In this issue, O&P News poses five questions to Scott Viglianti, president and owner of WBC Industries, based in Westfield, N.J.
Viglianti graduated from Susquehanna University in Selinsgrove, Pa. with a bachelor’s degree in economics in 1988. He went to work in the family business the summer after college as a production manager at WBC Industries, which was a startup company at the time. After advancing through the company, Viglianti became president and owner in 2005.
Viglianti is a member of the O&P News Editorial Board and the O&P News 175. Locally, he and his company work with Somerset Hills Learning Institute by donating velcro materials as well as financial contributions. In October 2012, WBC Industries was recognized at the school’s charity gala ball. The company also donates monthly to the Wounded Warrior Project. Viglianti and WBC Industries also are involved with many local volunteer projects.
O&P News: What are your hobbies outside of work?
Viglianti: I enjoy kayak fishing, jet skiing and walking my dog, Shelby. To balance out all that outdoor stuff, I enjoy good food and wine. I am also a huge sports fanatic and try to attend as many New York Giants and New York Rangers games as possible.
O&P News: Who has had the greatest influence on your career?
Viglianti: That would be my father, Bob [Viglianti]. As long as I can remember, I spent a lot of my free time at his O&P facility, Westfield Brace Company. He taught me so much about this incredible industry — so much that I was able to build and grow WBC Industries into what it is today.
O&P News: What was the defining moment that led you to your field?
Viglianti: When I graduated college, I was not really sure what I wanted to do. My father generously offered me an entry-level position in a new company that he started called WBC Industries. Working there brought back a lot of fond memories of working in my grandfather’s shoe store when I was much younger. I felt a tremendous sense of accomplishment at the end of each day, whether I was able to find a part that someone needed, get a custom fabrication job done ahead of schedule, or keep one of my customers within their budgetary constraints. People often tell me that it is obvious that I love what I do … and for me, it all brings me back to those times at my grandfather’s shoe store.
O&P News: What advice would you offer O&P students today?
Viglianti: We all know the academic requirements of an O&P student. These are pretty much the same for everyone. But if you want to be an exceptional technician or practitioner, there is more an individual can do. Attend a regional trade show in your area. It is a great opportunity to talk with the exhibitors and learn what is new and current in the field. Speak with other technicians and practitioners and learn about the challenges they face. If possible, have conversations with patients about their experiences as well.
O&P News: What is next for you?
Viglianti: I am constantly looking for new materials and textile fabrics that can be used in the O&P field. I feel that there is also something new out there that can be brought to the industry.
- For more information:
- Scott Viglianti can be reached by email at: scott@wbcindustries.com.
Disclosure: Viglianti reports no relevant financial disclosures.
