TechHelp receives federal award to continue supporting Idaho manufacturers

The U.S. Department of Commerce's National Institute of Standards and Technology has awarded a cooperative agreement to Idaho's Manufacturing Extension Partnership Center, TechHelp.

TechHelp serves as Idaho's official Manufacturing Extension Partnership Center, providing technical assistance, operational improvement support, and workforce development services to manufacturers across the state. Through the federal program, TechHelp delivers hands-on expertise that strengthens competitiveness, drives innovation, and advances economic impact within Idaho's manufacturing sector.

"This award reflects the strength of Idaho's manufacturing ecosystem and the dedicated professionals who support it," said Robert Buel, interim director of TechHelp. "Through our partnership with the National Institute of Standards and Technology and our university collaborators, TechHelp will continue providing high-value services that help Idaho manufacturers grow, compete, and succeed."

TechHelp also announced a leadership transition. Brad McDonald has stepped down as director of TechHelp. Robert Buel has assumed the role of interim director effective immediately.

"Continuity is our priority," Buel said. "Our clients, partners, and university stakeholders can expect the same level of commitment, service, and strategic alignment that has defined TechHelp's work across the state."

TechHelp operates in partnership with Boise State, Idaho State University, the University of Idaho, and the Idaho Manufacturing Alliance, leveraging university expertise and nonprofit outreach to deliver technical solutions and applied learning opportunities. Programs such as studio\Blu extend this impact by connecting students with real-world industry challenges.

For more information, contact Gary Tucker at [email protected].

About Robert Buel

With 17 years of leadership experience at TechHelp, Robert Buel steps into the interim director role with deep institutional knowledge and extensive experience in the Manufacturing Extension Partnership program. He has played a central role in advancing TechHelp's statewide impact and strengthening strategic alignment with university and industry partners.

Buel has worked extensively with Boise State University, Idaho State University, the University of Idaho, and the Idaho Manufacturing Alliance to strengthen collaboration, expand program reach, and ensure consistent delivery of high-value services to Idaho manufacturers. His experience positions him to provide steady leadership, maintain momentum, and guide TechHelp through its next phase.

About TechHelp

TechHelp is Idaho's Manufacturing Extension Partnership Center, part of the National Institute of Standards and Technology's Hollings Manufacturing Extension Partnership program. Through statewide partnerships and hands-on technical assistance, TechHelp supports manufacturers in improving productivity, enhancing quality systems, strengthening supply chains, and advancing innovation.

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