John Hroncich is BAE Systems’ Director for North American Transit Sales. He will be a panelist at New York State Keeps the World Moving, a Manufacturing Forum organized by FuzeHub and NAmTrans that’s scheduled for Wednesday, September 10th in Rochester, New York.
Registration for this B2B event closes on Friday, August 29th, so sign-up now to attend. In addition to expert insights, you’ll gain access to OEMs who are seeking new suppliers. Below is a Q&A with John Hroncich that explains why BAE Systems will join us in Rochester. Come meet him there!
Why is it important for BAE Systems to be participating in this event?
BAE Systems’ participation in this industry forum isn’t just good for our business; it’s an exciting opportunity to connect with fresh talent, learn about breakthrough ideas, and hear ideas for a stronger local supply chain, all while showing the New York Community that we are leading the way in advanced manufacturing. It’s a chance to discover what’s next in the transportation equipment industry, build new professional collaborations, and be right in the middle of New York’s innovation energy.
What are some of the criteria that you consider when deciding whether to onboard a new supplier?
We consider the full professional package: quality products, reliable delivery, competitive pricing, and strong communication. We also want to see financial stability, a track record of performance, and the ability to scale as needs grow. On top of that, we value innovation, sustainability practices, and alignment with our own culture and values. The best suppliers are trusted collaborators who make it easy to do business that is mutually beneficial.
Government spending priorities change. Are there still strong opportunities in public transit?
Yes, there are still strong government spending opportunities in public transit, especially as it continues to be viewed as an investment in economic growth and community well-being. Reliable transit systems don’t just move people; they connect workers to jobs, students to schools, patients to medical care, and families to essential services. By improving mobility across all economic and social strata, transit investments strengthen local economies, reduce barriers to opportunity, and support healthier, more resilient communities. For governments, funding transit remains one of the most direct ways to stimulate economic activity while ensuring equitable access to opportunity.
What is BAE Systems’ footprint in NYS relative to the transportation sector?
BAE Systems has a powerful footprint in New York’s transportation sector, anchored by its Endicott facility. Over 1,300 employees work there, including engineers and technicians who design and manufacture cutting-edge electric propulsion and power management systems that drive cleaner transit. With a $65 million expansion underway to add battery production lines, labs, and new jobs, Endicott is fueling the future of electrification. Across the state, BAE Systems’ technology powers more than 2,000 hybrid and zero-emission buses, including fleets in New York City and Rochester. This is helping communities reduce emissions and modernize transit.
What else would you like small-to-medium manufacturers to know about working with BAE Systems?
They should know that BAE Systems values strong collaborations built on quality, reliability, and innovation. We look for suppliers who can bring fresh ideas, deliver on time, and scale with demand. Our company also values a shared commitment to continuous improvement and sustainability. Manufacturers who want to work with us should know that working with BAE Systems means being part of groundbreaking projects driven by a desire to share the future of transit technology.
Register to Attend NYS Keeps the World Moving and gain more insights from John Hroncich and other transportation industry experts as you uncover new business opportunities.