March 6, 2026 -- The economic growth and business expansion of the area, utilizing county initiatives, joint partnerships with local agencies, and state and federal programs, have been entrusted to Thomas Carlucci of Moosic.

Lackawanna County Commissioners Thom Welby, Bill Gaughan and Chris Chermak appointed Carlucci to head-up the department of Economic Development. He started March 2.

“Tom is a very bright individual with a wide variety of experience in several disciplines and his experience in government and grants applications will improve an already strong economic development office,” said Commissioner Welby.

“Tom’s background is impressive. I think he’ll make a good fit and provide a fresh perspective on economic development in Lackawanna County,” explained Commissioner Gaughan.

“Tom is a great fit with his diverse background, education, and community involvement. His contacts will be invaluable in opening-up our programs to business owners and our local elected officials and stakeholders. He will be a great asset for us and the county at large,” noted Commissioner Chermak.

“I’m honored to step into the role of Director of Economic Development for Lackawanna County. This is home for me, and I care deeply about seeing our communities grow and succeed. Throughout my career, I’ve worked in public policy, education reform, and nonprofit leadership building partnerships, launching initiatives like Coffee Inclusive, and mobilizing stakeholders at the state level with American Petroleum Institute to support complex policy and economic issues. I look forward to working with local leaders, business owners, and regional partners to strengthen our downtowns, support existing businesses, and attract new investment. My goal is simple: create opportunity, keep communication clear, and help move Lackawanna County forward,” Carlucci stated.

Carlucci began his professional career in 2012 as a community organizer for Families for Excellent schools. He coordinated various town halls and advocacy events. All aimed at advancing public initiatives. From there, he moved on for five years working as Founder and Executive Director of Education Enlightenment. Here he continued to work with school officials and civic leaders to advance initiatives to strengthen academics.

Carlucci worked with PA Inclusive from 2018-20 and 2023 to this year. Here he was involved in community relations and quality assurance. From 2021-23, Carlucci worked for the American Petroleum Institute as its state mobilization manager, continuing to apply his experiences on policy development and public interest matters.

Carlucci is a graduate of the Pennsylvania State University with a degree in Education and Public Policy Minor (Sociology). He also is working on a Harvard Extension School non-profit management certificate program.

Carlucci serves on the board of directors of the F.M. Kirby Center, is a UNICO member, and a former Fell Charter School director.

His salary is $75,000.