CONNSTEP Manufacturing Industry Newsletter: Summer 2026

September 14, 2026
CONNSTEP President & CEO Beatriz Gutierrez with WTNH: Coolest Thing Made in Connecticut

The championship for the 2026 Coolest Thing Made in Connecticut competition has arrived. The final matchup is The Lee Company’s Satellite Propellant Isolation Valve versus Waterbury Button Company’s Santa Claus Brass Button.


“People are getting really engaged,” CONNSTEP president and CEO Beatriz Gutierrez said on WTNH News 8’s CTBuzz with Natasha Lubczenko. “I think it gives us a lot of pride, particularly because it showcases our ingenuity and creativity.”


Gutierrez said so many companies are taking to social media to call their employees and their families to participate in the competition, which helps remind residents of the importance of manufacturing in Connecticut. “This is our call to fame,” Gutierrez said.

Coolest Thing Made in Connecticut contest down to two

2026 Manufacturing Celebration of Innovation

Showcasing the 2026 Coolest Thing Made in Connecticut Competition!


Join the ribbon-cutting ceremony for the brand new 2026 Coolest Thing Made in Connecticut exhibit at the Manufacturing Celebration of Innovation on November 5! Celebrate this year's Coolest Thing Made in Connecticut winner and all of the amazing products and companies included in this year's competition.


Every certification has a story behind it. See how Connecticut sheet metal manufacturer Chapco, Inc. partnered with CONNSTEP to achieve ISO 9001:2015 certification ahead of schedule, strengthening its quality management system and positioning the company for continued growth.

CONNSTEP’s Anna Mumford Named 2026 Women of Innovation Finalist by Connecticut Technology Council

"I am honored to be named a Women of Innovation finalist for the second time,” Anna Mumford, Cybersecurity Consultant at CONNSTEP. “To be recognized alongside so many inspiring women who are advancing STEM and driving innovation across Connecticut is truly meaningful. Cybersecurity is more than my profession, it's a passion.”


The Connecticut Technology Council has announced the 47 finalists for its 21st annual Women of Innovation Awards, recognizing women across the state who are advancing science, technology, engineering, and mathematics through leadership, innovation, and mentorship.


From In-Person Training to Global Reach: Eljen Transforms Installer Certification with CONNSTEP

"There are many organizations that could execute on these projects, but what I appreciate is the way CONNSTEP handles them from start to finish.


Their commitment to Connecticut's manufacturing and business communities is evident in the support they provide. As a small, family-owned manufacturer, having CONNSTEP as a resource is like having an AI model for your business—it helps you see what's possible and provides the guidance to make that vision a reality."


James King

President, Eljen Corporation

CONNSTEP welcomes new board members, Michael Scotto (left) and Christian Colon (right).

CONNSTEP, Connecticut's leading manufacturing solutions provider, announces the election of two new members to its Board of Directors: Michael Scotto (left) and Christian Colon (right).


“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.”


UTR Engineering Works

“U.T.R. could not be the U.T.R. that it is today without the help from CONNSTEP in achieving our AS9100 certification.”


Raffaele Prisco

Owner, U.T.R. Engineering Works LTD.


The Manufacturer's Voice

Manufacturing News & Updates

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."
Logos of State of Connecticut Governor's office and RAISE US
By Amanda Beaulieu June 29, 2026
“We need to ensure that Connecticut workers and Connecticut jobs benefit from these breakthroughs and do not get left behind,” said Governor Ned Lamont.

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


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.


Master Digital Thread Manufacturing

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


The MFG Skills Hub

In a world where production schedules wait for no one, we know that finding time for development can be a challenge. The MFG Skills Hub was built to meet manufacturers exactly where they are—on the shop floor, in the front office, and everywhere in between.


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.
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