The process of Tech Transfer is typically filled with challenges. The TTP faces many twists and turns related to the technology, the IP, company contacts, the inventor, etc. There is plenty of opportunity for frustration and failure when confronted with the frequent, often difficult, problems that arise. However, the successful TTP has a problem-solver attitude: they expect problems to arise and take pride in using their skills, judgment and creativity to solve them.
Indeed, one of the joys of Tech Transfer is that every invention is different and will require a different solution. You will never be bored in this job!
Over time, others—inventors, licensees, department heads, etc.,—realize that the TTP brings tremendous value to the Tech Transfer process, in part due to their excellent problem-solving. The experienced TTP does not avoid problems that must be dealt with, but instead faces them head-on with a tool-kit and curious, can-do attitude. Indeed, a creative, problem-solving different solutions. The challenge for the TTP is to then lead the stakeholders towards accepting these improved approaches, and how those approaches will minimize risk to the institution.