HARTFORD, CT (March 23, 2026) — CONNSTEP proudly celebrates President and CEO Beatriz N. Gutierrez on being named one of the Hartford Business Journal’s
2026 Women in Business honorees.
This prestigious recognition celebrates Connecticut’s most accomplished women leaders—executives and entrepreneurs from diverse backgrounds and industries who are making a meaningful impact within their organizations and communities. Now in its 24th year, the Women in Business Awards highlight those whose leadership leaves a lasting imprint on both business and the next generation of leaders.
Beatriz has served as President and CEO of CONNSTEP since 2020, guiding the organization’s strategic direction as Connecticut’s official Manufacturing Extension Partnership (MEP) center within the NIST network. Under her leadership, CONNSTEP has strengthened its role as a trusted partner to small and medium-sized manufacturers, delivering solutions that drive operational excellence, workforce development, and digital transformation.
“I’m deeply honored to be recognized as one of Hartford Business Journal’s 2026 Women in Business honorees,” said Gutierrez. “This recognition isn’t just about me—it reflects the incredible teams, partners, and manufacturers I’ve had the privilege to work alongside at CONNSTEP. Every day, I’m inspired by the innovation, dedication, and collaboration that drives Connecticut’s manufacturing community forward, and I’m proud to play a role in supporting it.”
Beatriz has elevated CONNSTEP into a catalyst for meaningful impact across the state. Under her leadership, the organization has helped manufacturers innovate, grow, and strengthen their operations, reinforcing CONNSTEP’s role as a trusted partner in advancing Connecticut’s manufacturing sector.
Beatriz is widely respected for her leadership style—one that balances strategic vision with empathy, accountability, and a deep commitment to people, both within the CONNSTEP team and across the manufacturing community it serves.
“It is truly a privilege to lead the CONNSTEP team in our mission to help small and medium-sized manufacturers grow, compete, and succeed,” Gutierrez added. “Our work is about more than business outcomes—it’s about strengthening communities, creating opportunities, and ensuring the long-term vitality of Connecticut’s manufacturing economy.”
Her impact extends beyond CONNSTEP through active community leadership, including service on several boards focused on economic development, education, and cultural advancement. Beatriz also continues to champion greater inclusion within manufacturing, helping to open doors for future generations of leaders.
The 2026 Women in Business honorees will be celebrated at an
awards event on Wednesday, April 29, 2026. A digital supplement featuring Beatriz and the full list of this year’s honorees is available on the
Hartford Business Journal website.
About CONNSTEP, Inc.
CONNSTEP is a 501(c)(3) nonprofit organization located in Hartford, CT. CONNSTEP is Connecticut’s leading manufacturing solutions provider, dedicated to helping manufacturers achieve their goals and strengthen the state’s economy. Serving as a trusted advisor and resource, CONNSTEP delivers guidance and technical expertise required to drive growth, strengthen compliance, and sustain long-term competitiveness in a dynamic, evolving market.
About Hartford Business Journal
Hartford Business Journal is Connecticut’s leading source for business news, events and recognition programs, serving as a vital resource for the state’s business community.
