Students Display Skills at Capitol Manufacturing Fair

May 16, 2025


 

I’d like to extend my sincere thanks to all the students, educators, and companies from across Connecticut who came to the State Capitol on Thursday for the Manufacturer Connection Fair. The event was an incredible showcase of what hundreds of our youngest and brightest innovators are capable of, and it was a proud moment to see so much talent and energy focused on the future of Connecticut’s manufacturing industry.

The fair was a huge success, and I was honored to participate alongside our local students as they explored the wide range of opportunities in manufacturing. They had the chance to connect with local companies and universities, learning about career pathways and educational programs in advanced manufacturing. Among the many impressive institutions represented was the Industrial Management & Training Institute (IMTI) in the South End of Waterbury, which continues to be a strong community resource offering hands-on training and certification programs for careers in the skilled trades.

As Co-chair of the Manufacturing Caucus, I was especially proud to speak with students about what’s possible right here in Connecticut. My colleagues and I are committed to making sure our youngest and brightest are informed about their options in manufacturing, robotics, and local educational opportunities. Before serving in the House of Representatives, I spent 36 years working in manufacturing—an industry that shaped my life and allowed me to contribute to the growth of great companies in Connecticut and beyond.

Manufacturing is the key to creating more good-paying jobs and strengthening our state economy. It offers a solid foundation for young people to build meaningful careers without having to leave their home state. Whether it’s through training programs, apprenticeships, or high-tech innovation, the manufacturing sector is full of potential. So please, tell the young people in your life—they have a bright future in manufacturing, and it’s waiting for them right here in Connecticut.