CONNSTEP Manufacturing Industry Newsletter: Spring 2026

June 16, 2026
CONNSTEP team employees posing together in office

The Manufacturer’s Voice: We’re Listening

We recently launched our Manufacturer’s Voice Survey to better understand the challenges facing Connecticut manufacturers today. Your input will directly shape the programs, resources, and events we deliver—ensuring they reflect what matters most to you and your business.


We encourage you to take a few minutes to share your perspective. Your voice helps us serve you better. 


Building Confidence in Quality: HABCO Strengthens Internal Audits with CONNSTEP

Internal Quality Audits are far more than a checkbox—they are a strategic investment that can reduce risk, strengthen operations, and create a competitive advantage.


In this client spotlight, the team at HABCO Industries in Glastonbury shares the value of having a trusted partner to help navigate the audit process—and the peace of mind that comes with it. Quality is woven into every process, decision, and product—and CONNSTEP helps you uncover and strengthen it.

10 Takeaways from the 2026 CONNSTEP Manufacturing CEO Summit

This past May, CONNSTEP was proud to host our inaugural CEO Summit in partnership with Connecticut Innovations and the CBIA Manufacturing Coalition. Manufacturing leaders and decision-makers stepped away from day-to-day operations to connect, collaborate, and engage in meaningful conversations about the future of manufacturing in Connecticut. 

"Manufacturing CEOs should communicate relentlessly, invest boldly, protect culture fiercely, and embrace AI as a competitive weapon."

It was a productive, insightful, and thought-provoking two days. Thank you to all our attendees, presenters, sponsors—and the dedicated team behind the scenes—who made this event a success. 


To learn more, our partners at CLA (CliftonLarsonAllen) shared their top takeaways from the 2026 CEO Summit.


Improving Flow, Reducing Lead Time, and Increasing Output: A Lean Transformation at Projects Inc.

Founded in 1959, Projects Inc. is a Glastonbury, Connecticut-based manufacturer specializing in precision-machined components for aerospace, industrial, and commercial applications

“Working with CONNSTEP was a turning point for Projects Inc. Their hands-on approach to implementing Lean practices helped us fundamentally improve how we plan, execute, and deliver our work.


Through value stream mapping, standardized processes, and continuous improvement coaching, CONNSTEP empowered our team to eliminate waste, improve flow, and respond faster to customer needs.”


John Rigby

Vice President, Projects, Inc.

25 Years of CONNSTEP: Celebrating the People and Partnerships Powering Connecticut Manufacturing

CONNSTEP celebrated its 25th anniversary with a memorable gala at Hartford's historic Bushnell Performing Arts Center. The evening brought together friends, colleagues, board members, clients, and industry partners to recognize a quarter-century of supporting and strengthening Connecticut's manufacturing community.

“I think what makes me really proud is the people at CONNSTEP. We as a team are committed to helping manufacturers.”


Beatriz Gutierrez

CONNSTEP, President & CEO

Our first 25 years were defined by innovation, partnership, and impact. We are excited to build on that foundation and continue strengthening Connecticut manufacturing for decades to come.


Thank you, Connecticut.

Lean Training Improves Setup Efficiency and Drives Growth at Phoenix Manufacturing

Phoenix Manufacturing facility

“We had a clear need for improvement in our CNC Mill-Turn Department and knew CONNSTEP was the right local partner to help us get there. Their approach helped us quickly uncover inefficiencies and take meaningful steps forward.”



Donna DeVito

Human Resources & EHS Manager


The Manufacturer's Voice

Manufacturing News & Updates

“People are getting really engaged,” CONNSTEP president and CEO Beatriz Gutierrez said on WTNH News
September 14, 2026
“People are getting really engaged,” CONNSTEP president and CEO Beatriz Gutierrez said of the Coolest Thing Made in Connecticut on WTNH News 8’s CTBuzz.
Website screen shot of CMMC 2.0 Help Now Compliance Estimator webpage
By Amanda Beaulieu • August 6, 2026
Learn how CONNSTEP's new CMMC 2.0 Compliance Estimator helps defense manufacturers assess readiness and estimate compliance costs in minutes.
New CONNSTEP board members Michael Scotto and Christian Colon.
By Amanda Beaulieu • August 4, 2026
CONNSTEP announcement about the election of new Board of Directors members Michael Scotto and Christian Colon.
CONNSTEP Anna Mumford Women of Innovation 2026 Finalist
By Amanda Beaulieu • August 3, 2026
“To be recognized alongside so many inspiring women who are advancing STEM and driving innovation across Connecticut is truly meaningful,” said Anna Mumford.
Electric Boat Secures Historic U.S. Navy Contract to Expand Submarine Production
By Amanda Beaulieu • July 30, 2026
General Dynamics Electric Boat has been awarded contract modifications as part of the U.S. Navy's $76.6 billion shipbuilding contract for 14 additional submarines.
U.S. Capitol building with digital circuit background and shield icon, suggesting cybersecurity and government protection
By Amanda Beaulieu • July 14, 2026
"The pause in CMMC Phase II gives companies additional time to prepare, strengthen their cybersecurity posture, and address gaps before future requirements take effect."

CONNSTEP Events & Trainings

Upcoming Industry Events

Manufacturing Resources

CT SMARTE

Connecting manufacturers with advanced technologies to drive efficiency and growth. CT SMARTE links Connecticut’s small and medium-sized manufacturers (SMMs) with technology partners offering practical advanced manufacturing solutions. This free program includes energy assessments, workforce development, technology workshops, trainings and funding opportunities.

  • Data driven modeling
  • Smart Manufacturing (SM)
  • High Performance Computing (HPC)
  • Energy assessments
  • Training and funding resources


Master Digital Thread Manufacturing

Unlock your potential at the cutting-edge Digital Thread Manufacturing Lab.


Grants for Manufacturers

Grant programs designed to help Connecticut manufacturers acquire the skills, tools, and resources needed to keep pace with today’s rapidly evolving manufacturing ecosystem.


Additional Resources


Recent Posts

August 6, 2026
Eljen Corporation is a Windsor, Connecticut-based manufacturer and global leader in innovative onsite wastewater treatment solutions. Founded in 1970 and operating from a 66,000-square-foot manufacturing facility, Eljen is best known for pioneering its Geotextile Sand Filter (GSF) technology. The company develops sustainable products that protect public health and the environment through reliable wastewater treatment solutions for residential and commercial applications. Behind Eljen's innovation is a culture deeply rooted in military service. Led by a team of military veterans, the company emphasizes leadership, integrity, and service—values that extend throughout its 60-person workforce and its customer relationships. Eljen's commitment to recruiting, employing, and supporting veterans has earned national recognition through the U.S. Department of Labor's HIRE Vets Medallion Program.  Beyond product innovation, Eljen is committed to educating and supporting the thousands of installers around the world who use its systems. Through technical expertise and a commitment to customer support, the company helps ensure its products are installed correctly and perform as intended.
August 6, 2026
Founded in 2019, U.T.R. Engineering Works is a Norfolk, Connecticut-based precision engineering and manufacturing company specializing in custom design, precision machining, fabrication, and industrial equipment support. With a hands-on, collaborative approach, the company serves organizations ranging from local family-owned businesses to some of the world's largest corporations, helping manufacturers improve performance, extend equipment life, and maintain operational efficiency. Despite its small size, U.T.R. delivers engineering expertise across industries including marine, defense, aerospace, offshore oil and gas, subsea robotics, and medical devices. Operating from a 1,100-square-foot facility with a team of four employees, the company partners with manufacturers to solve complex engineering challenges, improve production processes, and develop innovative solutions through capabilities that include reverse engineering, equipment modifications, process equipment design, and on-site machinery repair and maintenance.  Committed to customer satisfaction, U.T.R. maintains an on-time delivery rate of more than 98% while emphasizing continuous improvement, exceptional quality, and innovative, cost-effective solutions. The company's focus on quality has translated into exceptional customer performance, with no customer complaints, product returns, or customer-initiated corrective actions, supported by consistently positive customer feedback.
April 29, 2026
Phoenix Manufacturing, Inc., founded in 1989, is a privately held family-operated small business in Enfield, Connecticut, specializing in precision machining for the aerospace industry. What began as a two-person operation in a 2,000-square-foot building has grown into a company with over 100 employees operating out of a 114,000-square-foot, state-of-the-art manufacturing facility. As a contract manufacturer, Phoenix specializes in complex, tight-tolerance components, supported by more than 40 CNC machines and a multi-axis mill/turn line. The company provides end-to-end manufacturing solutions—from engineering consultation through full-scale production—serving commercial aviation, spaceflight, and defense markets for both domestic and global customers, including leading aerospace and defense OEMs. A defining element of Phoenix’s growth has been its strategic investment in advanced manufacturing technology, particularly palletized machining centers. Since 2017, the company has added 11 machining centers integrated with palletized systems, enabling unattended, automated production and significantly expanding machining capacity. This automation journey has positioned Phoenix to better meet increasing customer demand while maximizing machine utilization. Phoenix’s commitment to quality is central to its operations and customer relationships. Managing more than 600 active part numbers, the company strives for 0 parts per million (PPM) defects and 99% on-time delivery (OTD) for major OEM customers. Its quality management system is certified to ISO 9001 and AS9100 Rev D standards, and Phoenix also holds NADCAP certifications in Nonconventional Machining and Nondestructive Testing, reflecting a rigorous, inspection-driven approach to delivering consistent, high-quality results.  Guided by a mission to deliver high-quality, cost-effective products through advanced technology and an uncompromising commitment to quality, Phoenix continues to invest in innovation, automation, and the next generation of manufacturing leadership.
April 28, 2026
Founded in 1959, Projects Inc. is a Glastonbury, Connecticut-based manufacturer specializing in precision-machined components for aerospace, industrial, and commercial applications. With 102 employees, the company operates out of 66,000 square feet of manufacturing and office space and supports customers across a range of industries, including aerospace and power generation. Projects Inc. has deep roots in the aerospace industry, where it has provided high-quality machining services for decades. Since 1996, the company has supplied FAA Parts Manufacturer Approval (PMA) components to the aviation sector. Projects Inc. received FAA Repair Station Certification in 1984. As a maintenance, repair, and overhaul (MRO) provider, Projects supports customers with repair solutions that help keep critical aerospace equipment operating safely and efficiently. Its customer base includes major aerospace companies such as Sikorsky, Pratt & Whitney, and GE Aerospace, along with airlines including United, Delta, American, and Lufthansa. Projects Inc. is Federal Aviation Administration (FAA), European Union Aviation Safety Agency (EASA), and UK Civil Aviation Authority (CAA) – approved. The company is also AS9100D and ISO 9001: 2015-certified, reflecting its commitment to quality, consistency, and industry standards. With capabilities that include prototyping, CNC machining, EDM, laser cutting, and grinding, Projects Inc. offers a broad range of precision manufacturing services supported by advanced in-house equipment and technical expertise. Today, Projects Inc. is recognized as an experienced supplier of high-quality components, with a long-standing focus on quality, reliability, and customer service.
Penn Globe logo over a room with people, possibly a conference.
February 11, 2026
Learn how Penn Globe partnered with CONNSTEP to invest in employee training, strengthen skills, and support business growth and competitiveness.
Logo of Specialty Cable Corporation (SCC) in a warehouse setting.
February 10, 2026
See how Specialty Cable Manufacturers partnered with CONNSTEP to strengthen quality systems and successfully achieve AS9100 recertification.
People in a factory setting, with the Forum Contract Manufacturing logo in the foreground.
February 9, 2026
Learn how Forum Plastics partnered with CONNSTEP to invest in supervisory training, strengthen leadership skills, and support long-term growth.
Logo of the letter
February 8, 2026
See how a Connecticut printing company partnered with CONNSTEP to improve efficiency, reduce waste, and advance environmental sustainability.
Beekley Medical logo with text
February 7, 2026
Learn how a medical products manufacturer partnered with CONNSTEP to strengthen quality systems and achieve successful recertification.
Pursuit Aerospace logo over a blurred medical equipment background. The logo is white text on a black rectangular box.
February 6, 2026
See how an aerospace manufacturer partnered with CONNSTEP to conduct an internal quality audit and get back on track to compliance.
Show More