FLC director Paul Zielinski reflects on modernization and community as he prepares to retire

Paul Zielinski, who has led the Federal Laboratory Consortium for Technology Transfer (FLC) for six years, said he decided to retire to make way for new energy while expressing pride in the community and modernization work completed under his tenure.

"This is a really tough decision to make...the time is the time is right," Zielinski said, describing his decision to step away after decades in tech transfer. He credited the FLC community and long-term relationships as the most rewarding part of the job.

Zielinski outlined several modernization priorities he pursued as executive director: launching the FLC podcast, redesigning federallabs.org, introducing "FLC Business" as a one‑stop resource, and expanding data and digital tools. He said COVID accelerated virtual connection capabilities but affirmed that in‑person engagement remains essential for tech transfer.

On professional development, Zielinski emphasized formalizing career tracks and relaunching a mentorship program. "One of our biggest mandates is actually providing for professional development within tech transfer," he said, pointing to a learning management system and more interactive online courses as steps to raise the profession's profile.

When asked about the next leader, Zielinski said the successor must combine passion for tech transfer with the ability to turn community needs into actionable programs: "You have to have some vision...hear what the need is. Here's what we can do about it." He also called for someone who will promote the field to senior leadership and Congress.

Zielinski said he plans to take some time away from work after leaving federal service but does not rule out remaining involved with the community in an informal capacity. "My biggest hope right now is to take a little bit of time and not do anything," he said.

Host Andrea Nelson framed the interview as part of the FLC transition update and thanked Zielinski for his leadership and reflections. The episode ends with a note that the FLC will share updates about the search for a successor and continue to post resources on federallabs.org.