CONNSTEP Elects Two New Members to Board of Directors

CONNSTEP, Connecticut's leading manufacturing solutions provider, announces the election of two new members to its Board of Directors.

“CONNSTEP’s mission is to provide the guidance and expertise Connecticut’s small and medium-sized manufacturers need to grow, navigate compliance, and remain competitive,” said Beatriz N. Gutierrez, CONNSTEP President & CEO. “Our Board plays a critical role in advancing that mission, which is why we are thrilled to welcome Michael Scotto and Christian Colon. Their combined leadership and expertise in the aerospace manufacturing sector add tremendous depth to our organization and will provide valuable insight as we continue supporting Connecticut’s manufacturers.”

Michael Scotto is Vice President of Business Development at Alpha Q, Inc., a Colchester-based aerospace manufacturer that has specialized in the precision machining and assembly of complex aerospace engine components for more than 50 years.

With a background in manufacturing engineering, Scotto brings more than four decades of aerospace experience spanning business development, engineering, global sales, and strategic partnerships.

“Throughout my career, I have believed that a strong manufacturing sector is essential to building a resilient economy and creating opportunities for businesses, employees, and communities,” said Scotto. “Joining the CONNSTEP Board is a meaningful opportunity to support an organization dedicated to helping Connecticut manufacturers grow, innovate, and remain competitive in an evolving global marketplace.”

Scotto has led global sales initiatives for small- and mid-sized organizations, driving revenue growth and profitability while building strategic partnerships with customers worldwide. He has provided strategic project delivery and support with leading aerospace and industrial companies, including Pratt & Whitney, Sikorsky, GE Aviation, Rolls-Royce, Honeywell Aerospace, and Siemens.

In addition to serving on CONNSTEP’s Board, Scotto currently serves on the executive steering committee for Team Hawk with Lockheed Martin. He previously served six years on the board of the Aerospace Component Manufacturers. 

Christian Colon is Vice President of Colonial Coatings, where he helps lead a third-generation, family-owned company specializing in advanced coating solutions that enhance the performance, durability, and reliability of critical aerospace, defense, and power generation components.

As an operations executive with six years of experience in metal finishing, Colon brings expertise in manufacturing operations and plays a key role in guiding company operations, supporting customer relationships, and advancing strategic initiatives that ensure the delivery of high-quality coating solutions for demanding aerospace and industrial applications.

“I am honored to serve as a new member of the CONNSTEP Board of Directors and as a stakeholder for one of the most important organizations in the State of Connecticut,” said Colon. “CONNSTEP has been, and will continue to be, a trusted resource for businesses across our state. As small and medium-sized businesses navigate an increasingly complex landscape, CONNSTEP’s mission is more important than ever. I look forward to supporting the organization’s continued growth and helping ensure it remains an invaluable partner in Connecticut’s manufacturing community.”

Colon is also committed to community engagement through his involvement with the Colon Family Foundation and the Horizons Mentorship Program, where he supports initiatives focused on strengthening communities and creating opportunities for future generations.

“The unique perspectives and industry experience Michael and Christian bring to the Board will strengthen our ability to serve as a trusted advisor to manufacturers, helping them address evolving challenges, grow, innovate, and remain competitive in today’s global marketplace,” said Gutierrez.

Scotto and Colon join CONNSTEP's current Board of Directors: Chair Erin Dumonski, Vice Chair Alfredo Fernandez, Treasurer Shantelle Varrs-Patrick, Secretary Alison Carey Lynch, Craig Cunningham, Nikola Delic, Chris DiPentima, Jeffrey Granath, Brittany Isherwood, Pedro Soto, and Meredith Young.