Insight: Andy Sepcie

By Michelle St. Onge

Photo by Jessica McCafferty

Hometown: Ridley Park, PA

Family: Wife, Galina; two children, Andy Jr. and Alyssa; two stepchildren, Alexander and Evan; multiple grandchildren

Education: B.S. in Technical Management (DeVry University), M.A. in Leadership (Penn State University)

Occupation: Vice President of Operations, Monaghan Medical Corporation

Community Involvement: Chair of the North Country Chamber of Commerce Board of Directors, Member of the CV-TEC Advisory Committee

Andy Sepcie has always embraced opportunity, even when the road was uncertain. Growing up in Ridley Park, Pennsylvania, he initially believed he wasn’t “college material” and took an early career path as a machinist. But his natural leadership instincts led him to pursue higher education while working full-time and raising a family. His journey, filled with personal and professional growth, eventually led him to Plattsburgh, where he now serves as Vice President of Operations for Monaghan Medical, a leading medical device manufacturer.

With over 20 years of experience in the medical device industry, he takes great satisfaction in knowing his work directly contributes to helping people live a higher quality of life. His expertise and commitment to improving patient outcomes have been a driving force throughout his career, making his impact both meaningful and lasting.

For Sepcie, working in the medical device industry is more than just a career—it’s personal. When his son was young, he faced severe respiratory challenges that required specialized care. A breakthrough came when a doctor introduced them to a valved holding chamber, a device that significantly improved how his son received medication. Years later, during a job interview, Sepcie realized the company he was considering was the one that manufactured that device. At that moment, his career path became clear. “I always remembered that device and what it did for my son. When I saw it during my interview, I knew this was where I was meant to be.”

More than just a business leader, Sepcie is deeply committed to the local community. From scholarships to corporate philanthropy, he ensures that his organization makes a meaningful impact beyond the walls of its facility. He sat down with Strictly Business to share his insights on leadership, success, and the power of authenticity in building relationships.

SB: What important lessons did you learn early in your career?

AS: The most important thing I learned was to stay true to my values. They define you. Always be authentic in your interactions because then you never have to create a different persona for different situations. Understand who you are and live by those principles.

SB: Do you have a mentor, or do you mentor others?

AS: I’ve never been part of a formal mentorship program, but I mentor people all the time—family, colleagues, employees. I believe in guiding rather than dictating, helping people challenge the status quo and think beyond the traditional way of doing things.

SB: What are you most proud of professionally?

AS: Going back and finishing my education while working full-time. And I’m not done yet—I plan to pursue a doctoral degree. My youngest son, who studied neuroscience, used to joke that he’d get his doctorate before me. It’s turned into a friendly competition!

SB: What is the best piece of advice you’ve received?

AS: It came from my father. He always stayed composed, even in the most difficult situations. He taught me a lot about emotional intelligence. He told me, “Don’t say anything unless you have something relevant to add to the conversation.” That advice stuck with me through the years.

SB: If you could have dinner with any well-known person, living or dead, who would it be?

AS: Nikola Tesla. I’m fascinated by wireless electricity and how it works. I’d love to have a deep technical conversation with him.

SB: What is something most people wouldn’t guess about you?

AS: I’m an avid home renovator. I’ve built second homes and remodeled every home I’ve lived in—plumbing, electrical, walls, kitchens, you name it. If I hadn’t gone into my current field, I probably would have been a general contractor.

SB: What does success look like to you?

AS: Success isn’t about titles or money. It’s about impact. The more I can help people, the more successful I feel. I gain energy from people, not from status.

SB: What is your favorite quote and how does it speak to you in your life?

AS: Patrick Lencioni said, “Not finance, not strategy, not technology—it is teamwork that remains the ultimate competitive advantage because it is so powerful yet so rare.” I believe in culture and I believe in people. What makes an organization great is who we are as a whole, not any one individual. We all work together to promote the greater good. Early in my career, I realized that I love helping people become better. That’s where I thrive. I’m not someone who dictates; I work with people to solve problems.

SB: What inspires you?

AS: People. Relationships make the world go round. That’s why authenticity is non-negotiable for me in both leadership and hiring decisions. You can teach skills, but you can’t teach someone to be genuine.

SB: How would you describe your leadership style?

AS: Management and leadership are different—management is about processes, leadership is about inspiration. I strive to provide vision, motivate my team, and help people see their full potential.

SB: What advice would you give to young professionals starting their career?

AS: Build real relationships. Success isn’t just about what you know—it’s about who you connect with and how authentically you engage with them.

SB: What do you do in your free time?

AS: I like to spend time with my wife and family. We enjoy boating in the summer and skiing in the winter. We also enjoy doing home renovation projects.

SB: Is there a local personality or business person you admire?

AS: Garry Douglas. When I first came to the area, I got involved with the Chamber of Commerce and saw firsthand how much of a resource it was, especially during COVID. If the Chamber didn’t have an answer, they found it. The culture and commitment of the organization are unmatched, and a lot of that comes from Garry’s leadership. His political connections, understanding of business, and ability to navigate complexities have been invaluable to this community. I don’t think the North Country would be where it is today without him.

SB: How would you like to be remembered?

AS: As someone who valued people, stayed true to his principles, and made a meaningful difference in the lives of others.