FLC Appoints Paige George as New Executive Director to Drive Technology Transfer Enhancements

The Federal Laboratory Consortium for Technology Transfer (FLC) has appointed Paige George as its new Executive Director, effective June 22, 2026. This leadership change is expected to significantly influence the landscape of technology transfer within the federal system. George succeeds Paul Zielinski, who has retired after successfully leading the consortium since 2020. George's appointment comes at a crucial time, as she brings more than ten years of experience in federal technology transfer, including her previous role as Technology Transfer Manager at the Naval Surface Warfare Center, Panama City Division (NSWC PCD). Her extensive familiarity with both the FLC and the technology transfer ecosystem is particularly relevant for Procurement Officers and industry stakeholders focused on commercialization and collaborative agreements.

George's career has been marked by notable achievements within the NSWC PCD, where she established the lab's first full-time Office of Research and Technology Applications (ORTA), thereby laying a foundation for effective technology transfer practices in support of defense operations. Her leadership experience, particularly as a past chair of the FLC's Facilitate Committee, positions her well to further the FLC's mission of promoting the commercialization of innovative federal research. As she steps into her new role, George’s aim will be to enhance partnerships between federal laboratories and private sector firms, ensuring that innovative solutions emerging from government-funded research translate into viable commercial products.

The FLC is essential in bridging the gap between federal research outputs and the commercial sector, making George’s leadership transition particularly notable for professionals involved in government contracting. As the FLC looks to improve operational strategies, George's background could yield new insights into cooperative agreements and outreach initiatives, vital for fostering strong relationships between labs and industry partners. Procurement officers and vendors can expect increased engagement and opportunities to participate in programs that leverage federal research innovations.

Moreover, the ongoing partnership between FLC and AUTM—the global leader in academic technology transfer—under the Accelerating Federal Technology Transfer Program further underscores the importance of George's role. This five-year cooperative agreement, which will run through 2029, is aimed at enhancing technology transfer mechanisms, providing a robust framework for contractors looking to engage with federal entities. Procurement professionals should monitor the evolution of this program, as it may result in various contracts and opportunities aligned with federal technology transfer objectives.

In his remarks about the transition, Steve Susalka, CEO of AUTM, expressed confidence in George’s capabilities, stating, "Paige brings a wealth of experience and enthusiasm to lead the FLC forward. Her adeptness in federal technology transfer...is an obvious fit for this critical role." This reassurance from an industry leader indicates the continuity of commitment towards the FLC's mission and the potential for stronger outcomes under George's guidance.

As the FLC's new Executive Director, George is poised to not only maintain the momentum initiated by her predecessor but also innovate strategies that enhance the operational synergies between federal laboratories and their commercial allies. Her engineering background and focus on STEM leadership indicate a strategic inclination towards technologies critical for the U.S. economy and national security.

To summarize, Paige George’s appointment as Executive Director of the FLC fosters optimism about the future of federal technology transfer, and it is likely to create procurement implications for industry stakeholders looking to leverage federal resources in their endeavors.

• The FLC plays a critical role in bridging federal research innovations with commercial applications, making this leadership transition significant for procurement professionals engaged in technology transfer and commercialization contracts.
• Procurement and contracting officers should note the continuity and expertise brought by George, which may influence cooperative agreements and partnership opportunities under federal technology transfer programs.
• Industry stakeholders and contractors involved in federal lab collaborations can anticipate sustained or enhanced engagement efforts to accelerate technology commercialization.
• The ongoing five-year cooperative agreement between AUTM and FLC under the Accelerating Federal Technology Transfer Program remains a key vehicle for facilitating these partnerships, with potential procurement implications for technology transfer services and support.
• George’s experience in establishing technology transfer offices demonstrates a proactive approach necessary for fostering collaborative innovation within federal agencies.
• The updated strategies under her leadership could refine processes affecting federal contract opportunities, making it crucial for companies to remain engaged in technology transfer dialogues.