Long Island Innovation Park at Hauppauge

Building Long Island’s Talent Pipeline — Together

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Pictured, from left, moderator Rich Humann, President & CEO, H2M architects + engineers and HIA-LI Board Member. Panelists, Dr. Ed Bonahue, President, Suffolk County Community College and HIA-LI Board Member; Dr. Lawrence Eisenstein, VP & Chief Public and Community Health Officer, Catholic Health; Billy Haugland, II, CEO, Haugland Group; Robert Kufner, President & CEO, Designatronics Inc.

Last week, we took an extraordinary step forward for Long Island’s future.

Our first-ever HIA-LI Workforce Summit — held in partnership with the Smithtown Central School District and the Smithtown Industry Advisory Board — brought together more than 300 educators, guidance counselors, and business leaders at the Suffolk Y Jewish Community Center in Commack. It was a packed house, and more importantly, it was a packed conversation.

From the moment attendees walked through the door, there was an unmistakable sense of optimism and purpose. Teachers stood alongside business executives. College presidents spoke with construction and manufacturing leaders. Guidance counselors shared ideas with healthcare professionals. Everyone came with a shared mission: to bridge the gap between education and employment so our young people can build rewarding careers right here on Long Island.

The Start of a New Dialogue

For years, we’ve talked about the challenges of workforce development — the shortage of skilled workers, the exodus of young talent, and the perception that “success” only comes with a four-year degree. The summit showed that this conversation is changing.

What we heard — and felt — was a powerful message of alignment. Business and education both understand that the world of work has evolved, and our approach to preparing students must evolve with it. A college degree remains one valuable path, but so are two-year programs, certificate credentials, apprenticeships, and technical careers that lead to meaningful, well-paid jobs with growth potential.

Several speakers underscored how important it is to remove the stigma that sometimes surrounds the trades and vocational programs. In reality, those routes can open doors to prosperity — often with less debt and more hands-on experience.

Collaboration in Action

What made this summit so inspiring was seeing collaboration happen in real time.

  • State Senator Mario Mattera opened with a passionate call to unite business, labor, and education to build the workforce of tomorrow.
  • Rich Humann of H2M architects + engineers and Dr. Ed Bonahue of Suffolk County Community College — both HIA-LI Board Members and Co-Chairs of our Workforce Development Task Force — shared how we can better align education with industry demand.
  • Our keynote speakers, Michael Woods and Janine Lalia from the CTE Technical Assistance Center of New York, reminded us that true career readiness begins in our classrooms — where teachers and counselors help students see all the pathways to success.
  • Industry leaders like Billy Haugland II, Robert Kufner, and Dr. Lawrence Eisenstein showed that construction, manufacturing, and healthcare all have incredible stories to tell — stories that can inspire young people to build their futures right here at home.
  • And Phil Como from the Smithtown Industry Advisory Board brought it all together, emphasizing how partnerships like these directly benefit students — connecting education to opportunity.

The Momentum Ahead

The summit reinforced something I’ve long believed: when we put educators and employers in the same room, great things happen. Conversations turn into partnerships. Ideas turn into programs. And most importantly, young people begin to see new possibilities for their future.

Our HIA-LI Workforce Development Task Force will continue driving this momentum forward. We’ll keep facilitating these dialogues, supporting school-business partnerships, and expanding awareness of the incredible career opportunities that exist across Long Island’s innovation ecosystem.

The feedback from the summit has been overwhelmingly positive — from educators grateful for the insight, to business leaders eager to stay involved. But this is only the beginning.

We now have a foundation, a shared understanding, and a growing network of partners ready to take action. The challenge — and the opportunity — is to keep that conversation going.

Looking Forward

Long Island’s future depends on how well we prepare our next generation to thrive — not just in classrooms, but in careers that matter. The summit proved that we have both the passion and the partnerships to make that happen.

Together, we’re building a stronger, smarter, more connected Long Island — one that keeps our talent here, strengthens our economy, and ensures every student sees a future filled with promise.

Click here to download our workforce development report, Innovating the Talent Pipeline: Strategies for Workforce Development in the Long Island Innovation Park at Hauppauge. This 54-page report, developed by the Workforce Development Institute in collaboration with HIA-LI and the Suffolk County Industrial Development Agency, outlines the critical need for stronger industry-academia partnerships to prepare students for careers that are in-demand.

Connecting, Learning, Growing: The Power of One Day at the HIA-LI Trade Show

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Harris Beber, Global Head of Marketing for Google Workspace, will keynote the Executive Breakfast.

Every year, I get excited when May rolls around, because it means the return of the HIA-LI Annual Trade Show & Conference — and 2025 is shaping up to be one of our most dynamic and forward-looking events ever.

On Thursday, May 29, we will welcome some 4,000 business professionals and showcase more than 375 exhibitors at the Suffolk Credit Union Arena at Suffolk County Community College in Brentwood. This is the 37th year of the show, and our momentum just keeps growing. As always, our goal is simple: to create a space where ideas are exchanged, partnerships are formed, and Long Island business moves forward.

This year’s event, once again presented in partnership with our friends at Sands New York, is packed with opportunities for education, inspiration, and high-impact networking.

We’ll kick off the day with our Executive Breakfast at 8:00 a.m., featuring Harris Beber, the Global Head of Marketing for Google Workspace. Harris, who was previously CMO of Vimeo and has been recognized by Forbes as one of the top marketing executives in the country, will speak on the topic: “Demystifying AI: What It Is, What It Isn’t, and Why It Matters for Your Business.” In a business environment that’s moving faster than ever, this session will offer real-world insight into how AI is reshaping collaboration and productivity across industries. I encourage everyone to register early—this is a ticketed session with limited seating.

At 11:30 a.m., we turn our attention to economic development at the Executive Luncheon titled “Reshaping Long Island’s Landscape.” We’re thrilled to welcome Suffolk County Executive Ed Romaine who will provide opening remarks. Our panel will be moderated by Marc Herbst, Executive Director of the Long Island Contractors’ Association, and features an incredible lineup:

These leaders will discuss some of the most ambitious projects underway in our region, including Belmont Park Village, Station Yards, the hotel and resort casino proposal for the Nassau Hub, the Electron-Ion Collider at Brookhaven Lab, and the Long Island Innovation Park at Hauppauge. This is also a ticketed event, and I strongly recommend registering in advance to ensure your seat.

In addition to the breakfast and luncheon, we’re introducing exciting new content this year. Our new “Trade Show Talks” are fast-paced, 20-minute sessions hosted right on the trade show floor, which is open from 9:00 a.m. to 3:00 p.m. Topics include AI, leadership, business development, networking strategies, and workplace wellness. And of course, we’re continuing our ever-popular 60-minute breakout sessions, which cover everything from marketing to cybersecurity to relationship-building. Our Speed Networking sessions will also return this year, giving you the chance to make powerful new connections quickly and efficiently.

We’ll also feature six themed industry pavilions on the show floor:

  • Technology
  • Finance
  • Innovation & Economic Development
  • Energy & Environmental
  • Healthcare
  • Manufacturing (in memory of Ron Loveland)

Each pavilion is designed to help attendees focus their networking and learn what’s new in their specific area of interest.

Whether you’re looking to grow your network, explore new vendors, or learn from industry leaders, this show delivers. I genuinely believe there is no better one-day opportunity to engage with the Long Island business community.

Attendees are encouraged to pre-register to avoid the same-day $10 walk-in fee. For exhibitor and sponsorship opportunities, please reach out to Anthony Forgione, HIA-LI’s Director of Business Development, at aforgione@hia-li.org or call 631-543-5355. You can also find everything you need at www.hia-li.org/trade-show.

I look forward to seeing you on May 29. Let’s make it our best trade show yet!

Infrastructure, Housing, and Sustainability: The Roadmap from HIA-LI’s Annual Meeting

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More than 400 business, government, and non-profit leaders attended HIA-LI’s 47th Annual Meeting and Legislative Program.

On January 17, 2025, HIA-LI hosted its 47th Annual Meeting and Legislative Program, bringing together over 400 business leaders, elected officials, and dignitaries to discuss pressing issues and opportunities for Long Island’s economic growth. As I stood before this incredible audience, I couldn’t help but feel a deep sense of pride in how far we’ve come as a community and how determined we are to overcome the challenges ahead.

The event underscored the vital role HIA-LI plays in advocating for our members, connecting stakeholders, and driving meaningful action for the region. With leaders like Congressman Nick LaLota, Suffolk County Executive Ed Romaine, Suffolk County Presiding Officer Kevin McCaffrey, Islip Town Supervisor Angie Carpenter, and Huntington Town Supervisor Ed Smyth contributing to the dialogue, we demonstrated that collaboration between government and business is the foundation for Long Island’s prosperity.

The discussion was expertly guided by Joe Campolo, Managing Partner at Campolo, Middleton & McCormick, LLP, an HIA-LI board member, and Chair of our Long Island Economic Development Task Force. Joe’s skillful moderation ensured that key issues were explored in depth while keeping the conversation engaging and solution-focused.

Building a Business-Friendly Environment

The theme that resonated throughout the meeting was the critical need to create a more business-friendly Long Island. Congressman LaLota addressed the ongoing efforts to increase the State and Local Tax (SALT) deduction cap, emphasizing how this federal tax relief is essential for sustaining businesses and families in one of the most highly taxed regions in the nation.

At the local level, County Executive Romaine highlighted Suffolk County’s focus on infrastructure investments, including sewer expansion—a linchpin for economic development. Supervisors Carpenter and Smyth echoed this sentiment, emphasizing the importance of keeping businesses here and enabling growth through infrastructure support. Presiding Officer McCaffrey added his perspective on the importance of workforce development programs to ensure Long Island remains competitive. The unified message was clear: Long Island must continue to fight for its fair share of federal and state funding to maintain its position as an economic engine.

Infrastructure as the Cornerstone of Progress

One of the key takeaways from the meeting was the critical importance of infrastructure development, especially in areas like sewer systems, transportation, and clean water initiatives. As the second-largest industrial park in the nation, the Long Island Innovation Park at Hauppauge (LI-IPH) is a cornerstone of our regional economy, contributing over $13 billion annually. Yet, the lack of adequate sewer systems throughout the bi-county region remains a significant barrier to attracting new businesses and housing opportunities.

The urgency of addressing this was underscored by multiple leaders. Supervisor Smyth reminded us that “sewers are everything,” illustrating the environmental and economic consequences of outdated systems. Both Romaine and Carpenter stressed the need for careful, long-term planning to ensure that infrastructure projects like sewers, roadways, and renewable energy initiatives align with Long Island’s growth trajectory. These investments are not just critical for businesses but for the overall quality of life for residents.

Housing: A Challenge and an Opportunity

Housing emerged as another pivotal issue—one directly tied to workforce retention and economic vitality. The consensus was clear: Long Island needs more affordable housing to prevent the exodus of young professionals and families. In Islip, projects like TRITECH’s Shoregate in Bay Shore and the proposed housing at Pilgrim State exemplify how transit-oriented development can revitalize communities and create sustainable growth.

However, as Supervisor Carpenter pointed out, housing projects cannot succeed without the infrastructure to support them. Presiding Officer McCaffrey highlighted the need to balance housing development with the preservation of Long Island’s unique suburban character, ensuring that growth is sustainable and community focused. The call to action for state and federal partners was loud and clear—Long Island needs the resources to build not just homes but the roads, sewers, and public transit that make those homes viable.

Sustainability: A Forward-Thinking Priority

Environmental sustainability was another key focus. With Long Island’s unique position as a sole-source aquifer region, preserving water quality and managing waste are non-negotiable priorities. As landfill closures like Brookhaven’s loom, waste management has become a critical issue requiring regional solutions. Romaine, Carpenter, and Smyth emphasized the importance of recycling innovation and leveraging state resources to address these challenges.

HIA-LI is proud to support initiatives like the Suffolk County solar program and workforce development programs that integrate sustainability into our economic goals. These efforts align with our broader mission to ensure that Long Island’s growth is both responsible and forward-looking.

The Path Ahead: Action and Advocacy

As we move into 2025, our focus at HIA-LI is clear: continue building partnerships, amplifying the voice of Long Island businesses, and driving solutions for critical issues like infrastructure, housing, and sustainability. We are not just advocating for change—we are actively working with government and private sector leaders to implement it.

This year, we’ll host programs like the Workforce Development Summit and the Women’s Leadership Conference, fostering opportunities for innovation and collaboration. We’re also committed to expanding our footprint, with a 15 percent membership increase in 2024 already strengthening our collective voice.

To every business owner, elected official, and community leader who attended the meeting: thank you for being part of the conversation. Your engagement is what makes our work possible. Together, we can make 2025 a banner year for Long Island, one that sets the standard for economic resilience and community growth.

Let’s keep the momentum going. If you’re not already involved, I encourage you to join us. Let’s advocate louder, collaborate stronger, and ensure that Long Island’s best days are ahead.

A New Era of Health and Productivity at the Long Island Innovation Park at Hauppauge

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At Catholic Health Ambulatory Care at Commack are, from left: Declan Doyle, President, Catholic Health’s St. Catherine of Siena Hospital, Terri Alessi-Miceli, President and CEO, HIA-LI; Anthony Forgione, Business Development Director, HIA-LI; and, Randy Howard, COO, Catholic Health’s St. Catherine of Siena Hospital. St. Francis Heart Center is also at this location.

At HIA-LI, we are always looking for ways to further enhance the Long Island Innovation Park at Hauppauge (LI-IPH) and make it a thriving hub for business and innovation. I am excited to share with you our latest collaboration with Catholic Health, a partnership that promises to significantly boost workforce productivity and well-being within the largest innovation park in the northeast.

Enhancing Workforce Health and Productivity

Our collaboration with Catholic Health aligns perfectly with the recommendations from the Hauppauge Industrial Park Opportunity Analysis. The study highlighted the need for amenities that create a more dynamic live-work environment and promotes business growth. By introducing features that improve health and quality of life, we are paving the way for a more vibrant and productive workforce.

Comprehensive Health Services at Your Doorstep

What makes this collaboration possible is Catholic Health’s Ambulatory Care Center at Commack, conveniently located adjacent to the LI-IPH. This state-of-the-art facility will offer LI-IPH employees access to highly skilled physicians from multiple clinical specialties, all in one easily accessible location. Whether it’s primary care, accredited rehabilitation, or specialized services such as orthopedics and radiology, HIA-LI employees will have top-notch healthcare right at their doorstep.

Our employees will also benefit from a range of services provided by St. Francis Heart Center-affiliated physicians, comprehensive imaging services at St. Catherine Diagnostic Imaging, and much more. This proximity to high-quality healthcare is a tremendous asset for companies considering a move into the Park, as it underscores our commitment to the health and well-being of our workforce.

A healthy workforce is not just beneficial for individual well-being but is also a cornerstone of economic growth. As Carol A. Allen, Chairperson of the HIA-LI Board, aptly noted, “A healthy workforce is a productive workforce, and a productive workforce fortifies the Long Island economy.” Through our partnership with Catholic Health, we are taking significant strides to ensure that the businesses and non-profits within the Innovation Park can enhance their competitiveness through improved productivity.

A Visionary Partnership for the Future

I want to extend my heartfelt thanks to Dr. Patrick O’Shaughnessy, CEO of Catholic Health, and Declan Doyle, President of St. Catherine of Siena Hospital, for their visionary leadership in developing this partnership with us. Their dedication to providing compassionate and patient-centered care aligns seamlessly with our mission at HIA-LI.

During our recent Open House at the Ambulatory Center in Commack, HIA-LI members had the opportunity to tour the facility and meet the medical staff. The feedback was overwhelmingly positive, with attendees impressed by the state-of-the-art amenities and the quality of care available. This event highlighted the potential of our collaboration to significantly impact the health and productivity of our workforce.

Looking Ahead

This partnership is just the beginning. We anticipate that our collaboration with Catholic Health will lead to more effective workplace health programs and policies among Park employers. The availability of on-site wellness visits, telehealth services, and potential additional programming such as joint health campaigns and employee onboarding services will further enhance the quality of life for our employees.

Joe Campolo, Chair of HIA-LI’s Long Island Innovation Park at Hauppauge Task Force, expressed it well when he said, “This dynamic partnership has the real potential to reduce health risks and improve the quality of life for thousands of Long Island workers.” As we move forward, we are committed to exploring new opportunities and initiatives that will benefit our members and the broader community.

In conclusion, our collaboration with Catholic Health is a testament to our commitment to fostering a thriving, healthy, and productive environment at the Long Island Innovation Park at Hauppauge. We look forward to the positive impact this partnership will have on Park employees, our members, and the Long Island economy as a whole.

The Pulse of Progress: Exploring the Transformative Impact of the LI-IPH on Long Island’s Economy

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As the President and CEO of HIA-LI, I am proud that HIA-LI continues to serve as the steward and advocate for the Long Island Innovation Park at Hauppauge (LI-IPH).

One important recommendation that came out of the LI-IPH’s April 2019 Sustainability Study was that we should take a serious look at integrating workforce housing into the Park. It’s a concept in keeping with the “live-work-play” model that has worked so successfully in other Long Island communities such as Patchogue, Ronkonkoma, Farmingdale, and Bay Shore.

To that end, we teamed up with the Long Island Builders Institute (LIBI) and convened a March 28 meeting of residential developers to discuss opportunities in the Park. Joining me at the roundtable discussion was Michael Florio, LIBI’s CEO; Joe Campolo, Managing Partner at Campolo, Middleton & McCormick, LLP, an HIA-LI Board Member, and Chair of our Economic Development Task Force; Peter Hans, the Town of Smithtown Planning Director; and Cara Longworth, Vice President and Long Island Regional Director of Empire State Development.

Cara Longworth discussed the Long Island Investment Fund (LIIF), which focuses on large-scale, transformative projects that will have lasting impacts on the bi-county region. Eligibility for the fund was expanded last year to include infrastructure for transformative multi-family housing development projects to support regional industry growth.

She added that municipalities that achieve the State’s “Pro-Housing Communities” designation – because of their hard work to address the housing crisis – will receive priority in their applications for funding streams like LIIF.

Peter Hans spoke about zoning issues, specifically the town’s overlay district – approved in 2019 – which now permits residential development on certain parcels in the LI-IPH depending on size and location. Right now, Peter said there are 13 parcels eligible for mixed use/residential development.

The dialogue continued on April 16 when we welcomed a distinguished panel to discuss the immense opportunities at the LI-IPH. This event – titled “Why Do Business in the Largest Innovation Park in the Northeast” – was held at the Suffolk Y Jewish Community Center in Commack. It underscored our collective commitment to fostering economic growth and innovation at the LI-IPH.

The numbers are worth repeating: LI-IPH houses 1,350 companies who employ 55,000 workers and generate $13 billion in economic output. In short, one in 20 jobs on Long Island are dependent on the fiscal vitality of the LI-IPH. That’s impressive.

The morning began with inspiring opening remarks from Suffolk County Executive Ed Romaine; Town of Islip Supervisor Angie Carpenter; and Smithtown Councilman Tom Lohmann, the town board’s liaison to the LI-IPH. Their insights set the stage for a robust dialogue on the strategic advantages of doing business in the Park.

Moderated by Joe Campolo, the subsequent panel discussion featured key stakeholders including Kelly Murphy, Executive Director and CEO of the Suffolk County Industrial Development Agency (IDA); Mike Narula, CEO of Orbic, a firm new to LI-IPH that will be bringing a thousand new jobs from India; alongside Angie Carpenter and Tom Lohmann. Each panelist provided a unique perspective on the evolution and future of the LI-IPH.

Our panelists shared exciting developments within LI-IPH, including the sale of a $21 million vacant data center to Links Logistics, the transformation of a $5.3 million deal into a new headquarters for E+M Logistics, and a $44 million investment by Venture One Acquisition to create new industrial space. These investments not only demonstrate the economic vitality of LI-IPH but also highlight our adaptability and forward-thinking approach to growing our infrastructure and meeting the business needs of park tenants as well as the Long Island region.

Joe Campolo’s presentation focused on the transformation of LI-IPH from a traditional industrial park to a thriving innovation hub. He outlined the concept of an “Edge City,” which integrates business, entertainment, and living spaces, allowing for a dynamic community where individuals can live, work, and thrive without long commutes. This concept has turned LI-IPH into a model for modern economic development.

The Suffolk County IDA has been instrumental in supporting this transformation. Kelly Murphy noted that over the past six years, the IDA has facilitated significant investments that have led to job creation and retention, enhancing the economic fabric of Suffolk County.

Over the past three years alone, the Suffolk IDA has provided support to 21 projects in the LI-IPH, with a total private capital investment of more than $527 million, a total of nearly 5,000 jobs created or retained, with an annual payroll in excess of $350 million.

The Suffolk IDA’s efforts underscore the powerful impact of strategic governmental partnerships in regional economic development.

Council Lohmann spoke about a recent HIA-LI/Town of Smithtown partnership that saw the installation of over 400 sponsored flags throughout the LI-IPH, a visual representation of our pride and collective identity as a major economic engine. This branding effort – combined with new entryway signage thanks to the town – helps solidify the park’s presence in the community and beyond, reinforcing our role as a key player in Long Island’s economic landscape.

Conclusion: A Bright Future Ahead

As we look to the future, LI-IPH continues to be a beacon of innovation and economic prowess. Our ongoing initiatives, such as the development of workforce housing and infrastructure improvements, are poised to enhance our competitiveness and attractiveness to businesses and professionals alike. The discussions held during these two events are a testament to the collaborative spirit that drives our success.

We are grateful to all attendees, panelists, and partners who contributed to this enriching discussion. Together, we are setting the stage for continued prosperity and improvement at the Long Island Innovation Park at Hauppauge.

For more information about the Long Island Innovation Park at Hauppauge, go to www.li-iph.org. For information about HIA-LI and our initiatives, please visit www.hia-li.org. Let’s continue to innovate and grow together, building a thriving economic future for Long Island.

Shaping the Future of Long Island: Reflections from HIA-LI’s 46th Annual Meeting and Legislative Program

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Pictured: HIA-LI board members and Legislative Program panelists pause for a group photo.

HIA-LI’s 46th Annual Meeting and Legislative Program marked a significant confluence of ideas and strategies from key regional and statewide policymakers and leaders. This year’s event was a vibrant forum for discussing Long Island’s trajectory, focusing on economic growth, infrastructure, environmental sustainability, and adapting to new societal post-pandemic norms.

Here at HIA-LI, we’re extremely proud of the strides made in the Long Island Innovation Park at Hauppauge, a major economic engine with 55,000 employees and $13 billion in economic output. Significant achievements include new branding initiatives, such as the introduction of flags and signage as well as vital infrastructure developments such as sewage expansion.

Our focus on sustainable development is evident in our plans for electric vehicle integration and a transportation study for the park. We’ve broadened the scope of our Economic Development Task Force, while our Workforce Development Task Force has been pivotal in bridging the gap between businesses and educational institutions.

I’m especially proud of our membership growth of over 21 percent and our successful engagement strategies across all HIA-LI social media channels. That includes a new partnership with Going Local TV as well as the growth of our Business Steps Up podcast.

Kicking off the Legislative Program, newly elected Suffolk County Executive Ed Romaine’s comments were particularly noteworthy for its emphasis on environmental and infrastructural initiatives. He passionately advocated for a referendum on clean water, seeing it as vital for Suffolk County’s ecological future. Romaine highlighted the crucial need for the electrification of the Long Island Rail Road’s Port Jefferson line, explaining how it would revolutionize local transportation and stimulate economic growth. Further, he underscored the importance of securing equitable funding from Albany, essential for the region’s comprehensive development.

Smithtown Supervisor Ed Wehrheim – who also serves on the Long Island Regional Planning Council – shared his vision for Smithtown’s infrastructure development, specifically referencing his advocacy for sewage treatment plants as a catalyst for growth and environmental protection. Wehrheim emphasized the need for community-centric governance, stressing the importance of civic engagement in shaping effective local policies.

John Walser, Director of Economic Development at the Town of Islip, representing Supervisor Angie Carpenter, provided insights into the economic development strategies being implemented in Suffolk’s second largest township. He elaborated on initiatives aimed at strengthening local businesses and attracting new investment. Walser acknowledged the pivotal role of the Long Island Regional Planning Council in coordinating the region’s economic strategies.

We were once again honored that Lieutenant Governor Antonio Delgado joined us virtually via “live” Zoom. He articulated the state administration’s dedication to supporting Long Island’s communities. Delgado spoke on the significance of public-private partnerships in achieving community safety, affordability, and economic prosperity. He further highlighted the governor’s commitment to expanding the FAST NY program to prepare sites for development, fostering New York’s competitive edge in national job creation.

Delgado also discussed the “Long Island Forward” program, aimed at addressing the residential housing shortage by encouraging municipalities to create shovel ready sites through targeted incentives. The goal, he said, is to retain local talent, allowing young people to raise their families on Long Island with an eye towards strengthening New York’s economy.

After each speaker had a chance to present, a lively discussion ensued on a variety of timely topics such as reviving Long Island’s economy post-COVID-19, emphasizing technological innovation; addressing Long Island’s affordable housing crisis; the need for infrastructure improvements, especially modern solutions to traditional septic systems; and, advocating for environmental sustainability through green initiatives.

HIA LI’s 46th Annual Meeting and Legislative Program demonstrated the commitment and foresight of Long Island’s leaders. It also showed that the dedication and resilience of our members are the bedrock of our success. The discussions laid down a comprehensive roadmap for a sustainable and prosperous future in the bi-county region.

As we step into 2024, I encourage everyone to engage actively with HIA-LI, contributing to the collective growth and prosperity of this beautiful region we all call home.

Innovating the Talent Pipeline: A New Dawn for Long Island’s Workforce Development

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Rich Humann, President & CEO at H2M architects + engineers, and an HIA-LI board member, moderated the panel.

The much-anticipated report, “Innovating the Talent Pipeline: Strategies for Workforce Development in the Long Island Innovation Park at Hauppauge,” was unveiled at HIA-LI’s “Workforce Development Conference and Scholarship Awards” event on October 13, 2023, at Farmingdale State College. This report is a testament to our commitment, as outlined in my June 5, 2023 blog post, to address the skills gap on Long Island.

The Long Island Innovation Park at Hauppauge (LI-IPH), the Northeast’s largest industrial park, is a beacon of regional economic strength, with over 1,300 companies and employing more than 55,000 workers. However, the challenge of a skilled workforce shortage looms large. This report, a collaborative effort between HIA-LI, the Suffolk County Industrial Development Agency (IDA), and the Workforce Development Institute (WDI), provides a roadmap to ensure the long-term resilience and competitiveness of the Long Island business sector.

James Lima Planning + Development, a renowned a New York City-based planning, real estate, and economic advisory firm, undertook the strategic analysis. Their comprehensive study, based on surveys from 34 Long Island employers, sheds light on the skills and talent needs of businesses, with a special focus on the LI-IPH.

The report’s findings are both insightful and actionable. It emphasizes the importance of:

  1. Access and Awareness: An island-wide campaign to promote resources such as adult English classes, career support, and job fairs.
  2. Strengthening Industry-Academia Partnerships: Encouraging project-based learning, AI tools, and best practices in the manufacturing sector.
  3. Promoting Intra- and Cross-Sector Collaborations: Highlighting best practices, foreign language support, and software training.
  4. Fostering a Learning and Advancement Culture: Championing mentorship initiatives and branded learning programs.
  5. Building Affordable and Attractive Communities: Advocating for workforce housing and transit-oriented development.

I’d like to extend my gratitude to the panelists and contributors who made this event and report possible. Their insights and expertise have been invaluable.

And of course, a special thanks to our partners in this effort: Kelly Murphy, Acting Executive Director of the Suffolk County IDA, and Robyn Fellrath, Long Island Regional Director at the Workforce Development Institute. We couldn’t have done this without their steadfast support.

Another highlight of the morning was the Scholarship Awards ceremony. This initiative is more than just financial assistance; it’s a commitment to the future of Long Island. By providing scholarships to high school graduates who choose to pursue their college studies here on Long Island, we’re not only investing in their education but also fostering a sense of community and continuity. It’s a clear message: we believe in the potential of our young minds and the promise they hold for our region’s future.

It’s also a testament to our dedication to keeping local talent local. By incentivizing our youth to study and subsequently work in the Nassau-Suffolk region, we’re ensuring a steady stream of skilled professionals who are familiar with the unique challenges and opportunities here on Long Island. These young individuals, equipped with local knowledge and a world-class education, will be the driving force behind Long Island’s continued economic growth and innovation.

In conclusion, as the President and CEO of HIA-LI, I am proud of this monumental step towards bridging the skills gap on Long Island. The recommendations in this report are not just words on paper; they are a call to action. Together, we can ensure a vibrant, resilient, and future-ready regional economy.

HIA-LI Business Achievement Awards: Celebrating Long Island’s Finest

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Photo caption (clockwise from upper left): Jeff Reingold, COO, Contract Pharmacal Corp., “Large Business” winner; Jay Demetriou, President, LGC Studios, “Small Business” winner; Billy Hatzichristos, Founder and Owner, Native Ceuticals, “Rookie of the Year” winner; special guest speaker Suffolk County Executive Steve Bellone; Jennifer Marks, Long Island Market Team Lead, JP Morgan Chase & Co., “Leadership” winner; and, Karen Boorshstein, CEO, Family Service League, “Not for Profit” winner.

The Business Achievement Awards – our very own “Academy Awards” event – holds a special place in my heart. We were at the Crest Hollow last week to shine a light on the amazing businesses and organizations that represent the essence of Long Island. Each of them, from varied industries, share a similar optimism about the future. Each one of them value and celebrate their people. And they all constantly innovate, showcasing a deep-seated commitment to the Long Island community at-large.

HIA-LI stands as one of the recognized voices for Long Island businesses, a powerful force in regional and economic development. As many of you know, our voice echoes beyond the bounds of this event. We advocate passionately the Nassau-Suffolk region and for the Long Island Innovation Park at Hauppauge (LI-IPH) with its impressive economic output of $13 billion. Yes, billion!

But none of that would be possible without our committed board members, our dedicated staff, and our invaluable volunteers. Every event, every initiative is a testament to their hard work.

Carol A. Allen, Board Chair of HIA-LI and CEO of People’s Alliance Federal Credit Union, has been one of those stalwart supporters. Reflecting on her two-decade association with HIA-LI, Carol remarked, “Seeing the growth and resilience of the businesses that make up our community has been inspiring. HIA-LI has become a significant force, thanks to the collaboration of our exceptional board members and the unwavering commitment of our organization’s staff and leadership.”

Speaking of commitment, I was filled with gratitude to introduce someone who’s been a tireless advocate for our community – Suffolk County Executive Steve Bellone. Elected in November 2011, Steve has been more than just an effective executive, he’s been someone who genuinely cares, not just for businesses but for every individual on Long Island.

Due to term limits, Steve’s tenure as County Executive is drawing to a close, but his impact will be felt for generations. Reflecting on his transformative initiatives, Steve shared, “The transformation of Ronkonkoma into a transportation and innovation hub, supported by state and federal investments, signifies a new era for Long Island’s economic future. The upcoming Long Island Convention Center symbolizes our region’s ambition and potential.” Beyond infrastructural projects, he has always emphasized the importance of unity in political progress, noting the invaluable lessons of, “collaborating across party lines.”

And talking about collaboration and leadership, in the corporate world, JP Morgan Chase & Co. stands out for its commitment to the community of Long Island. Jennifer Marks, their Long Island Market Team Lead, embodies this spirit. With 17 years at the firm, Jennifer, alongside her dedicated teams, has been at the forefront of ensuring JP Morgan Chase gives back. Their philanthropic initiatives and volunteer leadership groups have left an indelible mark on Long Island, from packing food with Island Harvest to supporting military veterans. Their efforts, driven by the goal of inclusive economic growth and community support, underscore why JP Morgan Chase was a very worthy recipient of the 2023 Leadership Award. We applaud them for their unwavering commitment to the bi-county region.

The spotlight also shined on the Large Business category. Contract Pharmacal Corporation (CPC), led by their Chief Operating Officer, Jeff Reingold, has been a stalwart in the Long Island business community since 1971. Known for producing high-quality pharmaceuticals, their footprint in the industry is unquestionable. With 12 facilities in the LI-IPH, and producing almost 15 billion units annually, CPC epitomizes dedication to quality and teamwork. Jeff’s emphasis on the family-like spirit of the company along with their commitment to innovation and responsibility resonates deeply.

In the Small Business category, winner Jay Demetriou, President of LGC Studios, graciously accepted the award for the company’s steadfast growth and notable accomplishments. Highlighting his 30-year journey with the firm, which was founded by his father Greg, Jay emphasized the collective efforts of the LGC Studios team. With exciting announcements in the offing, Jay asserted LGC Studios’ ambitions for the future.

Karen Boorshtein, CEO of the Family Service League, the winner for the second time in the Not-for-Profit category, spoke passionately about the organization’s crisis services, specifically Joe’s Project — a program initiated after the tragic loss of a staff member’s son to suicide. Karen celebrated her dedicated staff and highlighted their unwavering commitment to assisting those grappling with mental health issues. With a deep focus on early intervention and mental health support, Family Service League offers a lifeline to many, including through their 24/7 Crisis Stabilization Center.

In the Rookie of the Year category, winner Billy Hatzichristos, Founder and Owner of Native Ceuticals, was enthusiastic about the growth and success of his hemp CBD business. Stressing the holistic health benefits of hemp and CBD, Billy touched on the transformative effects these products have had on a variety of ailments. He urged the community to embrace alternative, natural treatments, and to support local businesses that foster community health and wellness.

It’s important to recognize business excellence on Long Island, especially in these times. Congratulations to all the award recipients and the immense impact they’ve made on the bi-county region. We look forward to witnessing the continued growth and success of these influential businesses and organizations.

Elevating the Innovation Park with 400 Flags

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From left, Smithtown Director of Traffic Safety Mitchell Crowley; Councilman Thomas Lohmann; HIA-LI CEO Terri Alessi-Miceli; Long Island Cares CEO and HIA-LI Board Member Paule Pachter; and, Smithtown Supervisor Ed Wehrheim.

When you’re a part of something as impactful as the Long Island Innovation Park at Hauppauge (LI-IPH), you often think about how to better tell its story. I’m excited to share that we’ve taken a significant step forward in doing just that. We recently installed over 400 flags on light poles throughout the park. But why, you might ask, is this such a big deal?

The Importance of Branding

First, let’s talk about the park itself. Spanning 1,400 acres and housing 1,350 businesses, the LI-IPH is a cornerstone of Long Island’s economy. It employs some 55,000 people and contributes an impressive $13 billion to the annual GDP. However, it became apparent through an Opportunity Analysis conducted a few years ago that despite being an economic powerhouse, we needed to do more to elevate its public profile.

The Flag Initiative

That’s where HIA-LI, the organization I’m proud to lead, stepped in, together with the wonderful support of the Town of Smithtown, whose highway workers installed the flags. We decided to give our park’s identity a bit of a facelift, starting with these flags. These aren’t just any flags; they’re a declaration of our space as an economic engine for Long Island. Businesses within the park even had the chance to purchase their own customized flags, which were snapped up swiftly.

What Lies Ahead

This may seem like a small step, but in the grand scheme of things, it’s a catalyst for future growth. The banners serve as a daily reminder to all who pass through that they’re part of something larger — an innovation hub that not only drives employment but also contributes significantly to the local economy. I firmly believe that reinforcing this identity lays the groundwork for new partnerships and greater achievements.

The park already has an excellent track record when it comes to generating net new dollars for the region, a fact pointed out by the Opportunity Analysis conducted by James Lima Planning + Development. We have an exceptionally high proportion of businesses that trade outside Long Island, multiplying our economic impact.

I must give a special shoutout to Paule Pachter, a valued member of the HIA-LI board and CEO of Long Island Cares, Inc., for suggesting this flag initiative. It’s these kinds of ideas that bring a community together and make it stronger.

In wrapping up, I see these 400-plus flags as a promise — of more to come, of greater things ahead, and of Long Island Innovation Park’s continued role as a linchpin in the economic vitality of our region.

Steering the Future: HIA-LI’s New Workforce Development Task Force

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As President and CEO of HIA-LI, one of Long Island’s foremost business advocacy organizations, I’m excited to share that we are launching a new Workforce Development Task Force. This initiative underscores our ongoing commitment to supporting businesses and strengthening the economic framework of the Long Island Innovation Park at Hauppauge (LI-IPH).

The LI-IPH is a significant player in our region’s economy, serving as the largest business park in the Northeast. With around 1,400 companies that employ approximately 55,000 workers, it forms a critical part of Long Island’s economic pulse. However, like many regions across the country, Long Island faces a significant challenge: a shortage of skilled workers. This issue is not just immediate; it also has implications for our region’s future growth and resilience.

To address this challenge, we’ve assembled a task force with two specific goals: align resources to meet business needs and spearhead efforts to recruit and develop talent for in-demand careers. Our task force is led by two respected individuals, Rich Humann, President and CEO of H2M Architects & Engineers, and Dr. Edward Bonahue, President of Suffolk County Community College. They will leverage their expertise to foster meaningful collaborations between businesses, educational institutions, and workforce development organizations.

We draw inspiration from successful ventures like Suffolk County Community College’s Solar Installer Certificate Program, a perfect example of mutually beneficial academia-business partnerships. By facilitating similar collaborations, we aim to ensure students are equipped with hands-on experience and businesses have access to a well-trained talent pool.

In the evolving post-Covid landscape, it’s crucial to forecast the skills businesses will need. To this end, the task force will commission an extensive “LI-IPH In-Demand Skills Assessment” in partnership with the Suffolk County Industrial Development Agency (Suffolk IDA) and executed by James Lima Planning, a renowned New York City-based consulting firm. This project is made possible by a grant from the Workforce Development Institute, with additional funding from HIA-LI and the Suffolk IDA. The results will guide academia in reshaping curricula to align better with the future needs of the region’s economy.

Our task force’s initiative resonates with a larger statewide initiative – a $350-million initiative announced last year by Governor Kathy Hochul – to improve workers’ skills to meet job demands. This wider program forms a crucial element of a strategic approach to workforce development in the region.

Given the rapid pace of technological advancements, anticipating the shape of future work is a priority. The task force is committed to helping local businesses understand and prepare for these changes. By creating synergies between businesses, academia, and governmental organizations, we aim to foster a more resilient economy, attuned to both immediate and future needs of Long Island’s workforce.

Smaller businesses often find predicting future skill requirements a daunting task. Thus, we’re tailoring our efforts to help these firms, providing assistance to navigate and prepare for future demands. We are aiming to equip these businesses with customized programs that meet their ever-evolving workforce needs.

In conclusion, the Workforce Development Task Force reflects our dedication to continually fostering the growth and development of Long Island’s workforce. We view this initiative as a strategic response to current challenges, ensuring a more vibrant, resilient, and future-ready regional economy.

Stay tuned for information about our fall Workforce Development Conference where the results of the “LI-IPH In-Demand Skills Assessment” will be presented and discussed.