Joe O'Nan Named KSTC CFO

The Kentucky Science and Technology Corporation (KSTC) has appointed Joe O’Nan as its new chief financial officer (CFO), strengthening our capacity to support economic growth throughout the commonwealth.  

O’Nan brings more than 20 years of financial leadership experience across both Fortune 500 and privately held international companies. Most recently, he served as CFO at Commercial Specialty Truck Holdings and previously served as vice president and CFO at LBX Company. His expertise spans global finance, treasury, audit and strategic planning. 

“Joe’s deep understanding of financial strategy combined with a genuine passion for advancing Kentucky’s tech-based economy make him a valuable addition to our team. We’re grateful to our outgoing CFO, Steve Pelphrey, whose commitment and contributions have been instrumental in driving significant growth during his tenure. With Joe’s strategic vision, we’re excited to build on that momentum as we chart the course for KSTC’s future.” KSTC President Terry Samuel

Joe O'Nan

As CFO, O’Nan will oversee KSTC’s financial operations and planning, supporting the organization’s growing portfolio of innovation-driven programs and initiatives. 

“Growing up in rural Western Kentucky, I’m honored to join KSTC and contribute to its mission to foster innovation and economic growth in Kentucky,” said O’Nan. “I look forward to supporting the talented team at KSTC to make this mission a reality.”                                                                                                  

O’Nan is also an active community leader, having served on the Kentucky District Export Council and the Lexington Dream Factory. He has participated in the University of Kentucky MBA program’s Project Connect for the past four years and has served as a panelist for the program’s Finance Career Seminar for the past three. 

He succeeds Steve Pelphrey, who served as CFO since 2017 and announced his retirement earlier this year. We extend our sincere thanks to Pelphrey for his years of dedicated service and leadership. 

Since its founding in 1987, KSTC has worked to accelerate technology-driven economic development in Kentucky through strategic partnerships, innovative programs and research initiatives. O’Nan’s leadership as CFO will help advance this mission and position the organization for continued success.