Byler named director of KSBDC
Monday, September 15, 2014 2:00 AM
News
Pittsburg, KS
Pittsburg
State Center for Innovation and Business Development Director Shawn
Naccarato has announced the appointment of Tom Byler as the new
director of the Kansas Small Business Development Center
(KSBDC).
Byler, of Fort Scott, has served as a business consultant within the KSBDC since 2008. He succeeds as director Kathryn Richard, who retired this year after more than 25 years in the position.
“My goal as director of the KSBDC is to be a leader in assisting small businesses innovate and grow, and as a result, help to have a positive impact on the economy of southeast Kansas,” Byler said.
The KSBDC, a component of Pitt State’s Center for Innovation and Business Development, is one of eight regional centers and 12 associate centers throughout Kansas. The KSBDC and its outreach centers provide assistance for small businesses located or intending to locate within its 12-county service area.
Naccarato said Byler has the experience and devotion to Kansas small businesses that is vital to his role as director.
“His experience, coupled with his commitment to identifying new and innovative ways to deliver small business counseling and programing, made Tom the perfect fit for the CIBD team,” Naccarato said. “He will play an important role in helping us maximize PSU's positive impact on economic development in southeast Kansas."
Byler, who earned a bachelor of science degree in police administration from Eastern Kentucky University in 1980, has a variety of experience in the small business industry, including owning a retail store in Fort Scott from 1995-2000.
“I know first-hand the challenges small businesses face every day, from sales and marketing, to meeting payroll, to monitoring cash flow, to controlling inventory,” Byler said. “This varied experience gives me a well-rounded background in helping potential business owners develop a solid plan and assist existing business owners in finding ways to improve their businesses.”