improvement.
o Sustain transformations so today’s gains don’t become tomorrow’s slide back to “the way we’ve always done it.”
Looking Ahead
TDO’s impact is already measurable—its support generated hundreds of millions of dollars in economic impacts in supporting jobs, investment, cost savings, and profitable growth across Central New York. Our 2026 vision builds on that momentum. By helping manufacturers and technology companies train, develop, and optimize their people and processes, TDO is committed to ensuring that Central New York doesn’t just respond to change—it leads it. Together with our regional partners and the companies we serve, we’re building a future where Central New York is known not only for its history, but for its modern, resilient, and innovative manufacturing economy.
TDO is a consulting and training organization based in Liverpool, NY. Our mission is to grow the local economy by helping Central NY manufacturers and technology companies drive operational excellence and cultural transformation to reach their full potential. TDO’s support of the local mission generated $265 million in economic impacts in the last contract period supporting jobs, investments, cost savings, and profitable growth. If you are an SMM and would like to talk further, TDO’s team is experienced and fully certified to help. Reach out today to learn more and schedule a free consultation.