He apparently has a lot of knowledge on plastics. which I happen to have as well but it makes no difference when it comes to niobium.
His expertise also involves design and installation of Rare Earth Element extraction plant equipment.
I doubt you will find many experts in niobium extraction as they seem to be tied up currently. To have a board member with his credentials is about as good as it gets. He has had nothing but time since coming on board to figure out what he needs to no to move the project forward.