Nicholas “Nick” Vaseliv is a seasoned engineering and sales executive whose career spans more than thirty-five years in the electronics manufacturing and engineering industries. With a professional journey rooted in technical mastery and elevated through visionary leadership, Nick’s career reflects a rare blend of entrepreneurial spirit, operational acumen, and human connection. Having co-founded and grown successful companies, guided teams through acquisitions, and led major divisions within public corporations, he embodies the full arc of modern industrial leadership—from the production floor to the executive boardroom.
Nick began his professional journey in 1977 as a Technical Assembler at Ossmann Component Sales, where he immersed himself in the fundamentals of component and cable assembly. His early years were defined by an eagerness to learn and master complex systems, attending ten manufacturer-certified training programs that equipped him with the technical precision and problem-solving mindset that would become hallmarks of his career. His transition into engineering and sales was a natural evolution—his understanding of the technical process made him an invaluable bridge between customers and production, ensuring that product design and execution met the highest standards of quality and innovation.
In the early 1980s, Nick advanced to Field Sales Engineer at Ossmann Associates/Modutex. In this role, he covered an extensive territory across upstate New York, providing engineering support and sales leadership to clients from Syracuse to Niagara Falls. The experience honed his ability to translate technical solutions into business growth, and he quickly became known for his customer-first approach. He completed the Dale Carnegie Sales Course, an experience that cemented his belief in relationship-driven success and authentic communication—principles that have guided him throughout his life.
By the mid-1980s, Nick’s talent for both technical operations and leadership led him to ADD Electronics, where he was promoted to Sales Operations Manager. In this capacity, he managed value-added manufacturing across multiple U.S. branches, developing new processes that improved efficiency and customer satisfaction. His role required a balance of engineering precision and business strategy, skills that would define his leadership style for decades to come. When the company faced financial challenges, Nick’s resilience and integrity shone through as he helped manage the transition, overseeing the sale of assets and maintaining continuity for clients and employees alike.
In 1990, Nick took the bold step of entrepreneurship, co-founding Val-U-Tech Inc. in Victor, New York. What began as a small operation—selling by day and building product by night—grew under his leadership into a thriving enterprise with over 120 employees and two facilities. As Vice President of Sales and Co-Owner, he guided Val-U-Tech through nearly two decades of growth, innovation, and market expansion. His focus on engineering excellence, customer trust, and employee development fostered a company culture that valued both quality and collaboration. The culmination of his success came in 2008 when Val-U-Tech was acquired by IEC Electronics, a publicly traded leader in electronic manufacturing services (EMS).
Following the acquisition, Nick transitioned seamlessly into IEC Electronics as Vice President of Business Development. In this role, he brought his entrepreneurial insights into a corporate framework, helping the company expand its wire and cable engineering operations. His leadership extended from coast to coast, where he cultivated relationships with clients in aerospace, defense, and medical technology sectors. His influence was instrumental in driving growth through innovative product design and customer-specific manufacturing solutions, solidifying IEC’s position as a trusted partner in the EMS industry.
From 2014 to 2021, Nick served as Regional Sales Manager for IEC Electronics’ Wire and Cable Division. Managing a diverse range of accounts and overseeing new applications engineering, he demonstrated the ability to balance technical depth with business strategy. His leadership required frequent travel across the Northeast, engaging directly with customers and collaborating with regional managers to ensure seamless service delivery. His ability to adapt to evolving technologies while maintaining a strong customer connection made him an indispensable leader within IEC’s expanding national footprint.
In 2021, Nick brought his expertise to Creation Technologies as Product Cost Engineering Leader, where he was selected for his deep engineering background and industry insight. His tenure there reflected his ongoing commitment to excellence, mentoring teams and improving cost-efficiency strategies across the organization. Even as his role transitioned into technical consulting, Nick continued to influence projects that bridged sales and engineering disciplines, embodying the rare ability to connect innovation with execution.
Today, as a retired executive and consultant, Nick remains deeply connected to his lifelong passions: helping companies grow, mentoring future leaders, and contributing to industries that shape the future of technology and manufacturing. With decades of experience spanning aerospace, military, and medical sectors, he brings a holistic understanding of the complex interplay between design, production, and market success. He continues to be driven by curiosity, collaboration, and the desire to make a meaningful impact.
Beyond his professional life, Nick is an avid golfer and bowler and an active member of his community as an ex- Volunteer fireman involved with local fire museum activities. His commitment to teamwork, service, and precision—values forged both in the field and in the boardroom—define his character. With conversational proficiency in Russian and a global perspective shaped by years of travel and international business, Nick brings cultural awareness and adaptability to every endeavor.
As Nick explores new opportunities to serve on corporate and advisory boards, his mission is clear: to channel his experience, insight, and leadership into helping organizations innovate, expand, and thrive. Having witnessed the industry from every angle—technical, operational, and strategic—he offers not just knowledge but wisdom born of experience. His career is a testament to perseverance, integrity, and a lifelong dedication to growth.
Character:
Nick’s integrity and humility have guided every stage of his career. He is respected for his honesty, work ethic, and ability to lead with empathy and fairness. His personal values of commitment, service, and accountability are evident in both his business achievements and his community involvement.
Knowledge:
With more than three decades of experience in engineering, manufacturing, and sales, Nick’s technical and commercial expertise are second to none. His background in electrical and mechanical systems gives him an unparalleled ability to understand and improve complex operations. He continuously leverages this deep knowledge to guide strategic decisions and mentor the next generation of leaders.
Strategic:
Nick has consistently demonstrated the foresight to anticipate market shifts and position organizations for growth. From founding and scaling Val-U-Tech to driving innovation at IEC Electronics, his leadership has been grounded in data-driven insight and visionary execution. He approaches challenges with a long-term perspective, ensuring sustainable progress and measurable results.
Communication:
Throughout his career, Nick has distinguished himself as a clear, persuasive, and empathetic communicator. Whether engaging with engineers, executives, or clients, he bridges technical complexity with accessible understanding. His ability to listen deeply and articulate thoughtfully makes him a trusted voice in both boardrooms and production floors alike.
