Gerald A. Ephault
Gerald A. Ephault is Regional Manager of the Pocono Northeast Region of the Ben Franklin Technology Partners of Northeastern Pennsylvania. The Ben Franklin is a state-funded economic development organization that links Pennsylvania companies with universities, funding, and other resources to help them prosper through innovation. The organization’s strategy encompasses three key areas: developing early-stage, technology-oriented companies; helping established manufacturers creatively apply new technology and business practices; and promoting an innovative community-wide infrastructure that fosters a favorable business environment for high-growth companies. The northeastern center, which serves 19 counties in northeastern Pennsylvania, is located on the campus of Lehigh University with regional offices in Wilkes-Barre, Lewisburg, and Reading.
Gerald is responsible for program advocacy, development and administration in the eight counties comprising the Pocono Northeast Region. He facilitates economic development by forming partnerships between client companies and appropriate resources. Resources include investment capital, college/university/faculty/student/equipment, professional business advisors, consultants and a network of economic development specialists. He has administered a portfolio of client activities representing 300 projects and greater than $15 million in BFTP funds and $73 million in total project investment.
Gerald came to the BFTP/NEP in 1987 from Haddon Craftsmen, Inc, a major book manufacturing company. He was Plant Manager with P&L responsibility for a 430 employee operation. He has extensive experience in entrepreneurial development, business administration, and manufacturing management. He received his Associate in Science and Bachelor of Science (Magna Cum Laude) from the University of Scranton. He received his MBA (Industrial Management) from Marywood University. He is a member of Alpha Sigma Lambda (Past President), Alpha Sigma Nu and Delta Tau Kappa Honor Societies. He is a recipient of the Outstanding Adult Student in Higher Education Award from the PA Association of Continuing Education.
Gerald currently serves on the Board of Directors for the following organizations: Carbondale Technology Transfer Center,, East Stroudsburg University Center for Research, Great Valley Technology Alliance, Marywood University’s Business and Managerial Science Advisory Board, Scranton Enterprise Center, and the Innovation Center@Wilkes-Barre. He is Chairman of the Wilkes University Engineering Department Industry Advisory Board, District Chairman, Mt. Laurel District, Boy Scouts of America, and Chairman of the Business Plan Review Committee, Great Valley Business Plan Competition Program. He is a member of the Leadership Lackawanna Alumni Association. He is past President of Archbald Borough Council and UNICO National, Scranton Chapter.
He and his wife, Darlene, reside in Bear Creek Township, Luzerne County.