CONNSTEP President and CEO Named 2026 Hartford Business Journal Women In Business Honoree

Connecticut Smart Manufacturing Assessment & Access to Reduce Technology Emissions (CT SMARTE) is a free pilot program designed to accelerate the adoption of Smart Manufacturing and High-Performance Computing technologies for CT small and mid-sized manufacturers to reduce their energy consumption and advance manufacturing.

The application is quick and free to complete. Key benefits: energy savings, smart manufacturing access support, HPC-based modeling, workforce training, and access to customized tools.

2025 Coolest Thing Made in Connecticut Challenge

Each year, dozens of manufacturing companies present engineering schools in Connecticut universities with design challenges they encounter in their business. Students research and analyze the problem, and typically end up with a solution—a design, a model, a working prototype.

Ideally, it’s a win-win for the company and the students: the company has their problem solved and students get hands-on experience problem solving.

CONNSTEP will coordinate the connection between the manufacturer and the university, and assist the process as needed.

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.

CONNSTEP’s Downloads & Materials
Discover key resources and information to help your organization overcome challenges and meet its goals to advance your business growth, enhance your manufacturing capabilities, and sustain your competitiveness in the industry.

Additional Resources

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CONNSTEP Monthly Newsletter

CONNSTEP Newsletter | August 2025

Sun, 17 Aug 2025 19:34:11 GMT

Voting begins August 21st!

The Coolest Thing Made in Connecticut is back!

After Electric Boat’s Virginia-Class submarine won the inaugural challenge last year, 16 different products are vying to be crowned the coolest thing made in Connecticut.

The 2025 Coolest Thing Made in Connecticut—led by the CBIA Foundation — celebrates the successes of the state’s vital manufacturing industry and highlights the wide range of products produced by our world-class, highly skilled workforce.

View here: https://www.cbia.com/news/manufacturing/coolest-thing-made-in-connecticut-2025

Building from Within: Forum Plastics’ Investment in Supervisory Training

Appreciating the importance of cultivating and retaining a skilled workforce, Forum Plastics strategically invests in its internal talent by broadening their knowledge base and further developing their skills.

They understand the pivotal role of effective managers in driving organizational value and significantly boosting team performance.

Learn More: https://www.connstep.org/case-study/building-from-within-forum-plastics-investment-in-supervisory-training/

Recent Blogs

CONNSTEP is pleased to announce the election of three new members to its board of directors, whose diverse insights will help further the organization’s mission as a trusted advisor and resource to Connecticut’s small and medium-sized manufacturers…..

Read this blog: https://www.connstep.org/news-media/news/connstep-welcomes-new-board-members/

CONNSTEP Announces the Election of New Board Members

The Urgent Reality of Cyber Threats and Manufacturing

Cyber threats are a constant and evolving danger for businesses of all sizes.

The manufacturing industry, particularly smaller manufacturers with valuable data and often limited defenses, is the number one target for cyberattacks across all sectors .

A critical, often unseen, risk is that cyber attackers may already be lurking within company systems, waiting for the opportune moment to strike.

This pervasive threat raises a crucial question for every business leader: Is your organization truly protected?….

Read this blog: https://www.connstep.org/news-media/news/the-urgent-reality-of-cyber-threats-and-manufacturing/

Upcoming Events

Training

Lean for Manufacturers

A one-day comprehensive introduction to core Lean principles and practices.

Date: Thursday, September 18

Time: 8:30 am-3:30pm

Location: Cromwell

Training

Supervisor Bootcamp

An immersive workshop on becoming an effective and successful supervisor.

Date: Fridays, September 19-October 31

Time: 8 am-12 noon

Location: MASC, Waterbury

Training

Cybersecurity Maturity Model Certification 2.0 (CMMC) Bootcamp

An in-depth dive into mastering CMMC requirements implementation.

Date: Thursdays, October 2-October 30

Time: 8:30 am-12 noon

Location: Windsor

Training

Supply Chain Champion Program

A two-day program that provides a comprehensive overview of key strategies and tools.

Date: Friday, November 7 & 14

Time: 8 am-4 pm

Location: Mystic

More Upcoming Events

Greater New Haven Chamber of Commerce: Annual Policy Summit | Date: 8/27 Time: 3 pm-6 pm
SMARTE Series: Autonomous Mobile Robots in Manufacturing | Date: 9/24 Time: 1 pm-3 pm
Connecticut Manufacturing Innovation Forum | Date: 9/11 Time: 7:30 am-3:30 pm
WiM Connecticut | CONNverge 2025 | Date: 9/12 Time: 11:30 am-4 pm
Made in Connecticut: 2025 Manufacturing Summit | Date: 10/2 Time: 8:30 am-2:45 pm
ACM’s Aerospace Alley® Tradeshow | Date: 10/30 Time: 1 pm-5 pm

Manufacturing News

Manufacturing Resources

The application is quick and free to complete. Key benefits: energy savings, smart manufacturing access support, HPC-based modeling, workforce training, and access to customized tools.

Learn more about CONNSTEP’s cybersecurity services.

Ideally, it’s a win-win for the company and the students: the company has their problem solved and students get hands-on experience problem solving.

CONNSTEP will coordinate the connection between the manufacturer and the university, and assist the process as needed.

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

Additional Resources

Join the Newsletter Mailing List

Sign-up for our monthly newsletter below.

CONNSTEP Monthly Newsletter

CONNSTEP Announces the Election of New Board Members

Tue, 15 Jul 2025 19:46:48 GMT

(Hartford, CT, July 16, 2025) – CONNSTEP, Connecticut’s leading manufacturing consulting firm, is pleased to announce the election of three new members to its board of directors, whose diverse insights will help further the organization’s mission as a trusted advisor and resource to Connecticut’s small and medium-sized manufacturers.

Meredith Young , Vice President, Commercial Banker at JP Morgan Chase , brings robust financial leadership expertise to the board.

Through various roles within the banking industry, she has strategically guided numerous small and mid-sized businesses on lending relationships, growth financing, and risk assessment.

Meredith’s dedication to fostering innovation in manufacturing is underscored by her active membership in Women in Manufacturing, making her an invaluable asset to CONNSTEP’s mission.

Nikola Delic joins the board as President & CEO of New England Airfoil Products .

With more than 15 years in senior leadership roles within the aerospace industry, including tenures at Arrowhead Products and Howmet Aerospace, Nik brings extensive experience in business development, program management, and operational improvement across commercial, defense, industrial, and space sectors.

His proven track record of driving significant revenue growth and organizational transformation at NEAP, along with his deep understanding of the manufacturing landscape, will significantly benefit CONNSTEP’s strategic initiatives.

Craig Cunningham is a human resources consultant with over two and a half decades of HR leadership and management experience.

Most recently with Thayer Mahan, Inc., Craig has dedicated his career to the manufacturing, consumer products, and pharmaceutical sectors.

He has successfully navigated human resource challenges within various company structures, including entrepreneurial ventures, private equity-owned firms, and publicly traded enterprises.

With his expertise in talent management, compliance, and strategic advising, Craig’s addition to the board will be instrumental in fostering business growth.

“As CONNSTEP continues to support the growth and evolution of Connecticut manufacturers, we are thrilled to have Meredith, Nik, and Craig join our Board of Directors,” said Beatriz N. Gutierrez, CONNSTEP President & CEO.

“Their diverse and powerful backgrounds in financial guidance, advanced manufacturing leadership, and strategic HR will be pivotal in shaping our future initiatives and driving even greater impact for our state’s vital manufacturing community.”

“The board is excited to welcome our newest members,” said Erin Dumonski , board chair and Production Chief – Military Development Programs at Pratt & Whitney.

“We look forward to their expertise in championing CONNSTEP’s mission and vision as trusted advisors to Connecticut manufacturers.”

Along with Erin Dumonski, Meredith, Nic, and Craig join current board members, Vice Chair Alfredo Fernandez, Treasurer Shantelle Varrs-Patrick, Secretary Anna McGovern, Alison Carey-Lynch, Chris DiPentima, Jeffrey Granath, Brittany Isherwood, Christoper Levesque, and Pedro Soto .

About CONNSTEP :  For 25 years, our client-focused mission has been centered on identifying growth opportunities, improving productivity, and ensuring the success of our clients in today’s evolving manufacturing landscape.

Our multi-disciplinary team of experts takes a holistic approach by leveraging industry knowledge to offer tailored services for success. CONNSTEP’s technical expertise and workforce strategies combine to generate bottom-line improvements and produce innovative, results-driven growth for your organization.

View Our Board of Directors

CONNSTEP'S Board of Directors

The Urgent Reality of Cyber Threats and Manufacturing

Tue, 24 Jun 2025 20:00:35 GMT

Cyber threats are a constant and evolving danger for businesses of all sizes.

The manufacturing industry, particularly smaller manufacturers with valuable data and often limited defenses, is the number one target for cyberattacks across all sectors .

As CONNSTEP Cybersecurity Consultant Anna Mumford explains, attackers actively seek the weakest links to infiltrate an organization’s plans and systems.

They commonly exploit vulnerabilities through methods like malware, phishing emails, and unsecured passwords.

A critical, often unseen, risk is that cyber attackers may already be lurking within company systems, waiting for the opportune moment to strike.

This pervasive threat raises a crucial question for every business leader: Is your organization truly protected?

“When someone steals $100,000 from you, you…don’t forget."

Mumford is shedding light on this critical threat. “Breaches target important information like your financial data, intellectual property, contractual information, or critical manufacturing assets,” she warns.

Having helped more than 100 manufacturers implement cybersecurity practices, she emphasizes that companies failing to proactively assess vulnerabilities and implement a comprehensive cybersecurity strategy are exposing themselves to significant risk.

This stark warning is powerfully illustrated by CBIA President & CEO Chris DiPentima, who shares a first-hand account of a cyberattack on Pegasus Manufacturing, an aerospace and defense components company he previously led.

“We thought we were…pretty well protected as far as cybersecurity attacks, and our IT infrastructure, and honestly, all of our compliance systems,” DiPentima recalls.

Despite believing their systems were secure, Pegasus suffered a breach where a hacker remained undetected for months, ultimately stealing a six-figure sum from the company’s bank account.

This was all initiated by a seemingly innocuous system update.

“When we found out that it happened, you know, I certainly took it personally as not only the leader of the organization, but as an integral part of the supply chain.”

DiPentima’s candid recount underscores the insidious nature of modern cyber threats and the devastating financial and operational consequences, even for organizations with perceived protections.

CONNSTEP stands ready to help manufacturers build resilient cyber defenses and stay ahead of bad actors.

They ensure manufacturers meet federal cybersecurity compliance standards for contract requirements, a crucial step for those in the DoD supply chain.

Additionally, CBIA offers its members’ employees identity theft protection powered by Defend-id .

This service monitors their digital presence and provides fully managed recovery services if an employee’s identity is compromised.

This benefit helps protect employees from the time and frustration of identity theft, while also safeguarding company data from potential vulnerabilities on compromised devices.

The time to ensure your organization is thoroughly protected, using a holistic approach to cybersecurity, is now.

Don’t wait until it’s too late.

Protect & Comply with Ever-Changing Requirements.

Let CONNSTEP’s cybersecurity consultants show you how to protect your company information and assets by enlisting cybersecurity protocols that meet required standards and minimize threats to your business.

Cybersecurity Maturity Model Certification (CMMC) 2.0

We work with you to establish a System Security Plan and Plan of Action with Milestones as a demonstration of your compliance.

We conduct an executive overview of the steps and processes required to achieve compliance over time and other related federal cyber regulations.

DFARS Compliance & NIST SP 800-171

CT Post | CONNSTEP Helps CT Manufacturers Create Virtual Network of Give and Take through CONNEX

Wed, 11 Jun 2025 20:09:57 GMT

Want to Learn More?

We’re ready to help you and your business. Please tell us how we can assist you or if you would like more information about CONNEX Connecticut.

CONNEX Connecticut

CONNEX Connecticut is an online platform that connects all U.S. manufacturers and suppliers with a single, accurate, and searchable supply-chain solution.

CONNEX Connecticut

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CONNSTEP Newsletter | June 2025

Mon, 02 Jun 2025 20:25:36 GMT

Connecticut’s manufacturers each face their own set of hurdles. For Syn-Mar Products in Ellington, the challenge was clear: increase the output of its grout-free shower wall systems and vanity tops while avoiding costly expansion.

View here: https://www.connstep.org/resources/client-spotlight/

More Output, Same Footprint: Syn-Mar’s Lean Success

Printing Company Drives Environmental Sustainability Through Efficiency

A leader in sustainable printing, Allied Printing is ISO 14001:2015 certified and recognized by People’s Action for Clean Energy for its Going Green initiative. The company reduces its environmental impact and improves efficiency through eco-friendly practices, including extensive recycling, a large solar array, energy-efficient lighting, an on-site fuel cell that contributes to a near-zero carbon footprint, and the exclusive use of vegetable-and soy-based inks.

Learn More: https://www.connstep.org/case-study/printing-company-drives-environmental-sustainability-through-efficiency/

Recent Blogs

Connecticut Launches Grant Program to Help Manufacturers Tackle Federal Cybersecurity Compliance

The increasing cyber threats facing manufacturers in today’s digital world underscore the critical, yet often costly and complex task of achieving cybersecurity compliance. This is particularly true for defense industry suppliers required to obtain Cybersecurity Maturity Model Certification (CMMC).

Read this blog: https://www.connstep.org/news-media/news/connecticut-launches-grant-program-to-help-manufacturers-tackle-federal-cybersecurity-compliance/

Upcoming Events

Online Event
2025 CT Supplier Connection Direct Supplier Summit & MatchMaker
Date: Tuesday, June 11 & 12
Location: Online

Webinar Series
CT SMARTE
Date: Thursday, June 12
Time: 11 am-12 noon
Location: Online

impaCT Workshop
The Lean Turnaround presented by Art Byrne
Date: Wednesday, June 18
Time: 8 am-11:30 am
Location: Glastonbury

impaCT Workshop
New Haven | Cyber Threat Protection: Practical Defenses for Business
Date: Tuesday, June 24
Time: 8:30 am-11:00 am
Location: Omni New Haven Hotel at Yale

impaCT Workshop
Bristol | Cyber Threat Protection: Practical Defenses for Business
Date: Friday, June 27
Time: 8:30 am-11:00 am
Location: DoubleTree by Hilton Hotel

Conference
Connecticut Manufacturing Innovation Forum
Date: Thursday, September 11
Time: 7:30 am-3:30 pm
Location: Connecticut Convention Center

More Upcoming Events

CT Manufacturing Careers Roadshow | May-October
HR Hotline Live: Hiring Practices | June 4
National Civics Bee Connecticut State Finals | June 7
Building a High Performance Team: CBIA Leadership Essentials | June 10
The Diplomat + Luminary Award 2025 | June 10
ManufactureCT Annual Golf Outing | June 10
2025 Energy & Environment Conference | June 11
The 3rd Annual Cybersecurity Summit | June 17
2025 NESMA Golf Outing | August 25

Manufacturing News

Manufacturing Resources

The application is quick and free to complete. Key benefits: energy savings, smart manufacturing access support, HPC-based modeling, workforce training, and access to customized tools.

Ideally, it’s a win-win for the company and the students: the company has their problem solved and students get hands-on experience problem solving.

CONNSTEP will coordinate the connection between the manufacturer and the university, and assist the process as needed.

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

Additional Resources

Join the Newsletter Mailing List

Sign-up for our monthly newsletter below.

CONNSTEP Monthly Newsletter

Powering Up Productivity: CONNSTEP’s New Partnership with Control Station

Sun, 18 May 2025 20:35:33 GMT

CONNSTEP, Connecticut’s leading manufacturing consulting firm, is thrilled to announce Control Station as one of its newest technology partners .

For over three decades, Control Station has been an innovator in process diagnostic and optimization solutions, empowering manufacturers worldwide to improve production efficiency, reduce variability, and enhance profitability through the application of advanced analytics and control technologies.

Headquartered in Manchester, Connecticut, Control Station specializes in helping companies in the process industries to achieve peak performance by leveraging their innovative software and services. Their solutions provide manufacturers with the tools to proactively identify, isolate and correct a wide range of performance issues.

Control Station’s offerings include award-winning controller modeling and optimization tools, monitoring and diagnostic solutions, and advanced analytics offerings. Their expertise spans a wide range of industries, helping manufacturers to achieve greater stability, consistency, and overall controller effectiveness.

“Control Station is excited to partner with CONNSTEP and to advance both growth and sustainability initiatives within the State of Connecticut’s manufacturing community,” said Dennis Nash, President of Control Station.

“As a provider of innovative process analytics and optimization solutions, Control Station has much to gain from CONNESTEP’s industry insights and consultative expertise particularly as we explore new opportunities for product and market expansion.”

Control Station’s commitment to driving operational excellence aligns perfectly with CONNSTEP’s mission to support and strengthen Connecticut’s manufacturing sector. Their expertise in process optimization will be a valuable asset to manufacturers looking to enhance their competitiveness and achieve sustainable growth.

Interested in CONNSTEP’s Technology Partners or would like to become one? Visit: connstep.org/resources/technology-partners

Technology Partners

Check out CONNSTEP's powerful team of Technology Partners. Contact us to connect with them!

About CONNSTEP

Learn how CONNSTEP empowers Connecticut manufacturers with expert consulting, innovative solutions, and industry-leading support.

In November 2024, our Technology Partners joined us at our monthly webinar series to introduce themselves - check it out on YouTube!

Meet Our Technology Partners Webinar

HBJ Business Profiles 2025 CONNSTEP

Tue, 06 May 2025 20:40:28 GMT

More Output, Same Footprint: Syn-Mar’s Lean Success

Mon, 05 May 2025 20:43:19 GMT

CONNSTEP’s Lean 101 training provided the solution, equipping Syn-Mar with essential tools to achieve its efficiency goals and fostering a stronger, more empathetic team, paving the way for continued growth. Discover Syn-Mar’s Lean 101 success story.

Connecticut Launches Grant Program to Help Manufacturers Tackle Federal Cybersecurity Compliance

Sun, 04 May 2025 20:53:03 GMT

Recognizing this, the Connecticut Office of Manufacturing created the Cybersecurity Adoption Program (CAP), a grant program designed to assist manufacturers seeking CMMC compliance.

CAP is funded by the Connecticut Department of Economic and Community Development’s Manufacturing Innovation Fund and administered by the Connecticut Center for Advanced Technology.

“The Connecticut Office of Manufacturing is leaning in and listening to our manufacturing customers,” said Paul S. Lavoie, CT Chief Manufacturing Officer.

Eligible companies can apply for a grant up to $35,000 to assist with cybersecurity assessments and CMMC adoption and will be required to pay half the cost.

Up to $10,000 can be used for assessments with the balance allocated to remediation such as training programs and CMMC Level 1 & 2 compliance implementation, performed by a qualified business consultant.

Proposed projects must have a minimum value of $5,000.

“We see a need for this funding especially in small and medium-sized organizations that struggle with becoming compliant,” said Anna Mumford, CONNSTEP Cybersecurity Consultant.

With a focus on accessibility and impactful results, CAP is designed to support manufacturers that currently participate in the Department of Defense supply chain, or those who wish to do so in the future.

“It is expensive and timely as defense industry suppliers are required to achieve CMMC,” said Lavoie.

Without CMMC compliance, companies cannot obtain DoD contracts at any tier of the DoD supply chain.

Applications for the Cybersecurity Adoption Program are now open. Interested manufacturers can learn more about eligibility criteria and the application process by visiting the official program page: https://grants.ccat.us/s/funding-program/a1uDn000000G2hGIAS/cybersecurity-adoption-progrFam-cap

In March 2026, CONNSTEP is hosting a CMMC Bootcamp designed to give participants the knowledge and tools to prepare for CMMC full compliance and certification readiness.

The $5,000 project minimum allows CAP funds to cover CMMC Bootcamp attendance and additional one-on-one support from CONNSTEP.

“This grant is a tremendous help in achieving compliance with those who need to meet the DoD’s cybersecurity requirements,” said Mumford.

CONNSTEP Newsletter | April 2025

Sun, 27 Apr 2025 21:05:20 GMT

“As a medical device manufacturer, it is imperative that we have qualified professionals conducting our internal audits to this stringent ISO 13485 standard, as this audit has a direct impact on the success of our recertification. Our consultant is very knowledgeable with a wealth of experience who we see as an important partner in our success. CONNSTEP has been a valuable resource to Beekley over the years and has provided great service and support to ensure we continue to achieve our goals.”

– Kate Chase, Director of Quality and Regulatory, Beekley Corporation

Commitment to World-Class Service Leads to Successful Recertification for Medical Products Manufacturer

Lean Thinking: CONNSTEP Webinar Series

On April 17, CONNSTEP’s Continuous Improvement Consultant, Matin Karbassioon, presented on Lean Thinking, and what it means for your business. Discover the five Lean principles and how to properly implement them. An educational (and unexpectedly fun) webinar you don’t want to miss!

Watch the webinar recording on YouTube: https://connstep.info/LeanThinkingWebinar

Recent Blogs

Connecticut Manufacturers Connect with NASA and Aerospace Prime Contractors at University of Hartford Event

On Thursday, April 3, over 100 Connecticut manufacturers and processors had the unique opportunity at the University of Hartford to engage directly with NASA and its prime contractors about propelling their pathway into the aerospace supply chain. “We are thrilled to welcome NASA back to Connecticut,” said Melissa Grosso , Director of U.S. Commercial Service, Connecticut Office.

CONNSTEP Joins Connecticut in Honoring UConn Women’s 2025 NCAA Basketball Title

It’s a sight University of Connecticut basketball fans have come to expect: an April championship parade and rally in downtown Hartford. For the third straight year, fans of all ages cheered on another Husky national title, further cementing UConn’s nickname: The Basketball Capital of the World.

Upcoming Training & Events

Educational Seminar
Tariffs & Trade Seminar
Date: Thursday, May 1
Time: 3-5 pm
Location: Hartford

impaCT Workshop
CMMC Informational Breakfast with Anna Mumford
Date: Wednesday, May 7
Time: 8 am-10:30 am
Location: Farmington or Online – Hybrid

Webinar Series
CMMC Compliance: What You Need to Know
Date: Thursday, May 8
Time: 11 am-12 noon
Location: Online

Training | Workshops
Supervisor Bootcamp – Late Spring
Date: Fridays, May 9-June 27
Time: 8 am-12 noon
Location: New London

Training | Workshops
Cybersecurity Maturity Model Certification (CMMC) Bootcamp
Date: Tuesdays & Wednesdays, May 13-May 27
Time: 8:30 am-12:00 pm
Location: Virtual

Manufacturing Meetup | Networking
Manufacturing Meetup: Blooms & Brews
Date: Tuesday, May 13
Time: 4:30-6:30 pm
Location: Danbury

impaCT Workshop
The Lean Progression presented by Bill Greider
Date: Wednesday, May 14
Time: 8 am-12 noon
Location: Waterbury

Webinar Series
CT SMARTE
Date: Thursday, June 12
Time: 11 am-12 noon
Location: Online

impaCT Workshop
The Lean Turnaround presented by Art Byrne
Date: Wednesday, June 18
Time: 8 am-11:30 am
Location: Glastonbury

More Upcoming Events

Small Business Happy Hour 2025 | May 7 | 4-6 pm
National Small Business Week SBA Awards & Resource Expo | May 8 | 2-5:45 pm
Connecticut Business Day 2025 | May 13 | 9 am-12 pm
Powering Production: Financial Resources for Manufacturers | May 20 | 9-11 am
2025 Safety & Health Conference | May 21 | 8:30 am-3:00 pm
Manufacturing ConneCTion Fair & College Career/Internship Fair | May 15 | 8 am-2:30 pm
CT Manufacturing Careers Roadshow | May-October

Manufacturing News

ManufactureCT Scholarship Program 2025:

Deadline for application is April 30, 2025. ManufactureCT believes in the power of manufacturing to transform lives and pave the way towards a brighter future in manufacturing. Get in touch with them and apply for one of their scholarship opportunities.

If you know a graduating high school senior who’s passionate about manufacturing – whether they’re planning to continue their education or enter the workforce – this is a fantastic opportunity.

Learn more: https://manufacturect.org/scholarships/

Manufacturing Resources

The application is quick and free to complete. Key benefits: energy savings, smart manufacturing access support, HPC-based modeling, workforce training, and access to customized tools.

Ideally, it’s a win-win for the company and the students: the company has their problem solved and students get hands-on experience problem solving.

CONNSTEP will coordinate the connection between the manufacturer and the university, and assist the process as needed.

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

Additional Resources

Join the Newsletter Mailing List

Sign-up for our monthly newsletter below.

CONNSTEP Monthly Newsletter

CONNSTEP Joins Connecticut in Honoring UConn Women’s 2025 NCAA Basketball Title

Wed, 16 Apr 2025 21:18:00 GMT

It’s a sight University of Connecticut basketball fans have come to expect: an April championship parade and rally in downtown Hartford.

For the third straight year, fans of all ages cheered on another Husky national title, further cementing UConn’s nickname: The Basketball Capital of the World.

After the UConn Men’s basketball team won back-to-back NCAA titles in 2023 and 2024, 2025 was all about the women.

An estimated 20,000 fans packed Trinity, Jewell, and Trumbull streets, all eager to see the UConn Women’s team, led by superstar Paige Bueckers, as they celebrated their dominant NCAA Tournament performance.

Parade participants included the Hartford Police Department Color Guard, UConn Fire Department, Hartford Business Improvement District, Magic Soul Drumline, and the Connecticut Army National Guard.

The Huskies, decked out in their championship gear, rounded out the procession, waving to fans from atop an open-air double-decker bus, throwing t-shirts and candy to the cheering crowd.

UConn’s 2025 title marks the 12th championship for Hall of Fame coach Geno Auriemma, who has now won titles in four different decades.

Addressing the crowds chanting “Geno, Geno” at the rally in front of the XL Center following the parade, Auriemma thanked the thousands I attendance, telling them, “This is pretty incredible, it’s pretty special…but we already knew that because you guys are special fans and you’re special supporters.”

Azi Fudd, named Most Outstanding Player of the NCAA tournament, also spoke to fans, calling the championship a “storybook ending.”

Bueckers expressed thanks for the support the team has received from not only Connecticut, but around the world, saying, “It’s meant everything to all of us to play here, to represent this program, to represent you guys, the state of Connecticut, and we love you all, thank you.”

The Huskies’ parade and rally were organized through a partnership between the City of Hartford, the State of Connecticut, and the Hartford Business Improvement District.

According to Governor Ned Lamont, no city or state funding was used to pay for the event, including costs for police, fire, and ambulance services; public works and sanitation; staging and production; permits and insurance; and labor hours for event set-up, management, and take-down. Many businesses and organizations jumped in to sponsor the event, and CONNSTEP was proud to be one of them.

“We are very appreciative of the many businesses and organizations whose sponsorship is covering the costs of this victory parade and rally,” said Governor Lamont.

“Their donations are making this event possible, and I thank all of them for helping to honor the 2025 UConn women’s basketball national championship team.”

The UConn, CONNSTEP connection goes back 31 years to 1994 (just one year before the UConn Women went undefeated and won their first NCAA basketball title).

What is now CONNSTEP, began at UConn as the State Technology Extension Program (STEP).

Today, the University and CONNSTEP work closely on projects like CT SMARTE , connecting Connecticut’s small and medium-sized manufacturers with advanced technologies to drive efficiency and growth.

UConn and CONNSTEP are both integral parts of the entrepreneurial ecosystem , helping bring manufacturing ideas to life from ideation through to marketing.

UConn is also one of the universities involved in Capstone Projects . Connecticut manufacturers annually present university engineering students with real-world design challenges, fostering collaborative problem-solving and providing students with practical experience. CONNSTEP facilitates the connections between the universities and the manufacturers.

In addition to CONNSTEP, many other businesses and organizations sponsored the parade and rally:

Coca-Cola
Jordan’s Furniture
Hartford HealthCare
LAZ Parking
Mohegan Sun
Nassau Financial Group
PeoplesBank
Travelers
Bear’s Smokehouse Barbecue
CT Realtors
UConn Health
Connecticut Army National Guard
Delta Dental of CT
Sam’s Food Stores
Two Roads Brewing
Verogy
WFSB

The following businesses provided substantial in-kind services:

C2 Vehicles
DATTCO
Manafort Brothers
Mitchell Auto Group
Peter Pan Bus Lines
Powerstation Events
XL Center

Congratulations to the Huskies on a tremendous season!

Connecticut Manufacturers Connect with NASA and Aerospace Prime Contractors at University of Hartford Event

Thu, 03 Apr 2025 21:27:01 GMT

“We are thrilled to welcome NASA back to Connecticut,” said Melissa Grosso , Director of U.S. Commercial Service, Connecticut Office.

“This procurement seminar is a vital opportunity for Connecticut manufacturers to understand both the intricacies of space-related contracts and how they can contribute to the supply chain.”

“NASA, I’m proud you’re here to say ‘hi’ to some of the best folks we have in aerospace and advanced engineering. We want to be part of Team NASA and everything that means,” said Governor Ned Lamont , speaking at the event.

Doing Business with NASA and Their Primes was presented by CONNSTEP , Aerospace Component Manufacturers , Connecticut Office of Manufacturing , Connecticut Center for Advanced Technolog y , and the U.S. Commercial Service . It was hosted by the University of Hartford .

“We are incredibly excited to welcome NASA, their prime contractors, and CT industry partners to campus for this event,” said Hisham Alnajjar , Dean, College of Engineering, Technology, and Architecture and Interim Director, NASA CT Space Grant Consortium.

Alnajjar delivered the day’s opening remarks along with Connecticut Chief Manufacturing Officer Paul Lavoie , who served as event emcee.

“Since 1991, the University of Hartford has been proud to be the lead institution for the NASA Connecticut Space Grant Consortium, whose office is located on our campus. This fruitful partnership has led to hands-on learning opportunities that position our students and faculty to be leaders in the aerospace technologies of the future,” said Alnajjar.

“This is an invaluable chance for Connecticut manufacturers and processors to directly engage with NASA and their prime contractors, empowering them to diversify, innovate, and thrive in a highly competitive global market,” said Beatriz Gutierrez , President & CEO, CONNSTEP.

“CONNSTEP is proud to support this event, which will undoubtedly strengthen Connecticut’s position as a hub for aerospace manufacturing and technological innovation.”

“This exciting opportunity will foster collaboration and provide valuable insights into technologies that drive innovation and NASA’s groundbreaking projects and partnerships,” said Ron Angelo , President & CEO, CCAT.

Featured NASA speakers John Koelling , Director of Aeronautics Research, Langley Research Center, and Sharon Cobb, Ph.D., Space Launch System Associate Program Manager, Marshall Space Flight Center, delivered overviews of diverse NASA programs, including the Artemis campaign missions, where dozens of Connecticut companies are already making critical contributions that are helping to return humans to the moon, and laying the groundwork for missions to Mars.

“American industry in all 50 states is playing an indispensable and expanding role in returning humans to the moon, and on to Mars, and we’re excited to be here in Connecticut today educating potential new team members on how to bring their talents to bear for NASA’s missions,” said Cobb.

NASA’s David Brock, Small Business Specialist at Marshall Space Flight Center, detailed the roles of contractors and suppliers in the aerospace supply chain, highlighting the importance small businesses play.

Brock also spoke about the NASA Mentor Protégé Program, which focuses on addressing NASA’s supply chain gaps.

“The aerospace component manufacturers and processors in our region are eager to engage with NASA and their prime contractors to gain insight into their evolving supply chain needs,” said Jessica Taylor , Executive Director, Aerospace Component Manufacturers.

Representatives from the prime contractors including Aerojet Rocketdyne , SpaceX , Northrop Grumman , Amentum , and Teledyne Brown Engineering were on hand to meet with attendees and share insights into the world of aerospace and technology. During a morning panel, they discussed their relationships with NASA, supplier approval processes, and small business success stories, followed by an audience Q&A.

“With proven expertise and advanced manufacturing capabilities, our companies are well-equipped to support NASA’s current and future space missions, and we are pleased to host them here in Connecticut,” said Taylor.

“Partnering with Connecticut aerospace companies and NASA to form strategic supplier relationships strengthens the state’s industrial base and plants a flag in the space economy,” said Angelo.

“Together, we are shaping a future where Connecticut leads in advanced manufacturing and innovation.”

The day culminated in a powerful networking session, where manufacturers connected with industry experts, exploring the vast potential for growth and collaboration through partnerships with NASA and its prime contractors.

“Connecticut has a long and deep history of innovation in aerospace and defense, and we have numerous companies that are ready to help NASA achieve their goals by tapping into our supply chain companies,” said Lavoie.

“This program is an important step in continuing to connect Connecticut’s world-class aerospace supply chain to NASA and their primes,” said Grosso.

Meet Our Team

Our multi-disciplinary team of experts takes a holistic approach by leveraging industry knowledge to offer tailored services for success.

Check out our "About Us" page here. CONNSTEP has become one of the top MEP centers in the network by supporting the evolution of Connecticut’s manufacturers to be the most resilient, reliable, innovative, and productive in the nation.

Your Success, Our Mission.

CT Manufacturing Help

Receive immediate manufacturing help with our new connstep.help site! Texting for assistance is now live. Text "mfghelp" to 860.513.3200.

CONNSTEP Newsletter | March 2025

Sun, 30 Mar 2025 22:01:41 GMT

CONNSTEP is proud to launch impaCT Workshops , a new initiative designed to help Connecticut manufacturers stay competitive, adopt best practices, and implement real-world solutions. These workshops provide hands-on learning, expert insights, and networking opportunities to drive meaningful improvements across manufacturing operations. ImpaCT Workshops will be held a few times each year, at various locations around the state, focused on trending topics.

CONNSTEP Proudly Introduces impaCT Workshops

CT Manufacturing Careers Roadshow 2025

Inspire the next generation of manufacturers! Join ReadyCT for the CT Manufacturing Careers Roadshow 2025, a dynamic event designed to connect local students with the exciting world of modern manufacturing. This is your chance to showcase your company, your innovative technologies, and the rewarding career opportunities available right here in our community.

Recent Blogs

Why Quality Management is Non-Negotiable for Manufacturers

In today’s fast-paced and highly competitive manufacturing landscape, maintaining impeccable quality is more than a necessity—it’s a strategic imperative. Quality management systems (QMS) serve as the backbone of this endeavor, ensuring that every product meets rigorous standards and fulfills customer expectations. This blog delves into the critical importance of quality management, the benefits of certifications like ISO 9001 and AS9100D, the role of internal audits, and the transformative power of artificial intelligence in quality measures.

Upcoming Training & Events

Training | Workshops
Quality Essentials Program – Spring 2025
Date: Tuesdays, April 3-May 8
Time: 9 am-3 pm
Location: Hartford

Webinar Series
Lean Thinking: How to Transform Your Company
Date: Thursday, April 17
Time: 11 am-12 noon
Location: Online

impaCT Workshop
CMMC Informational Breakfast with Anna Mumford
Date: Wednesday, May 7
Time: 8 am-10:30 am
Location: Farmington or Online – Hybrid

Webinar Series
CMMC Compliance: What You Need to Know
Date: Thursday, May 8
Time: 11 am-12 noon
Location: Online

Training | Workshops
Supervisor Bootcamp – Late Spring
Date: Fridays, May 9-June 27
Time: 8 am-12 noon
Location: New London

Training | Workshops
Cybersecurity Maturity Model Certification (CMMC) Bootcamp
Date: Tuesdays & Wednesdays, May 13-May 27
Time: 8:30 am-12:00 pm
Location: Virtual

Manufacturing Meetup | Networking
Manufacturing Meetup: Blooms & Brews
Date: Tuesday, May 13
Time: 4:30-6:30 pm
Location: Danbury

impaCT Workshop
The Lean Progression presented by Bill Greider
Date: Wednesday, May 14
Time: 8 am-12 noon
Location: Waterbury

Webinar Series
CT SMARTE
Date: Thursday, June 12
Time: 11 am-12 noon
Location: Online

impaCT Workshop
The Lean Turnaround presented by Art Byrne
Date: Wednesday, June 18
Time: 8 am-11:30 am
Location: Glastonbury

More Upcoming Events

South Central CT Manufacturing Careers Roadshow 2025 | April 2 | 9 am-12 pm
Doing Business with NASA and Their Primes | April 3 | 7 am-3:30 pm
HR Roundtable: EEO & Workplace Policies in a Changing Legal Landscape | April 10 | 9 am-10:30 am
Evening of Education at MASC | April 17 | 5:30-7:30 pm
2025 Connecticut Workforce Summit: Developing Future-Ready Talent | April 22 | 8 am-3 pm
Partnering with ReadyCT: Build your Future Workforce | April 24 | 1-2 pm
Manufacturing ConneCTion Fair & College Career/Internship Fair | May 15 | 8AM-2:30 pm
CT Manufacturing Careers Roadshow | May-October

Manufacturing News

Manufacturing Resources

Register your company today and secure your spot at the CT Manufacturing Careers Roadshow!

Ideally, it’s a win-win for the company and the students: the company has their problem solved and students get hands-on experience problem solving.

CONNSTEP will coordinate the connection between the manufacturer and the university, and assist the process as needed.

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

Additional Resources

Join the Newsletter Mailing List

Sign-up for our monthly newsletter below.

CONNSTEP Monthly Newsletter

Technology Edge: CONNSTEP and Pronto System Solutions Partner to Empower Modern Manufacturing Through Automation

Fri, 28 Mar 2025 13:03:41 GMT

CONNSTEP, Connecticut’s leading manufacturing consulting firm, proudly welcomes Pronto System Solutions as its newest technology partner .

For 15 years, Pronto System Solutions has been empowering manufacturers with innovative technology, helping companies optimize their production through automation implementation and integration.

Based in Torrington, Connecticut, PSS specializes in delivering tailored solutions that leverage industry-leading platforms to improve operational efficiency, enhance product quality, and drive sustainable growth.

Customized to each manufacturer’s automation, data collection, and Human Machine Interface needs, PSS leverages Supervisory Control and Data Acquisition and Manufacturing Execution Systems to integrate devices, instruments, and reporting systems.

Crucial for modern manufacturing, their scalable and flexible software enables comprehensive facility automation, production scheduling, Overall Equipment Effectiveness monitoring, downtime analysis, and traceability.

“At Pronto System Solutions, we are excited to partner with CONNSTEP to drive innovation in automation control systems,” said A.J. Berera, Senior Project Manager, Pronto System Solutions.

“By combining our expertise with their industry leadership, we aim to enhance manufacturing capabilities with revolutionary technology and unwavering support.”

The team at Pronto System Solutions delivers seamless system integration, driving lean production efficiencies and modernizing client capabilities.

“In today’s dynamic manufacturing landscape, businesses need to embrace digital transformation to stay competitive,” said Anthony DiCioccio , CONNSTEP Technology Innovation and Improvement Consultant.

“Pronto System Solutions provides the expertise and technology to help manufacturers optimize their operations.”

From optimized supply chains to enhanced customer experiences, Pronto System Solutions delivers the technological edge needed for modern manufacturing success.

Interested in CONNSTEP’s Technology Partners or would like to become one? Visit: connstep.org/resources/technology-partners

Technology Partners

Check out CONNSTEP's powerful team of Technology Partners. Contact us to connect with them!

About CONNSTEP

Learn how CONNSTEP empowers Connecticut manufacturers with expert consulting, innovative solutions, and industry-leading support.

In November 2024, our Technology Partners joined us at our monthly webinar series to introduce themselves - check it out on YouTube!

Meet Our Technology Partners Webinar

CONNSTEP Proudly Introduces impaCT Workshops

Tue, 25 Mar 2025 13:05:19 GMT

CONNSTEP is proud to launch impaCT Workshops, a new initiative designed to help Connecticut manufacturers stay competitive, adopt best practices, and implement real-world solutions. These workshops provide hands-on learning, expert insights, and networking opportunities to drive meaningful improvements across manufacturing operations. ImpaCT Workshops will be held a few times each year, at various locations around the state, focused on trending topics.

Why Attend?

Manufacturing is evolving rapidly, and staying ahead requires continuous learning and process refinement. The impaCT Workshops bring together industry leaders, proven methodologies, and actionable strategies to help companies enhance efficiency, improve quality, and boost profitability. Participants will leave each session with practical tools they can apply immediately in their facilities.

Upcoming Workshops

The Lean Progression – May 14 | Waterbury, CT

Led by Bill Greider, this workshop explores how manufacturers can identify inefficiencies, optimize processes, and sustain continuous improvement. Attendees will gain a deeper understanding of Lean principles through real-world applications, a tour of the Manufacturing Alliance Services Corporation (MASC), and interactive discussions.

The Lean Turnaround – June 18 | Hilton Garden Inn Glastonbury, CT

Led by Art, Byrne, internationally recognized Lean expert and author of The Lean Turnaround, this session provides a step-by-step framework for implementing Lean strategies. Attendees will learn how to transform company culture, eliminate waste, and enhance operational flow. Participants will also receive a copy of Art’s book and have the chance to engage in a Q&A session.

Who Should Attend?

These workshops are ideal for CEOs, COOs, Directors of Operations, Plant Managers, and manufacturing leaders looking to improve efficiency, reduce costs, and foster a culture of continuous improvement.

Want to Learn More?

Attend our upcoming webinar, Lean Thinking: How to Transform Your Company on April 17, to get more insight on what to expect at the upcoming impaCT Workshops. Hear from CONNSTEP’s Continuing Improvement Consultant, Matin Karbassioon, and prepare any questions you may have for real time answers.

ImpaCT Workshop Cost & Registration

$50 per person, includes delicious breakfast, materials, and networking opportunitie s.

Join us and be part of a stronger, more innovative Connecticut manufacturing community. Register today!

Learn more: https://www.connstep.org/impact-workshops/

impaCT Workshops

Join CONNSTEP on May 14 and June 18 with Lean experts, Bill Greider and Art Byrne.

About CONNSTEP

Learn how CONNSTEP empowers Connecticut manufacturers with expert consulting, innovative solutions, and industry-leading support.

April 17 with Continuous Improvement Consultant, Matin Karbassioon. Gain insights on what to expect at the upcoming impaCT Workshops and Lean training essentials.

Lean Thinking Webinar

CT Manufacturing Careers Roadshow 2025

Mon, 10 Mar 2025 13:41:46 GMT

Calling All Manufacturers!

Join ReadyCT for the CT Manufacturing Careers Roadshow 2025, a dynamic event designed to connect local students with the exciting world of modern manufacturing. This is your chance to showcase your company, your innovative technologies, and the rewarding career opportunities available right here in our community.

Why Exhibit?

Shape the Future Workforce: Directly engage with hundreds of students (middle & high school) eager to explore career paths in manufacturing.
Showcase Your Innovation: Demonstrate your cutting-edge technologies, products, and processes.
Connect with Future Talent: Begin building relationships with potential future employees.
Invest in Your Community: Contribute to the growth and development of the local manufacturing sector.

Event Details:

Questions? deb.presbie@readyct.org

Driving Innovation: CONNSTEP & Neulcon Partner to Connect Manufacturers to Custom Enterprise AI Applications

Mon, 03 Mar 2025 13:48:22 GMT

CONNSTEP is thrilled to announce our newest technology partnership with Neuclon, an early-stage startup based in East Hartford, CT empowering small and medium-sized manufacturers to optimize their operations with custom-built Enterprise AI Applications.

Neuclon’s proprietary AI models, data connector, and modeling algorithms are designed specifically for the unique business models and value-based use-cases of manufacturers, providing them the capability to deploy pre-trained models for faster time to value and deeper insights at a lower cost.

Founded by Seth Wiafe, who brings extensive experience working within multiple manufacturing facilities, Neuclon understands firsthand the challenges manufacturers face with various data platforms, data collection and analysis, and the limitations of existing solutions.

Neuclon’s AI solutions directly address these gaps and are designed to seamlessly integrate with existing systems and provide actionable insights that drive real business value.

“Neuclon is honored to be a CONNSTEP Technology Partner, and we look forward to helping their clients be more productive and competitive by using our Single Insight analytics and AI software,” said Wiafe.

“It’s designed to be a practical and cost-effective way for any-size manufacturer to get more out of their data and the software they currently use.”

Neuclon works closely with clients to identify key performance metrics and tailor solutions to achieve specific goals. These metrics can include Return on Investment, Overall Productivity (e.g., operation cost per unit of output), User Adoption Rate, Time to Value, Accuracy and Precision of Predictive Models, and Real-Time Data Integration.

“CONNSTEP is committed to helping Connecticut manufacturers thrive in today’s competitive landscape,” said Anthony DiCioccio , CONNSTEP Strategist Services Consultant .

“Our partnership with Neuclon brings cutting-edge, accessible AI solutions directly to our clients, enabling them to optimize operations, improve efficiency, and drive growth. We believe this collaboration will be a game-changer for manufacturers looking to leverage the power of data and AI.”

Neuclon is eager to help Connecticut manufacturers unlock the full potential of their data through AI implementation.

Interested in CONNSTEP’s Technology Partners or would like to become one? Click here to learn more.

Technology Partners

Discover innovative solutions from our trusted Technology Partners, helping manufacturers drive efficiency, innovation, and growth.

About CONNSTEP

Learn how CONNSTEP empowers Connecticut manufacturers with expert consulting, innovative solutions, and industry-leading support.

Embracing technology within the manufacturing process can alleviate your challenges and expand your capabilities. Let us show you how.

Innovate with Technology & Automation

Why Quality Management is Non-Negotiable for Manufacturers

Thu, 27 Feb 2025 13:53:44 GMT

The Purpose and Maintenance of Quality Management Systems

A quality management system is a structured framework of processes, procedures, and responsibilities for achieving quality policies and objectives. It provides a systematic approach to managing and improving the quality of products and services, thereby enhancing customer satisfaction. Maintaining a robust QMS is crucial as it helps in identifying inefficiencies, reducing waste, and ensuring compliance with regulatory requirements. A well-maintained QMS leads to consistent quality, lower production costs, and higher customer trust.

The Importance of Internal Quality Audits

Internal quality audits are an integral part of a QMS, serving as a tool to monitor the effectiveness of internal control processes. These audits help in identifying non-conformities, areas of improvement, and potential risks. By regularly conducting internal audits, manufacturers can ensure that their processes are in alignment with the set standards and objectives, thus fostering a culture of continuous improvement. Effective internal audits not only help in maintaining compliance but also provide valuable insights into process optimization.

Achieving and Maintaining Certification to Industry Standards

Certifications like ISO 9001 and AS9100D are benchmarks of quality that demonstrate a manufacturer’s commitment to excellence. ISO 9001, a globally recognized standard for QMS, provides a framework that ensures products and services consistently meet customer and regulatory requirements. AS9100D, specifically tailored for the aerospace industry, includes additional requirements to address the unique needs of this sector. Achieving and maintaining these certifications signify a manufacturer’s dedication to quality and continuous improvement, offering significant benefits such as enhanced marketability, increased customer confidence, and access to new markets.

Staying Compliant with Evolving Standards

Standards and regulations are continually evolving to address new challenges and technological advancements. Staying compliant with these evolving standards is critical for manufacturers to remain competitive and avoid costly penalties. Compliance ensures that the products are safe, reliable, and of high quality. Moreover, it helps in building a reputation for reliability and excellence, which is essential for attracting new customers and retaining existing ones.

Creating a Sustainable Competitive Advantage

A reputation for quality can create a sustainable competitive advantage in the marketplace. Quality-driven manufacturers are destinations for new customers thanks to their consistent development and production. High-quality standards lead to fewer defects, reduced recalls, and lower warranty costs, all of which contribute to better financial performance. In a market where customers are increasingly quality-conscious, a strong reputation for quality can differentiate a manufacturer from its competitors.

The Role of Artificial Intelligence in Quality Measures

Artificial intelligence (AI) is revolutionizing quality management by providing advanced tools for monitoring and improving quality. AI-driven quality measures include predictive analytics, real-time monitoring, and automated inspections, which help in detecting defects early and reducing variability. The application of AI in quality management enables manufacturers to achieve higher precision, reduce production costs, and enhance overall efficiency. AI technologies support continuous improvement initiatives by providing data-driven insights and automating repetitive tasks.

Support from Organizations like ASQ and CONNSTEP

Organizations such as the American Society for Quality (ASQ) and CONNSTEP play a vital role in supporting manufacturers in their quality management efforts. These organizations equip manufacturers with the tools and knowledge necessary to improve quality and customer satisfaction, driving business growth and sustainability.

ASQ offers education, training, and professional quality credentials that help individuals and organizations enhance their quality practices. In addition to providing consulting services, internal quality audits, and assistance with industry standard certifications, CONNSTEP offer a Quality Essentials Program (QEP). QEP is designed to address the increasing need for skilled quality workers in manufacturing by teaching essential quality concepts, principles, and practices.

Quality management is crucial for modern manufacturers to remain competitive, compliant, and customer focused. By implementing and maintaining robust QMS, conducting regular internal audits, achieving industry certifications, and leveraging AI technologies, manufacturers can ensure continuous improvement and build a reputation for excellence. With support from organizations like ASQ and CONNSTEP, manufacturers can navigate the complexities of quality management and achieve long-term success.

Quality Essentials Program

Build & sustain high quality standards for your business. CONNSTEP's QEP training begins April 3, 2025.

About CONNSTEP

Learn how CONNSTEP empowers Connecticut manufacturers with expert consulting, innovative solutions, and industry-leading support.

A Quality Management System will not only differentiate your business from the competition but also increase customer confidence. Let us show you how.

Establish a Culture of Quality

CONNSTEP & iQ3Connect: Advancing Connecticut Manufacturing

Mon, 17 Feb 2025 13:56:46 GMT

CONNSTEP is excited to announce a new technology partnership with iQ3Connect, a leading provider of cutting-edge XR (Extended Reality) training solutions.

Through iQ3Connect’s innovative XR platform (Augmented Reality, Mixed Reality, and Virtual Reality), this collaboration will enable Connecticut’s small and medium-sized manufacturers to cost-effectively operationalize immersive training and collaboration.

“This partnership with CONNSTEP, uniting iQ3Connect’s XR Training Platform with CONNSTEP’s expert business consulting, will empower Connecticut businesses with innovative 3D spatial learning and XR technology to streamline workforce development, improve operational efficiency, and accelerate digital transformation,” said Ali Merchant, CEO & Founder of iQ3Connect.

iQ3Connect’s technology simplifies and expedites the process for bringing digital assets (3D CAD, scans, 360o video) into immersive experiences that are accessible on any browser-based device.

In November of 2024, iQ3Connect presented during CONNSTEP’s webinar , “ Stay Competitive, Drive Revenue, Reduce Costs,” powered by CONNSTEP’s Technology Partners .

“CONNSTEP is excited to collaborate with iQ3Connect,” said CONNSTEP Strategist Services Consultant Anthony DiCioccio .

“Their cutting-edge XR solutions offer a unique opportunity for Connecticut’s small and medium-sized manufacturers to reimagine their operations.”

Through this partnership, CONNSTEP clients can access iQ3Connect’s self-service platform to create custom XR training experiences for maintenance, repair, operations, assembly, manufacturing and other industrial use cases.

This advanced training system can enhance knowledge retention, accelerate skill development, and improve safety, leading to a more efficient and effective workforce better prepared for the demands of modern manufacturing.

By connecting manufacturers with iQ3Connect’s XR training solutions, CONNSTEP is helping to build a more competitive and innovative manufacturing ecosystem in Connecticut.

Interested in CONNSTEP’s Technology Partners or would like to become one? Click here to learn more.

View Technology Partners

Discover innovative solutions from our trusted Technology Partners, helping manufacturers drive efficiency, innovation, and growth.

CONNSTEP Webinar Series

Gain insights from industry experts through our free webinars, covering key topics to help manufacturers stay competitive and grow.

Learn how CONNSTEP empowers Connecticut manufacturers with expert consulting, innovative solutions, and industry-leading support.

About CONNSTEP

CONNSTEP Newsletter | February 2025

Mon, 03 Feb 2025 14:12:33 GMT

“When I first started at this facility it was in a transition to new ownership so unfortunately some areas, such as internal auditing, were past due. There were also little to no resources available to conduct the audits. Having worked with CONNSTEP at my previous employer, I knew the value in having CONNSTEP cover this critical portion of the standard. CONNSTEP’s service provides objective and effective results without taxing existing or limited internal company resources.”

-Carlo Samartano, Quality Assurance Manager, Pursuit Aersopace

Internal Quality Audit Puts Aerospace Manufacturer Back on Track to Compliance

Lean Training Streamlines Operations for Home Bathroom Remodeling Manufacturer

“Working with CONNSTEP has been instrumental with starting the conversation around lean with our entire team and getting everyone on board with maximizing efficiencies and constant improvement. It’s forced us to look at all aspects of the business from accounting, production, customer services, and more to find the best possible way to provide the most for our customers as efficiently as possible. We were able to reimagine our space and avoid a $1 million addition to our facility by working with what we already have and cleaning up wasted areas and wasteful procedures.”

-Derek Hill, Sales Manager, Syn-Mar Products, Inc.

Recent Blogs

Breaking It Down – Manufacturing Extension Partnership (MEP) Explained

What is the MEP? And why should every small and medium-sized manufacturer in the United States and Puerto Rico know? Let’s break it down.
Headlines: Background, About, Mission, Partnerships, Impact, Funding Model, Value, Benefits, Contact

Coolest Night in Connecticut: The Manufacturing Community Comes Together to Celebrate Innovation and Industry

The Connecticut Science Center, a hub of creativity, inventiveness, and imagination, was the perfect backdrop for CONNSTEP’s Manufacturing Meetup: Innovation and Industry held on January 9.

Read this blog:
https://www.connstep.org/news-media/coolest-night-in-connecticut-the-manufacturing-community-comes-together-to-celebrate-innovation-and-industry/

Upcoming Training & Events

Webinar Series
“Top 10 Tips for Interviewing & Recruiting Talent”
Date: Thursday, February 20
Time: 11 am-12 noon
Location: Online

Training | Workshops
Supervisor Bootcamp – Milford
Date: Fridays, March 7-April 18
Time: 8 am-12 pm
Location: Milford

Training | Workshops
Continuous Improvement Champion Certification (CICC)
Date: Tuesdays, March 11-May 20
Time: 8:30 am-4:30 pm
Location: Cromwell

Training | Workshops
Quality Essentials Program – Spring 2025
Date: Tuesdays, April 3-May 8
Time: 9 am-3 pm
Location: Cromwell

Training | Workshops
Cybersecurity Maturity Model Certification (CMMC) Bootcamp
Date: Tuesdays & Wednesdays, May 13-May 27
Time: 8:30 am-12:00 pm
Location: Virtual

More Upcoming Events

SMARTE Series: Revolutionize Your CNC Programming with Model-Based Definition | Wed, Feb 5 | 10:00 am-2:00 pm
Healthcare Summit: Controlling the Cost Curve | Wed, Feb 12 | 8:30 am-11:45 am
“Powering Production: Financial Resources for Manufacturers” Roundtable Discussion | Tues, Feb 25 | 9:00 am-11:00 am
CBIA 2025 Human Resources Conference | Tues, Feb 25 | 8:30 am-2:45 pm
“CMMC Rule & Compliance: What You Need to Know” Webinar | Wed, Mar 5 | 11:00 am-12:00 pm
When Women Lead Happy Hour | Thu, Mar 6 | 4:00 pm-6:00 pm
CT Manufacturing Careers Roadshow | May-October

Manufacturing News

Capstone Projects

Ideally, it’s a win-win for the company and the students: the company has their problem solved and students get hands-on experience problem solving.

CONNSTEP will coordinate the connection between the manufacturer and the university, and assist the process as needed.

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

Additional Resources

Join the Newsletter Mailing List

Sign-up for our monthly newsletter below.

CONNSTEP Monthly Newsletter

Coolest Night in Connecticut: The Manufacturing Community Comes Together to Celebrate Innovation and Industry

Thu, 23 Jan 2025 14:45:07 GMT

The Connecticut Science Center , a hub of creativity, inventiveness, and imagination, was the perfect backdrop for CONNSTEP’s Manufacturing Meetup: Innovation and Industry held on January 9.

More than 100 attendees from across Connecticut’s manufacturing ecosystem braved the cold, coming together for a night of networking at CONNSTEP’s second sold-out Manufacturing Meetup, hosted in partnership with our affiliate CBIA and the CBIA Foundation.

It was also a night to celebrate the strength of Connecticut manufacturing, “Not only do we make the coolest products in the country, but we have the coolest people who make them as well,” said Connecticut’s Chief Manufacturing Officer, Paul Lavoie.

The event was held in the Science Center’s Invention Dimension area. As attendees entered the space, they were greeted by the focal point of the event, the Coolest Thing Made in Connecticut exhibit.

“The highlight for me was having the event right in front of the Coolest Things Made in Connecticut exhibit,” said Smith Brothers Risk Advisor, Travis Mistretta.

CONNSTEP was proud to partner with CBIA and the Connecticut Office of Manufacturing for the inaugural Coolest Thing competition sponsored by CliftonLarsonAllen which launched in August 2024.

“We were thrilled to be part of it and celebrate Connecticut’s long history of manufacturing and make sure that we’re spreading light on the fact that manufacturing is such a significant component of the Connecticut economy,” said Matt Gaieski, Principal at Clifton Larson Allen.

CliftonLarsonAllen also generously sponsored the Manufacturing Meetup.

16 Connecticut-made products , including delicious foods and drinks, an iconic movie prop, and items many of us use daily, went head-to-head in a bracket-style competition to decide which would be the Coolest Thing Made in Connecticut.

The four finalists were the Sikorsky Blackhawk Helicopter, the Pratt & Whitney GTF Engine, Medtronic’s Signia Stapling System, and the eventual winner, after 115,000 votes from the public, General Dynamics Electric Boat’s Virginia-Class Submarine. Mistretta went on to say,

“it was eye-opening to see the strength of Connecticut’s manufacturing sector on display, featuring products like Athletic Brewing’s Run Wild IPA and LesserEvil Snacks, both of which I frequently see in stores today.”

The contest was a huge success and the momentum of the Coolest Thing continued as CBIA President and CEO Chris DiPentima detailed at the Meetup,

“The Science Center said, ‘Hey we’ve got an idea, why don’t we take this and make an exhibit out of it so our young people can see some of the great, cool things that are made in Connecticut?’”

The Coolest Thing Made in Connecticut exhibit, which showcases each product from the competition and showcases the state’s manufacturing excellence, opened to guests on the Science Center’s fifth floor in November 2024 and will be on display through March 2025.

“It’s an incredibly exciting time to be in Connecticut, it’s an incredibly exciting time to be in manufacturing in Connecticut,” said Lavoie.

Beatriz Gutierrez, President and CEO of CONNSTEP encouraged everyone at the event to bring a young person to the Science Center to help spark imagination and inspire the next generation of manufacturers.

“It’s one thing to go and say we are innovators, it’s another thing to come and see what we make–to really experience the technology, to really experience and get their mind thinking about what they can do,” she said.

Throughout the evening, Meetup attendees got to tap into their inner child by interacting with the displays in the Invention Dimension, from solving puzzles to learning about some of the greatest Connecticut inventions.

Sharing space with the Invention Dimension was the expansive Exploring Space exhibit that provided the opportunity to travel the solar system, land on Mars, and dive into deep space all while enjoying great conversation and the featured ‘Coolest Mocktail Made in Connecticut.’

Zaneez Founder and CEO Dr. Marien J. Zanyk summed up the night perfectly saying,

“The CONNSTEP CBIA manufacturing meet-up at the Science Center yesterday was an inspiring convergence of innovation for the future of manufacturing excellence.”

The Meetup was a fantastic way to kick off 2025, generating enthusiasm for the exciting year ahead in Connecticut manufacturing.

Join CONNSTEP’s exclusive LinkedIn Group to get the notification for the next Manufacturing Meetup in Spring 2025! Join the group here: https://connstep.info/CONNSTEP-Community-Group

View photo album below.

Coolest Thing Made in CT

It is a first-of-its-kind competition for Connecticut – the Coolest Thing Made in Connecticut. Click here to read.

CONNSTEP Events

Check out our "Events & Trainings" page to stay up to date. Trainings, webinars, networking events, and more!

Join us at our next Manufacturing Meetup! Learn more about them and mark your calendars for the next one.

Manufacturing Meetups

Startup Company Zaneez® Health Scales Up Production Based on Field Success

Tue, 21 Jan 2025 14:51:04 GMT

Startup companies attempting to introduce new products face numerous challenges as they bring their innovations to market. Startup company Zaneez® Health in Glastonbury, Connecticut successfully navigated the entrepreneurial eco-system to bring their orthopedic and rehabilitation manufactured products to market.

Dr. Marien Zanyk, founder of Zaneez aspired to offer unique products that support recovery and athletic performance. She faced headwinds introducing her first orthopedic product, but with her ambition and the help and guidance of resources in Connecticut, Zaneez is poised for business growth.

From Prototype to Production

In the early stages of launching her company, Dr. Zanyk reached out to CONNSTEP, the Connecticut Manufacturing Extension Partnership (MEP) center, for manufacturing assistance for her initial product offering.

CONNSTEP senior advisor Jack Crane introduced Dr. Zanyk to the UConn Tech Park for their 3D printing and scanning capabilities and connected her to Canevari Plastics in Milford, Connecticut for their thermoforming technology to handle the low volume production run of her orthopedic products. She also contracted with Spark Design in Meriden for CAD redesign and production modeling.

Crane also introduced Dr. Zanyk to FORGE, an organization in Connecticut that connects entrepreneurs who have new product ideas with manufacturing suppliers, fostering supply chain relationships between startups and manufacturers. According to Dr. Zanyk, “the support of FORGE was instrumental in getting my company off the ground.” FORGE was contracted by the Connecticut Manufacturing Office and is funded by the Manufacturing Innovation Fund (MIF).

Working with partners and leveraging resources in the state has permitted Zaneez to move from the prototype stage to thermoforming production scale up. Positive market response in the field has enabled the company to successfully pivot from low volume thermoform manufacturing to higher volume injection molding mass production. Dr. Zanyk added, “I see a forest of opportunity for my products. I’ve created my own playbook and I’m a warrior in the field. I think startups provide inspiration for others and an economic spark to fuel the economy.”

Contributions to the Economy

Startup companies like Zaneez Health do in fact bring significant value to the economy. They drive innovation, create jobs, and encourage competition, which can lead to better products and lower costs for consumers. Additionally, the growth of new companies stimulates local economies and contributes to broader economic diversity.

By introducing unique solutions to the orthopedic and rehabilitation market, Zaneez not only fulfills a consumer need but also pushes larger companies to adapt and invest more in innovation, ultimately benefiting the industries they market to, including healthcare, athletics, and more.

Given the importance that new product companies have on our economy, the following strategies provide insights for potential startups to help cultivate their success.

Strategies for Success

For startups looking to successfully introduce new products, particularly in challenging and competitive fields, these strategies can be beneficial:

Focus on Innovation and Quality : Startups should prioritize product quality and innovation to differentiate themselves from established brands. The right research and development ensure the best products are brought to market. Establishing early partnerships with reliable manufacturers can not only ease production but also create trust and enable smoother scalability.
Network Proactively : Building relationships across the industry—from suppliers to potential customers—is crucial. Networking can open doors to partnerships and provide insights into market trends. CONNSTEP continues to collaborate with Zaneez to help support Dr. Zanyk’s emerging company and enhance her manufacturing prowess.
Develop a Strong Brand Identity : Clearly defining what makes the company unique is essential to capturing market interest. For Zaneez, aligning the brand with athletic rehabilitation and recovery has helped establish its identity in the professional and collegiate sports market and as a go-to product in the health improvement field.
Financial Prudence and Strategic Investment : Managing cash flow and carefully planning expenses will help startups survive in their early years. Dr. Zanyk advises, “Get professionals involved early. They recognize your value and can assist with production, financial management, and marketing.”

In conclusion, while Zaneez Health faced the typical challenges of a startup, Dr. Zanyk focused on product innovation, finding and building strong partnerships with essential resources in the state, applying quality production capabilities, and employing effective marketing strategies to nurture market response. With perseverance, support, and fortitude, startups can successfully establish themselves and thrive.

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Breaking It Down – Manufacturing Extension Partnership (MEP) Explained

Tue, 14 Jan 2025 15:00:23 GMT

What is the MEP? And why should every small and medium-sized manufacturer in the United States and Puerto Rico know? Let’s break it down.

Background

MEP stands for Manufacturing Extension Partnership .

The Hollings Manufacturing Extension Partnership Program was established by Public Law in 1988.

The founding legislation provides the statute for the Program’s purpose, objectives, eligibility to apply for funding, activities of MEP Centers funded under the Program, and the cost share, performance, and evaluation requirements. It also establishes an MEP Advisory Board .

Three public laws dictate and govern the Hollings Manufacturing Extension Partnership Program and activities:

Hollings Manufacturing Extension Partnership Program: 15 USC 278k
Competitive Awards Program: 15 USC 278k-1
Expansion Awards Pilot Program: 15 USC 278k-2

About

The MEP is part of the United States Department of Commerce’s National Institute of Standards and Technology (NIST) . The national Program Office (NIST MEP) which provides the federal government funding for the MEP National Network™ is in Gaithersburg, MD.

For more than 35 years, the MEP program has worked to strengthen and empower U.S. manufacturing through a nationwide network of MEP Centers.

Each of the 50 United States and Puerto Rico has an MEP Center . Each center is part of the MEP National Network™.

The MEP National Network™ is a unique public-private partnership that delivers comprehensive, proven solutions to U.S. manufacturers, fueling growth and advancing U.S. manufacturing.

Focused on helping small and medium-sized manufacturers generate business results and thrive in today’s technology-driven economy, the MEP National Network comprises the National Institute of Standards and Technology’s Manufacturing Extension Partnership (NIST MEP), the 51 MEP Centers, the MEP Advisory Board, MEP Center boards, and the Foundation for Manufacturing Excellence, as well as over 1,440 trusted advisors and experts at approximately 460 MEP service locations, providing any U.S. manufacturer with access to resources they need to succeed.

CONNSTEP is the official representative of the MEP National Network in Connecticut and has become one of the top MEP centers in the network by supporting the evolution of Connecticut’s manufacturers to be the most resilient, reliable, innovative, and productive in the nation.

CONNSTEP is the leading manufacturing consulting firm in Connecticut. For over 25 years, the client-focused mission of our expert team has been centered on ensuring client success in today’s evolving manufacturing landscape.

Mission

NIST MEP’s mission is to enhance the productivity and technological performance of U.S. manufacturing.

Partnerships

The MEP National Network’s strength is in its partnerships .

Through its collaborations at the federal, state, and local levels, MEP Centers work with manufacturers to develop new products and customers, expand and diversify markets, adopt new technology, and enhance value within supply chains.

The MEP Program serves as a bridge to other organizations and federal research labs that share a passion for enhancing the manufacturing community.

Impact

For fiscal year 2023, MEP Centers interacted with more than 36,000 manufacturers, leading to $16.2 billion in sales, $2.9 billion in cost savings, $4.8 billion in new client investments, and helped create or retain more than 107,100 jobs.

In that same time frame, CONNSTEP clients across Connecticut helped bolster the state’s economy through $226 million in new or retained sales, $30 million in cost or investment savings, $39 million in new investments, and the retention or creation of nearly 1,000 jobs.

Funding Model

MEP is a public-private partnership, designed from inception as a cost-share program. Federal appropriations pay one-half, with the balance for each Center funded by state / local governments and/or private entities, plus client fees.

This cost-share model contributes to MEP’s success.

A GAO study found that because client fees give manufacturers a higher stake in the outcome of services, the positive impact on their businesses is greater.

Meanwhile, public funding allows smaller manufacturers to afford services. NIST MEP uses 2 CFR 200 to monitor and govern the recipients’ use of federal funds.

CONNSTEP is a 501(c)(3) nonprofit organization. To demonstrate the impact we are making to advance the growth and success of manufacturing in Connecticut, we capture the metrics of our clients’ projects and report the data to the U.S. Department of Commerce.

Value

As a public-private partnership, the Program delivers a high return on investment to taxpayers.

In FY2023, for every one dollar of federal investment, the MEP National Network generates $24.60 in new sales growth and $27.50 in new client investment.

This translates into more than $4.3 billion in new sales. During this same time, for every $1,633 of federal investment, the Network creates or retains one manufacturing job.

Benefits of Working With an MEP Center

National reach, local impact: With a network of over 1,440 manufacturing experts and thousands of partners across the U.S. and Puerto Rico, the MEP National Network works with over 30,000 manufacturers annually, delivering localized support that delivers national impact—from small rural communities to large cities.

Deep industry expertise: By working with the MEP National Network, organizations can secure reliable domestic suppliers, strengthen supply chain resilience, leverage innovative technologies, and develop a skilled workforce, driving the growth and competitiveness of manufacturing across critical industries like defense, aerospace, automotive, and more.

Customized support: MEP Centers provide comprehensive, hands-on consulting and training solutions tailored to each manufacturer’s unique challenges. This approach ensures that manufacturers receive practical solutions that lead to measurable improvements in efficiency, profitability, and competitiveness.

Proven ROI: MEP Centers have generated over $150 billion in sales growth for their manufacturing clients since 1988 and generated a 17:1 return on federal investment in 2023.

How to Reach CONNSTEP, Connecticut’s MEP

CONNSTEP’s team of trusted advisor s is dedicated to helping Connecticut small and medium-sized manufacturers reach their goals.

Our services include : Supply Chain Management, Technology Adoption, Workforce Development, Business Growth, Continuous Improvement & Lean Strategies, Quality Management & Certifications, Cybersecurity & Compliance, Environmental Health & Safety, and Human Resources.

For more information and to schedule a consultation, visit connstep.org , call or text us at 860-513-3200.

Information provided by: NIST Manufacturing Extension Partnership

Meet Our Team

Our multi-disciplinary team of experts takes a holistic approach by leveraging industry knowledge to offer tailored services for success.

Your Success, Our Mission.

Attend CONNSTEP's newest, upcoming webinar to meet some of the team and discover how CONNSTEP supports CT manufacturers with expert guidance. Free to attend, via Zoom.

"Get to Know CT's MEP" Webinar on January 16

CONNSTEP Newsletter | January 2025

Wed, 01 Jan 2025 15:07:27 GMT

Recent Blogs

Advantages of Hiring a Manufacturing Consulting Company

Hiring a manufacturing consulting company provides numerous advantages that can significantly impact the success and growth of small and medium-sized manufacturers. In today’s competitive manufacturing landscape, manufacturers face a variety of challenges, from operational inefficiencies to cybersecurity initiatives, to the integration of new technology and processes. A manufacturing consulting firm offers the expertise and solutions needed to overcome these hurdles, enabling companies to thrive in an ever-evolving industry.

Fall 2024 CICC Participants Showcase Real-World Projects in Final Presentation

Final project presentations were delivered by the Fall 2024 participants of CONNSTEP’s Continuous Improvement Champion Certification (CICC) training program. The attendees included employees from Connecticut manufacturers serving a diverse range of industries, including architectural lighting, aerospace, medical devices, automotive, energy, defense, sports, and recreation.

Read this blog: https://www.connstep.org/news-media/manufacturing-gov-manufacturing-opportunities/

Announcements

It’s the end of an era at CONNSTEP. Expert Senior Copywriter/Content Strategist, Dean Simmons, is officially unplugging the laptop and retiring.

Dean has been an invaluable member of the CONNSTEP team for nearly a decade, sharing his expertise, industry knowledge, and words of wisdom with everyone around him.

Congratulations Dean, and best of luck in retirement!

Upcoming Training & Events

Networking
Manufacturing Meetup: Innovation & Industry
Date: January 9, 2025
Time: 4:00-6:00 pm
Location: Connecticut Science Center

Training | Workshops
Supervisor Bootcamp – Spring 2025
Date: Fridays, March 7-April 18
Time: 8 am-12 pm
Location: Milford

Training | Workshops
Continuous Improvement Champion Certification (CICC)-Spring 2025
Date: Tuesdays, March 11-May 20
Time: 8:30 am-4:30 pm
Location: Cromwell

Training | Workshops
Quality Essentials Program – Spring 2025
Date: Tuesdays, April 3-May 8
Time: 9 am-3 pm
Location: Cromwell

More Upcoming Events

Policy Breakfast – Wallingford | Fri, Jan 10, 2025 | 8:00 am-10:00 am
Economic Summit + Outlook 2025 | Wed, Jan 15, 2025 | 8:30 am-11:45 am
Policy Breakfast – Farmington | Wed, Jan 22, 2025 | 8:00 am-10:00 am

Manufacturing News

Manufacturing Resources

Capstone Projects

Ideally, it’s a win-win for the company and the students: the company has their problem solved and students get hands-on experience problem solving.

CONNSTEP will coordinate the connection between the manufacturer and the university, and assist the process as needed.

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

Additional Resources

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Fall 2024 CICC Participants Showcase Real-World Projects in Final Presentation

Tue, 10 Dec 2024 15:12:28 GMT

Final project presentations were delivered by the Fall 2024 participants of CONNSTEP’s Continuous Improvement Champion Certification (CICC) training program. The attendees included employees from Connecticut manufacturers serving a diverse range of industries, including architectural lighting, aerospace, medical devices, automotive, energy, defense, sports, and recreation.

Throughout the program, participants gained in-depth knowledge of Lean manufacturing principles, techniques, continuous improvement, and team building best practices. They applied the skills and tools mastered during their CICC coursework to real-world projects within their organizations. Each participant’s project was guided by CICC program leader Matin Karbassioon and culminated in a final presentation detailing the project’s objectives, current state, and envisioned future state.

The projects addressed critical productivity challenges within their respective organizations, achieving significant outcomes such as reduced lead and cycle times, improved workflow efficiency, enhanced inventory accuracy, increased capacity, elimination of non-value-added activities, standardized processes, and strengthened quality control measures.

CICC participants made their project presentations representing the following manufacturing companies:

Jaypro Sports

Project: Soccer Goal Production Lead Time and Cost
CICC attendees: Paul du Toit, Dean Coughlin

Joining Technologies

Project: EMI Capacity: PSI Process Improvement
CICC attendees: Matthew Lanpher, Phoebe Gonzales (CONNSTEP)

QTL Lighting

Project: WIP Inventory Reduction & Accuracy
CICC attendees: Omar Villanueva, Daniel Butkievich

The CICC program participants will receive their final certifications from CONNSTEP within 90 days after submitting an update on their project metrics. The next CICC course is scheduled to begin in the spring of 2025. Check our website for registration details: connstep.org/events .

Meet Our Team

Our multi-disciplinary team of experts takes a holistic approach by leveraging industry knowledge to offer tailored services for success.

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CICC Spring 2025 registration is now open! Send yourself or someone from your company to learn how to effectively streamline workflows, eliminate waste, and increase revenue.

Create Your Own Team of Continuous Improvement Champions!

Advantages of Hiring a Manufacturing Consulting Company

Fri, 06 Dec 2024 15:15:20 GMT

Hiring a manufacturing consulting company provides numerous advantages that can significantly impact the success and growth of small and medium-sized manufacturers. In today’s competitive manufacturing landscape, manufacturers face a variety of challenges, from operational inefficiencies, to cybersecurity initiatives, to the integration of new technology and processes. A manufacturing consulting firm offers the expertise and solutions needed to overcome these hurdles, enabling companies to thrive in an ever-evolving industry.

Collaborative Relationships

One of the key benefits of hiring a manufacturing consulting firm is the close collaboration between manufacturer advisors and company leadership. By working hand-in-hand, consultants assess problems, identify key issues, and develop comprehensive strategies tailored to the specific needs of the manufacturer.

Manufacturing consultants establish a business partnership that emphasizes open and transparent communication and sets clear expectations for accomplishing goals. This personalized approach ensures that the guidance provided is relevant and actionable, enabling manufacturers to address immediate concerns while laying the groundwork for long-term success.

Knowledgeable Industry Experts

Experienced manufacturer advisors bring industry expertise, in-depth knowledge, and a strong understanding of trends and challenges within the manufacturing sector. They provide clients with a clear road map for achieving goals, whether it’s increasing efficiency, cybersecurity compliance, improving quality, reducing costs, or adopting new technologies.

By leveraging their skills and experience, consultants are able to help manufacturers navigate the complexities of the industry, offering solid plans of action that drive meaningful results. This guidance can be invaluable, especially for manufacturers looking to overcome supply chain disruptions, enhance cybersecurity, or meet industry standards and certifications.

Eliminate Waste

Another significant advantage of working with a manufacturing consulting company is the access to specialized expertise in lean manufacturing practices and process improvement. Lean manufacturing focuses on identifying and eliminating waste in various areas of the business, from office administration to shop floor operations, delivering transformative results.

Consultants who specialize in this area help manufacturers streamline their processes, reduce costs, improve overall efficiency, and establish a Lean culture throughout an entire organization. By implementing lean strategies, companies can enhance productivity, minimize waste, and create a more sustainable and profitable business model.

Clear Perspective

In addition to process improvement, manufacturing consultants provide an independent, fresh perspective on a company’s current situation. Often, internal teams are too close to the problems they face to see viable solutions clearly. It can be more difficult to see the broader picture when dealing with the day-to-day details of running the company.

An outside consultant brings a new set of eyes to evaluate operations, offering unbiased insights that can lead to significant improvements. Whether it’s enhancing product quality, increasing production efficiency, or addressing bottlenecks in the supply chain, a consultant’s objective viewpoint helps manufacturers achieve their desired outcomes more effectively.

Training Resource

Moreover, manufacturing consulting firms are equipped to provide workforce development training, a crucial aspect of modern manufacturing success. Qualified consultants can help manufacturers enhance employee job skills, improve production capabilities, and create opportunities for career advancement within the company.

This focus on workforce development not only boosts employee morale and retention but also ensures that the manufacturer’s workforce is equipped to handle evolving technologies and industry demands. Keeping employees skilled and trained adds to the company’s competitiveness as well.

In conclusion, hiring a manufacturing consulting company provides manufacturers with a wealth of expertise, tailored solutions, and the tools needed to drive growth, increase productivity, and be more competitive. With a focus on problem-solving, process improvement, and workforce development, manufacturing consultants play a pivotal role in helping companies achieve sustainable success in today’s dynamic manufacturing environment.

CONNSTEP is a manufacturing consultancy firm assisting small-to-medium manufacturers in the state of Connecticut. A member of the MEP National Network, we implement advanced business and technical solutions, along with workforce strategies, to facilitate growth, enhance profitability, and establish sustainable competitive advantages for organizations. For a no-cost consultation, visit connstep.org/contact/ .

Meet Our Team

Our multi-disciplinary team of experts takes a holistic approach by leveraging industry knowledge to offer tailored services for success.

Your Success, Our Mission.

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The Power of an Engaged, Continuous Improvement Culture in Manufacturing

Mon, 02 Dec 2024 15:24:24 GMT

The Power of an Engaged, Continuous Improvement Culture in Manufacturing

In today’s fast-paced and ever-evolving manufacturing landscape, companies must do more than just keep up with technological advancements; they must also foster an engaged workforce that drives innovation from within. A culture of continuous improvement—where employees are encouraged to participate, provide feedback, and help shape operations—is no longer a luxury, but a necessity. The benefits of such a culture are clear: increased productivity, enhanced efficiency, and improved safety. Yet, building and sustaining this culture presents significant challenges.

The Importance of Employee Engagement in Manufacturing

At its core, employee engagement is about creating a workplace where workers feel valued, heard, and invested in the success of the company. When employees are engaged, they are more likely to contribute ideas that can improve processes, reduce waste, and enhance safety measures. In an industry as process driven as manufacturing, even small improvements can lead to significant gains.

Workers on the shop floor often have the best understanding of daily operations, and their insights can identify inefficiencies or safety risks that might otherwise go unnoticed. A continuous improvement culture is also applicable to the administrative office area, purchasing, shipping, and supply chain management.

Moreover, an engaged workforce is typically more motivated and less likely to experience burnout, which can lead to higher retention rates and reduced turnover—factors that are critical in today’s labor-constrained environment.

Challenges in Creating a Continuous Improvement Culture

Despite the clear benefits, many manufacturing companies struggle to establish a culture of engagement and continuous improvement. Three major obstacles often stand in the way:

Lack of Training: Without proper training, employees may not feel confident or equipped to offer suggestions for improvement. A workforce that lacks the necessary skills or knowledge is less likely to engage in discussions about process improvements.
Poor Supervision and Leadership: Supervisors play a key role in fostering a culture of engagement, but without strong leadership, employees may feel that their contributions are not valued. When feedback is ignored or dismissed, it stifles motivation and creativity.
Resistance to Change: Many organizations, particularly in manufacturing, are accustomed to doing things “the way they’ve always been done.” Resistance to change from management or employees can derail even the best-intentioned efforts to implement continuous improvement.

Steps to Foster a Continuous Improvement Culture

To overcome these challenges and cultivate a culture of continuous improvement, manufacturing companies can take the following steps:

Invest in Training and Development: Continuous improvement starts with a skilled workforce. Offering regular training opportunities helps employees build the skills they need to contribute meaningfully. Training should also include soft skills like problem-solving and communication, which are critical for effective collaboration.
Empower Supervisors as Leaders: Supervisors should be more than just task managers; they should act as coaches and mentors. Companies must invest in leadership training that equips supervisors with the tools to actively engage employees, listen to their feedback, and act on their suggestions.
Encourage Open Communication: Create systems that allow employees to voice their ideas without fear of being ignored or criticized. This could involve regular feedback sessions, suggestion boxes, or employee-driven improvement committees. Ensuring that feedback is acted upon will reinforce the idea that employees’ contributions are valued.
Recognize and Reward Contributions: Publicly recognizing employees who contribute to process improvements helps reinforce a culture of engagement. Rewards don’t need to be extravagant, as simple acknowledgment and appreciation can go a long way.

Conclusion

A continuous improvement culture is essential for staying competitive in the modern manufacturing world. By investing in employee engagement, providing the necessary training, and fostering leadership that values feedback, manufacturers can create a thriving environment where productivity, efficiency, and safety are constantly evolving for the better. Building such a culture may take time, but the long-term benefits will be invaluable.

About CONNSTEP

CONNSTEP, Connecticut’s Manufacturing Extension Partnership (MEP) center, is your destination for training and upskilling manufacturing workers. At CONNSTEP, you’ll find an industry resource with the expertise to help develop and implement continuous improvement initiatives and lean best practices at your organization to benefit your business and its employees.

We offer a training program called Continuous Improvement Champion Certification (CICC), which is a comprehensive course covering the principles and practices needed to develop and sustain a Lean Manufacturing Enterprise, and advances employee continuous improvement skills and knowledge, leading to greater efficiency and productivity. Visit connstep.org/events/ to learn more.

Meet Our Team

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Past participants have made immediate contributions to their organizations. Click here to find out more.

Become a Continuous Improvement Champion

CONNSTEP Newsletter | December 2024

Mon, 02 Dec 2024 15:20:25 GMT

Recent Blogs

The Power of an Engaged, Continuous Improvement Culture in Manufacturing

Manufacturing.gov – Manufacturing Opportunities

Redesigned and reimagined by a collective team of industry experts at the Manufacturing Extension Partnership (MEP) National Network, the revamped website is the go-to venue to learn more about manufacturing in the USA.

Read this blog: https://www.connstep.org/news-media/manufacturing-gov-manufacturing-opportunities/

Upcoming Training & Events

Networking
Manufacturing Meetup: Innovation & Industry
Date: January 9, 2025
Time: 4:00-6:00 pm
Location: Connecticut Science Center

Training | Workshops
Supervisor Bootcamp
Date: Fridays, January 10-February 28
Time: 8 am-12 pm
Location: Cromwell

Training | Workshops
Continuous Improvement Champion Certification (CICC)-Spring 2025
Date: Tuesdays, March 11-May 20
Time: 8:30 am-4:30 pm
Location: Cromwell

Training | Workshops
Quality Essentials Program – Spring 2025
Date: Tuesdays, April 3-May 8
Time: 9 am-3 pm
Location: Cromwell

More Upcoming Events

8th Annual CT Supplier Growth Summit | Dec 4-5, 2024 | 8:00am-6:00 pm
Recruiting Post-Millennial Talent: CBIA Leadership Essentials | Wed, Dec 4, 2024 | 1:00-2:00 pm
HR Hotline Live: Paid Sick Leave Update | Thu, Dec 5, 2024 | 1:00 pm-2:00 pm

Manufacturing News

Manufacturing Resources

Capstone Projects

Ideally, it’s a win-win for the company and the students: the company has their problem solved and students get hands-on experience problem solving.

CONNSTEP will coordinate the connection between the manufacturer and the university, and assist the process as needed.

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

Additional Resources

Join the Newsletter Mailing List

Sign-up for our monthly newsletter below.

CONNSTEP Monthly Newsletter

Manufacturing.gov - Manufacturing Opportunities

Tue, 26 Nov 2024 15:31:03 GMT

Manufacturing.gov - Manufacturing Opportunities

This is the perfect time to introduce the newly improved Manufacturing.gov website. Redesigned and reimagined by a collective team of industry experts at the Manufacturing Extension Partnership (MEP) National Network, the revamped website is the go-to venue to learn more about manufacturing in the USA.

This powerful and useful “one stop shop” digital destination guides manufacturers, entrepreneurs, technologists, interagency partners and other key stakeholders through the U.S. Government’s efforts to drive manufacturing opportunities across the states.

Manufacturing.gov serves as the central hub for information on federal manufacturing programs, funding opportunities, and other valuable resources designed to help U.S. manufacturers gain industry knowledge, increase productivity, improve supply chains, and build a strong workforce.

Managed by the National Institute of Standards and Technology (NIST), the website offers descriptions and contact information for specific programs and funding, topic-focused pages, and announcements from the White House and agencies at the federal level relating to U.S. manufacturing.

You’ll also find reports released by various federal agencies on the manufacturing industry. These reports may discuss the overall state of manufacturing or specialized topics such as developing advanced manufacturing technologies, building a robust domestic supply chain, or in-space manufacturing initiatives.

Visit Manufacturing.gov to explore new opportunities and unlock the future of U.S. manufacturing.

Click here to visit: manufacturing.gov

Meet Our Team

Our multi-disciplinary team of experts takes a holistic approach by leveraging industry knowledge to offer tailored services for success.

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Serves as the primary hub for information about federal manufacturing programs, funding opportunities, and other valuable resources to help U.S. manufacturers increase productivity, improve supply chains, and find and retain a strong workforce.

Visit Manufacturing.gov

CONNSTEP Newsletter | November 2024

Mon, 04 Nov 2024 16:23:38 GMT

Manufacturer Future Growth Bolstered by Updated HR Policies

“Working with CONNSTEP and their HR partner has really helped us establish a solid foundation of formal employment policies and procedures as we position our company for future growth. We now have a better understanding of HR laws and greater knowledge and consistency on how to properly handle topics such as PTO and the Family and Medical Leave Act for both current employees and future hires.”

-Frank Wilde, Founder & CEO, Wilde Manufacturing

CONNSTEP’s Beatriz Gutierrez Visits the White House as Part of the Space Workforce Roundtable

“It was an honor to be chosen to attend this event and represent CONNSTEP. Connecticut’s aerospace manufacturers play a vital role in the space enterprise,”

-Beatriz Gutierrez.

https://www.connstep.org/news-media/inspiring-the-future-connsteps-beatriz-gutierrez-visits-the-white-house-as-part-of-the-space-workforce-roundtable/

Recent Blogs

CONNSTEP’s First Manufacturing Meetup a Sweet Success

As the frenzy of manufacturing month activities came to a close at the end of October, CONNSTEP hosted its inaugural Manufacturing Meetup, celebrating the state’s dynamic and valuable industry with a “Pumpkins & Pies” networking luncheon at Lyman Orchards in Middlefield, Connecticut.

Take A Behind the Scenes Look into Connecticut’s Manufacturing Excellence Aboard The 2024 Manufacturing Tour

The inaugural 2024 Manufacturing Tour was a one-of-a-kind experience that showcased Connecticut’s vibrant manufacturing community during a month already filled with exciting events.

Read this blog:
https://www.connstep.org/news-media/take-a-behind-the-scenes-look-into-connecticuts-manufacturing-excellence-aboard-the-2024-manufacturing-tour/

Upcoming Training & Events

Webinar Series
“Stay Competitive, Drive Revenue, Reduce Costs” Powered by CONNSTEP’s Technology Partners
Date: Thursday, November 21
Time: 11 am-12 noon
Location: Online

Training | Workshops
Supervisor Bootcamp
Date: Fridays, January 10-February 28
Time: 8 am-12 pm
Location: Cromwell

Training | Workshops
Continuous Improvement Champion Certification (CICC)-Spring 2025
Date: Tuesdays, March 11-May 20
Time: 8:30 am-4:30 pm
Location: Cromwell

Training | Workshops
Quality Essentials Program – Spring 2025
Date: Tuesdays, April 3-May 8
Time: 9 am-3 pm
Location: Cromwell

More Upcoming Events

Manufacturing & Mobility Digital LIVE Virtual Conference | Wed, Nov 6, 2024 | 5:50 am-12:35 pm
Building Supply Chain Resilience Speaker Panel Discussion | Wed, Nov 6, 2024 | 5:00 pm-7:00 pm
Connecticut Manufacturing Finance Opportunities | Tues, Nov 12, 2024 | 9:30am – 11:00am
2024 CBIA Annual Meeting & Reception | Wed, Nov 20, 2024 | 4:00 pm-8:00 pm
Complying with the EPA’s PFAS Reporting Rule Changes | Thu, Nov 21, 2024 | 1:00 pm-2:00 pm

Manufacturing News

Capstone Projects

Ideally, it’s a win-win for the company and the students: the company has their problem solved and students get hands-on experience problem solving.

CONNSTEP will coordinate the connection between the manufacturer and the university, and assist the process as needed.

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

Additional Resources

Manufacturing Resources

Sign-up for our monthly newsletter below.

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CONNSTEP Monthly Newsletter

CONNSTEP’s First Manufacturing Meetup a Sweet Success

Thu, 31 Oct 2024 16:54:17 GMT

As the frenzy of manufacturing month activities came to a close at the end of October, CONNSTEP hosted its inaugural Manufacturing Meetup , celebrating the state’s dynamic and valuable industry with a “Pumpkins & Pies” networking luncheon at Lyman Orchards in Middlefield, Connecticut.

A mix of manufacturers and industry vendors enjoyed a seasonally themed event complete with pumpkins, thanks to insurance agency Tzedakah House and its president and owner, Benjamin Klein, who generously supported the event as the Pumpkin sponsor. Attendees decorated their pumpkins with supplied decorations and savored legendary Lyman Orchards apple pie for dessert.

CONNSTEP President and CEO Beatriz Gutierrez welcomed guests to the luncheon, providing an overview of CONNSTEP, the Manufacturing Extension Partnership (MEP) center for the state of Connecticut. She described how the organization’s mission is to drive success for manufacturers in the state, measuring impacts of our efforts, and establishing the MEP center as trusted advisors.

Bernice Zampano , CONNSTEP’s program manager of CONNEX Connecticut, discussed the ongoing benefits of this supply chain solution and portal. CBIA Engagement Manager Rebecca Nolan highlighted their organization’s longstanding commitment to the state’s manufacturing industry, featuring a video from the recent statewide manufacturing bus tour that highlighted the innovation and integrity of products made here in Connecticut.

Ruan Marinho, Julie Pesce, and Paul Munko from digital marketing agency Develomark impressed the crowd at the event with an introduction to their soon-to-be-released Artificial Intelligence (AI) platform, SplashDash, showcasing AI analytics tools for competitive research and real-time insights that help manufacturers advance their business.

CONNSTEP’s marketing manager Tyler Scott rounded out the networking luncheon event reminding the crowd of the numerous resources and services available from the company. He also presented an introduction to the recently completed help page on the CONNSTEP website – connstep.help – which now features a text option for inquiries, in addition to calling, emailing, or completing an online form.

CONNSTEP recognizes that networking events like the “Pumpkins & Pies” luncheon provide an opportunity to connect and forge business relationships with colleagues in the manufacturing community of the state. Make sure to be on the lookout for the next Manufacturing Meetup event which will soon be announced by CONNSTEP. You won’t want to miss it!

Meet Our Team

Our multi-disciplinary team of experts takes a holistic approach by leveraging industry knowledge to offer tailored services for success.

Your Success, Our Mission.

Join us at our next Manufacturing Meetup! Learn more about them and mark your calendars for the next one.

Manufacturing Meetups

CONNSTEP Organizational Announcement

Tue, 29 Oct 2024 17:38:13 GMT

Meet the CONNSTEP Team Here

Beatriz Gutierrez , President and CEO of CONNSTEP announces that the organization has been undergoing a strategic change, “We are evolving our mission and our organization to better serve and meet the needs of Connecticut Manufacturers.”

As Connecticut’s leading manufacturing consulting firm for 30 years, CONNSTEP is committed to supporting the growth and success of manufacturers through customized solutions and unwavering support. Today we are sharing our renewed mission statement, and to deliver on that mission, we have made changes to our organizational structure and leadership team.

Your Success, Our Mission:

To help Connecticut manufacturers reach their goals by serving as their trusted advisor and resource for all things manufacturing.

New Team Members:

Chris Narowski , a seasoned professional with 15 years in energy efficiency, joins CONNSTEP as Smart Manufacturing Energy Leader, reporting to the Director, Service Delivery. Chris will manage the SMARTE grant and develop CONNSTEP’s energy and sustainability solutions and practice.
Amanda Beaulieu joins CONNSTEP as Marketing Consultant bringing over 20 years of journalism experience. She will coordinate and develop case studies for successful submission to NIST, manage media relations, and showcase CONNSTEP’s impact through compelling storytelling.
Ryan Stanley is the newest Associate Business Development Advisor to join CONNSTEP. He will support the Business Development Team identifying and pursuing growth opportunities for the organization. Ryan will help ensure the fulfillment of initiatives for existing clients and cultivate relationships with potential clients.

Promotions and Title Changes:

Bernice Zampano is promoted to Relationship Outreach Manager. She will focus on building relationships and generating leads.
Alex Roberts has accepted the full-time role of Systems Analyst. He will support data analytics and cybersecurity initiatives.
Anthony DiCioccio transitions to a new role as Service Strategy Consultant, reporting to Barbara Fernandez. Anthony will continue to manage Industry I4.0 initiatives.
Barbara Fernandez transitions to Director, Service Strategy. She will lead the development and review of CONNSTEP’s service portfolio.
Robert Blakey’s title changes to Chief Financial Officer in recognition of his strategic financial leadership and fiduciary responsibility to the organization.
Caroline Bernardoni’s title changes to Director, Human Resources, in recognition of the increased scope of responsibility in supporting the strategic planning process and development of KPI metrics.
Kelly Tubridy’s title changes to Chief Executive Administrator in recognition of her expanded role supporting the leadership team and Board of Directors.

Meet Our Team

Our multi-disciplinary team of experts takes a holistic approach by leveraging industry knowledge to offer tailored services for success.

Your Success, Our Mission.

Do you know what CONNSTEP stands for? View this video to find out!

[YouTube Video] What is CONNSTEP?

Inspiring the Future: CONNSTEP’s Beatriz Gutierrez Visits the White House as Part of the Space Workforce Roundtable

Tue, 08 Oct 2024 17:03:04 GMT

Meet the CONNSTEP Team Here

Last week, CONNSTEP President & CEO Beatriz Gutierrez had the distinct pleasure of being invited to the White House to participate in the Space Workforce Roundtable.

Hosted by the National Space Council, Gutierrez traveled to Washington, D.C., joining other MEP center leaders and stakeholders from across the space enterprise in a collaborative effort to discuss how best to inspire, prepare, and employ future generations in this critical sector.

“It was an honor to be chosen to attend this event and represent CONNSTEP. Connecticut’s aerospace manufacturers play a vital role in the space enterprise,” said Gutierrez.

The National Space Council, chaired by Vice President Kamala Harris, is the White House policy council responsible for ensuring the United States capitalizes on the rich opportunities presented by our nation’s space activities.

Dr. Quincy Brown, Director of Space STEM and Workforce Policy, National Space Council, welcomed the invitees. Opening remarks were given by Pam Melroy, NASA Deputy Administrator, and Chirag Parihk, NSpC Executive Secretary and Deputy Assistant to the President.

Several members of the Space Workforce Coalition , a national Community of Practice created to address both current and future needs of the space sector, discussed takeaways from two years of the coalition’s existence.

Coalition members who spoke included Karin Hoffman, Director of Workforce Integration for Space Florida and Jess Kostelnik, Senior Policy Advisor-Workforce for the Colorado Governor’s Office.

Attendees participated in meaningful conversation and shared valuable information about how to excite and engage the future Space STEM workforce through the Space4All campaign . A public-private partnership aimed at promoting awareness, inclusion, and future career opportunities in space, Space4All is comprised of community organizations, corporations, government, and academic institutions working together with leaders in the space industry.

Meet Our Team

Our multi-disciplinary team of experts takes a holistic approach by leveraging industry knowledge to offer tailored services for success.

Your Success, Our Mission.

Do you know what CONNSTEP stands for? View this video to find out!

[YouTube Video] What is CONNSTEP?

CONNSTEP Announces New Executive Hire

Sun, 06 Oct 2024 17:10:20 GMT

By: Amanda Beaulieu

CONNSTEP is pleased to announce the appointment of Rick Mullins as Director of Service Delivery, effective October 7, 2024.

In this role, Rick will lead the delivery of grants, projects, and training programs. He will create and implement program strategies for service delivery and direct a team of consultants responsible for delivering cybersecurity, continuous improvement, quality, energy and sustainability, workforce development, environment health & safety, and advanced technology solutions to CONNSTEP’s clients.

“I’m delighted to have Rick join CONNSTEP’s leadership team,” said Beatriz Gutierrez, CONNSTEP President and CEO.

“Rick’s extensive professional experience and strong commitment to supporting Connecticut’s manufacturing ecosystem will be a great asset for our organization.”

Rick has been a driving force in the business community, with local and global impacts for many years. His experience spans public and private higher education and other nonprofit sectors.

He has a wealth of experience in advanced technology, aerospace manufacturing, defense, financial services, and healthcare markets. An enthusiastic and passionate leader, Rick’s innovative ideas yield significant results in strategy implementation and investor relations.

“I am thrilled to join CONNSTEP and collaborate with the team to further support and strengthen our manufacturing community,” said Mullins.

“I look forward to building relationships with our clients and delivering solutions that drive customer success.”

Rick has diverse functional expertise in business development, workforce development, operations, supply chain management, business incubation, productivity, process improvement, and risk management.

“Rick has long been a champion for small and medium-sized manufacturers,” said CBIA President and CEO Chris DiPentima.

“His background, network, and understanding of Connecticut manufacturing will be a great addition in supporting CONNSTEP’s mission and Connecticut’s manufacturers.”

Rick’s commitment to community involvement is evident through his active participation in various local organizations and networking affiliates. He served as a past president of the Boys & Girls Club of New Britain. Inc. Board of Directors. In addition, he has been recognized for his distinguished work within the community.

CONNSTEP looks forward to the many positive contributions Rick will make in this new role. We are confident that Rick will provide significant value to our customers.

Meet Our Team

Our multi-disciplinary team of experts takes a holistic approach by leveraging industry knowledge to offer tailored services for success.

Your Success, Our Mission.

Do you know what CONNSTEP stands for? View this video to find out!

[YouTube Video] What is CONNSTEP?

CONNSTEP Partners With Adia Connecting Connecticut Manufacturers to 3D Printing Technology

Sun, 06 Oct 2024 17:08:09 GMT

Meet the CONNSTEP Team Here

CONNSTEP is excited to announce a new partnership with Adia Inc. , New England’s leading 3D printing solutions provider.

Through this collaboration, Adia and CONNSTEP will support Connecticut’s small and medium-sized manufacturers looking to explore the benefits of additive manufacturing to strengthen their technical and operational expertise.

“The team at Adia is excited to be partnering with CONNSTEP to discover additive manufacturing integration efforts for Connecticut businesses,” said Nick Gondek, Director of Additive Manufacturing and Principal of Adia.

Additive manufacturing, or 3D printing, is transforming the manufacturing industry. The advanced technology used in everything from aerospace to the medical field, is endlessly customizable. Capable of creating complex geometries, it also allows for rapid prototyping as well as on-demand production, reduces waste, and can simplify the supply chain process.

Since 2010, Cromwell-based Adia has focused on accelerating the adoption of additive manufacturing through their wide range of 3D printing services. Their expert team of engineers and advisers guides businesses through the additive manufacturing landscape, taking an all-encompassing approach to create unique solutions leading to the best possible results.

“CONNSTEP works with businesses across Connecticut to find opportunities for top-line growth and bottom-line improvements, and this aligns well with our focus of finding additive manufacturing application opportunities for businesses that achieves the same goals,” said Gondek.

From end-to-end consulting services and comprehensive training to service and the provision of cutting-edge equipment, software, and materials, Adia uses their unmatched expertise to create customized, strategic additive integration plans.

“Partnering with Adia will allow CONNSTEP to bring a significant new benefit to the market,” said Beatriz Gutierrez, CONNSTEP President and CEO.

“By adopting additive technology, Connecticut small and medium-sized manufacturers can position themselves at the forefront of innovation and competitiveness.”

Meet Our Team

Our multi-disciplinary team of experts takes a holistic approach by leveraging industry knowledge to offer tailored services for success.

Your Success, Our Mission.

Do you know what CONNSTEP stands for? View this video to find out!

[YouTube Video] What is CONNSTEP?

Connecticut 2024 Manufacturing Summit

Wed, 02 Oct 2024 17:18:43 GMT

The 2024 edition of the Connecticut Manufacturing Summit was a resounding success. Produced in collaboration with the Connecticut Office of Manufacturing, American Manufacturing Hall of Fame, CCAT, and CBIA, the event attracted just over 1,000 businesspeople from across the state. It featured the release of the 2024 Connecticut Manufacturing Report and a panel of manufacturing leaders discussing how to manage today’s economic and operational challenges.

Keynote speaker Ken Gronbach, a renowned demographer, futurist, and author, captivated the audience with his presentation, “Demographic Strategies for Uncertain Times.” His talk focused on forecasting markets and societal trends based on demographic research. Following him, Ben Armstrong, Executive Director of MIT’s Industrial Performance Center, discussed the impact of manufacturing automation, the challenges facing small and medium manufacturers, and recommended areas for investment.

Connecticut Manufacturing Report

The Connecticut Manufacturing Summit has become the platform for releasing and discussing the Connecticut Manufacturing Report, reviewing its findings and sharing best practices for navigating challenges and leveraging opportunities. It has also served to acknowledge and honor manufacturers in the state who have excelled in their industry.

This year’s report revealed that 80% of surveyed manufacturers still find it difficult to recruit and retain workers, a trend that has persisted for the past few years. Additionally, 87% noted rising business costs. As of August 2024, Connecticut manufacturers employed 157,800 people, representing 10.7% of the state’s total private-sector employment.

State Manufacturer Awards

CBIA President & CEO Chris DiPentima announced General Dynamics Electric Boat Virginia Class submarine as the winner of the inaugural “ Coolest Thing Made in Connecticut ” challenge, showcasing manufacturing excellence in the state, and narrowly beating out the Lockheed Sikorsky Black Hawk helicopter by 150 votes.

CONNSTEP President & CEO Beatriz Gutierrez presented the 2024 Technology Innovation Award to Phoenix Manufacturing of Enfield, CT. This award recognizes small-to-medium Connecticut manufacturers that have demonstrated leadership in the development and adoption of innovative technologies that strengthen supply chains in the state. Phoenix, a woman-owned precision machined components manufacturer founded in 1989, has become a leading supplier to the aerospace industry. Their commitment to customer service is evident in their $5 million investment in new capital equipment over the past three years.

ReadyCT Executive Director Shannon Marimón presented the Pathway Award for Excellence in Manufacturing to Michael Joyce , a technology teacher at Tourtellotte Memorial High School in Thompson, CT. Joyce was recognized for modernizing instruction and establishing a mentorship program with professional welders from Electric Boat, which significantly increased student participation in welding programs.

ReadyCT also honored Paul Pelletier, an aerospace and manufacturing teacher at Middletown High School, with a posthumous award. Pelletier, who passed away in a plane crash on September 8, 2024, was praised for teaching his students about FAA Part 107, introducing them to the certification process to become an operator to fly drones.

The summit also celebrated significant achievements by state manufacturers with nearly two dozen companies presented with the U.S. Commercial Service’s Connecticut District Export Council Award.

Honoring Past Award Recipients

Last year, the U.S. Commercial Service and Connecticut District Export Council recognized outstanding contributors to state manufacturing exports. Goodway Technologies in Stamford, a recipient of the Connecticut District Export Award, was celebrated for its successful export strategies and commitment to global business growth.

In 2022, Amodex Products president Beverlee Dacey, a second-generation family business owner, accepted the Small Business New to Market Export award, recognizing her leadership in expanding the Bridgeport-based company’s exports to more countries, having recently added Panama, Canada, and Dubai to its list of export markets.

That same year, Beta Shim , a CNC manufacturing company with expertise in metal stamping and sheet metal fabrication for military and industrial sectors, received the Technology Innovation Award. With locations in Shelton and Trumbull, the company has a strong heritage of manufacturing shims and flat pattern sheet metal, achieving industry-leading quality levels.

Joseph Farrah, a teacher at Hartford Public High School, won the 2023 Pathway Award for Excellence in Manufacturing, recognizing his passion for guiding students through the Engineering and Green Technology Pathway. In 2022, the award went to Jaime Rechenberg, STEM supervisor at Bristol Public Schools, for her contributions to manufacturing education.

Closing Remarks

Reflecting on the achievements and progress of Connecticut’s manufacturing industry, CBIA’s DiPentima stated, “It’s critical that we work together to find solutions that create sustained economic growth, improve manufacturing career pathways and make Connecticut a more attractive and affordable place to live and work.”

CONNSTEP’s Gutierrez echoed his sentiments, highlighting the innovative spirit of Connecticut manufacturers and their significant impact across industries throughout the state, and CONNSTEP’s mission to be a dedicated resource for manufacturers to continue their success.

CONNSTEP Newsletter | October 2024

Mon, 30 Sep 2024 17:29:10 GMT

Your Success, Our Mission.

Beatriz Gutierrez, President and CEO of CONNSTEP announces that the organization has been undergoing a strategic change, “We are evolving our mission and our organization to better serve and meet the needs of Connecticut Manufacturers.” Our Mission: To help Connecticut manufacturers reach their goals by serving as their trusted advisor and resource for all things manufacturing.

About CONNSTEP

Recent Blogs

Celebrating Manufacturing Excellence: The Coolest Thing Made in Connecticut

Starting with 16 things made by Connecticut manufacturers, companies competed head-to-head to find the ultimate Coolest Thing Made in Connecticut in 2024, which will be announced at the Connecticut Manufacturing Summit Oct. 2, 2024.

Breaking Barriers: USS New Jersey Makes Navy History

(Hartford, CT, September 19, 2024) September 15th marked a historic milestone for the U.S. Navy and Groton-based General Dynamics Electric Boat, as the USS New Jersey, the first-ever gender-integrated submarine, was commissioned into the naval fleet.

Upcoming Training & Events

Networking
Manufacturing Happy Hour: Hartford County
Date: Tuesday, October 8
Time: 4-6 pm
Location: Manchester

Networking
Manufacturing Happy Hour: Fairfield County
Date: Wednesday, October 16
Time: 4-6 pm
Location: Stratford

Webinar Series:
CMMC Scoping 101 with Anna Mumford
Date: Thursday, October 17
Time: 11:15 am-12 noon
Location: Online

Networking | Lunch & Activity
Manufacturing Meetup: Pumpkins & Pies Luncheon
Date: Tuesday, October 29
Time: 11 am-2 pm
Location: Middlefield

Training | Workshops
Supervisor Bootcamp
Date: Fridays, January 10-February 28
Time: 8 am-12 pm
Location: Cromwell

Training | Workshops
Continuous Improvement Champion Certification (CICC)-Spring 2025
Date: Tuesdays, March 11-May 20
Time: 8:30 am-4:30 pm
Location: Cromwell

Training | Workshops
Quality Essentials Program – Spring 2025
Date: Tuesdays, April 3-May 8
Time: 9 am-3 pm
Location: Cromwell

More Upcoming Events

2024 Connecticut Manufacturing Summit | Wed, Oct 02, 2024 | 8:30am – 4:30pm
Manufacturing Day | October 4th
ManufactureCT Annual Celebration | October 4th | 5 pm-9 pm
Women in Manufacturing (WiM) SUMMIT | October 6-9
Understanding Renewable Energy: Savings Versus Costs | Tues, Oct 08, 2024 | 1:00pm – 2:00pm
ACM’s Aerospace Alley® Future Workforce Opportunities Fair & Tradeshow | October 31st | 8 am-4:30 pm
Connecticut Manufacturing Finance Opportunities | Tues, Nov 12, 2024 | 9:30am – 11:00am

Manufacturing News

Manufacturing Resources

Capstone Projects

Ideally, it’s a win-win for the company and the students: the company has their problem solved and students get hands-on experience problem solving.

CONNSTEP will coordinate the connection between the manufacturer and the university, and assist the process as needed.

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

Additional Resources

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CONNSTEP Monthly Newsletter

CT Manufacturing Careers Roadshow Visits Norwich CT

Mon, 30 Sep 2024 17:23:44 GMT

The CT Manufacturing Careers Roadshow stopped at Dodd Stadium in Norwich on Thursday, September 26, welcoming students, educators, and manufacturers for a morning of career exploration.

Over 700 area students in grades 7-12 had the opportunity to connect with dozens of local manufacturers from across eastern Connecticut.

From robotics and submarine construction to 3D printing and CNC machining, students could explore the wide variety of exciting careers available in Connecticut’s manufacturing industry.

Companies offered hands-on activities at different innovation stations where students built miniature windmills, learned how to construct safety netting, and even tested laser technology.

Students participated in a scavenger hunt for prizes that guided them to interactions with different manufacturers.

Virtual reality headsets provided career simulation experiences helping spark excitement for the next generation of manufacturers.

According to ReadyCT, the CT Manufacturing Careers Roadshow Series is designed to raise awareness and pique interest in the broad opportunities and well-paying, interesting, and modern careers available in Connecticut manufacturing.

CONNSTEP affiliate ReadyCT partnered with the GNACC Education and Workforce Development Committee, Eastern Connecticut Workforce Investment Board , Eastern Advanced Manufacturing Alliance , and Greater Norwich Chamber of Commerce for the Roadshow event. CONNSTEP was a proud sponsor.

There is one more stop on the 2024 Roadshow calendar. On October 31, ACM’s Aerospace Alley Future Workforce Opportunities Fair will be held at the Connecticut Convention Center. Over 90 local aerospace firms will be on hand to engage students about the incredible opportunities available in the aerospace industry.

CONNSTEP Newsletter | September 2024

Sun, 08 Sep 2024 17:44:24 GMT

Recent Case Studies

First Pass Yield Improvement Creates Dramatic Reduction in Lead Time

“The biggest lesson we learned from this project is the importance of employee engagement. As more employees became involved, they saw the benefits of the improvements firsthand. They enjoyed sharing ideas, being heard, and seeing their suggestions implemented. It was a rewarding experience for everyone.”
Rich Merlino, President & CEO, Modelcraft Company

Read this Case Study: https://www.connstep.org/case-study/first-pass-yield-improvement-creates-dramatic-reduction-in-lead-time/

Value Stream Mapping Leads to Medical Device FDA Success

“CONNSTEP opened up our eyes to see where we can assign the UDI in the manufacturing process and get it to the finished level. The Value Stream Mapping clarified the process for us to help meet UDI requirements mandated by the FDA. It all resulted in being able to make appropriate investments and implement a successful UDI system.”

Zack Curello – Vice President/General Manager Ivy Biomedical Systems

Read this Case Study: https://www.connstep.org/case-study/value-stream-mapping-leads-medical-device-fda-success/

Recent Blogs

Celebrating Manufacturing Excellence: The Coolest Thing Made in Connecticut

(Hartford, CT, September 6, 2024) – It is a first-of-its-kind competition for Connecticut – the Coolest Thing Made in Connecticut.

Celebrating the excellence of the state’s manufacturing industry, this single-elimination bracket-style tournament lets the public vote on their favorite Connecticut-made products.

Round 2: Coolest Thing Made in Connecticut

What started with 16 incredible Connecticut-made products is now down to the final eight. The second round of voting is underway to find the Coolest Thing Made in Connecticut.

Read this blog: https://www.cbia.com/news/manufacturing/round-2-coolest-thing-made-in-connecticut

Upcoming Training & Events

Training
Continuous Improvement Champion Certification (CICC)-Fall

Date: Tuesdays, September 10-December 3

Time: 8:30 am-4:30 pm

Location: Hartford, CT

Training
Supervisor Bootcamp-Fall

Date: Thursdays, September 13-November 8

Time: 8:30 am-12 noon

Location: Bristol, CT

Training
Continuous Improvement Champion Certification (CICC)-Spring

Date: Tuesdays, March 11-May 20

Time: 8:30 am-4:30 pm

Location: Cromwell, CT

More Upcoming Events

New England Lean Summit | September 12-13 | 7 am-3 pm
CT Manufacturing Careers Roadshow ’24 Series | September 26th | 9 am-12 noon
Tech Talent Ecosystem Summit | Thursday, September 19th | 9 am-3:30 pm
HR Hotline Live: Connecticut’s New Paid Sick Leave Law | Wednesday, September 25th | 1 pm-2 pm
2024 Connecticut Manufacturing Summit | October 2nd | 8:30 am-4:30 pm
Manufacturing Day | October 4th
ManufactureCT Annual Celebration | October 4th | 5 pm-9 pm
Women in Manufacturing (WiM) SUMMIT | October 6-9
ACM’s Aerospace Alley® Future Workforce Opportunities Fair & Tradeshow | October 31st | 8 am-4:30 pm

Manufacturing News

Manufacturing Resources

Capstone Projects

Ideally, it’s a win-win for the company and the students: the company has their problem solved and students get hands-on experience problem solving.

CONNSTEP will coordinate the connection between the manufacturer and the university, and assist the process as needed.

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

Additional Resources

Sign-up for our monthly newsletter below.

Join the Newsletter Mailing List

CONNSTEP Monthly Newsletter

Mastering Inventory Management: Techniques and Strategies for Manufacturers

Wed, 31 Jul 2024 18:05:03 GMT

In the manufacturing industry, effective inventory management translates to maintaining the heartbeat of the operation. It’s not merely about having the right materials at hand, it’s about orchestrating a system of processes to optimize resources, minimize waste, and maximize efficiency. In this blog, we delve into the art of mastering manufacturing inventory management, exploring techniques and strategies essential for success.

Accurate Forecasting

Central to efficient inventory management is accurate forecasting. Manufacturers must do their best to anticipate demand fluctuations, market trends, and seasonal variations in order to prevent stockouts or excess inventory. Leveraging advanced forecasting tools and data analytics can provide valuable insights, enabling proactive decision-making and more precise inventory planning.

Lean Mindset

Another cornerstone of effective inventory management is establishing a lean manufacturing culture. By embracing lean principles such as just-in-time (JIT) manufacturing and continuous improvement, organizations can streamline operations, reduce carrying costs, and enhance overall productivity. Minimizing inventory levels while ensuring timely replenishment may be a challenge if you face supply chain constraints, but mitigating supply chain issues can help manufacturers optimize cash flow and maintain competitive agility for their business.

Inventory Control Measures

Implementing robust inventory control measures is imperative to prevent inventory inaccuracies and discrepancies. Utilizing barcode scanning, RFID technology, and automated inventory tracking systems can enhance visibility and transparency across the supply chain, facilitating real-time monitoring and inventory optimization. Conducting stringent inventory audits and creating cycle counting procedures can work to identify discrepancies promptly and minimize potential risks.

Supplier Collaboration

Collaboration with suppliers is another key aspect of effective inventory management. Building strategic partnerships with reliable suppliers can ensure timely deliveries, quality assurance, and cost efficiency. Establishing vendor-managed inventory (VMI) programs can further streamline replenishment processes and reduce inventory holding costs, fostering mutual benefits for both manufacturers and suppliers.

Industry 4.0 Technologies

The adoption of digitalization and Industry 4.0 technologies can dramatically enhance inventory management practices. The integration of IoT sensors, AI-driven predictive analytics, and cloud-based inventory management platforms can empower manufacturers with actionable insights and predictive capabilities, helping them become more proactive with their decision-making and able to respond more quickly to market dynamics.

Evaluate and Optimize

Continuous evaluation and optimization are essential for maintaining peak performance in inventory management. Manufacturers should regularly assess key performance indicators (KPIs) such as inventory turnover ratio, fill rate, and order cycle time to identify areas for improvement and drive operational excellence. By fostering a culture of continuous learning and adaptation, manufacturers can stay ahead of the curve and thrive in today’s competitive landscape.

Conclusion

Mastering manufacturing inventory management requires a strategic blend of foresight, technology adoption, and innovation. By implementing digitization and advanced technologies, instilling lean principles, and fostering collaborative partnerships, manufacturers can unlock new levels of efficiency, resilience, and competitiveness in the evolving world of manufacturing. Applying effective inventory management controls to your organization will ensure the sustained success of your business for years to come.

Continuous Improvement Champion Certification (CICC)

This course provides comprehensive exposure to the principles and practices needed to develop and sustain a Lean Enterprise. You will receive immediate reinforcement of the classroom learning by applying your training to a real-life project within your organization.

[Poster] 5S Guide

Often basic housekeeping is overlooked in favor of “productivity.” This is a common practice but one that costs you over the long run. Putting a basic 5S program in place is inexpensive and yields a great return on your (small) investment.

By enrolling an employee in CONNSTEP’s CICC program, the company streamlined their workflow, resulting in significant operational gains and reduced lead times, ultimately enhancing their overall performance

[Case Study] Improvement to Process Flow Increases Productivity

CONNSTEP Newsletter | August 2024

Wed, 31 Jul 2024 17:55:28 GMT

Recent Case Studies

First Pass Yield Improvement Creates Dramatic Reduction in Lead Time

Read this Case Study: https://www.connstep.org/case-study/first-pass-yield-improvement-creates-dramatic-reduction-in-lead-time/

Elevated Supervisory Skills Add to Performance & Productivity

“After the CONNSTEP training, I felt that each employee strengthened their capability as a supervisor. It shows in their confidence to lead others and the processes they have implemented in their departments. It also sends a message to everyone in the company that we care about your career growth and will keep supporting you in your roles.”
Katty Garcia, General Manager, Siftex Equipment Company

Read this Case Study: https://www.connstep.org/case-study/elevated-supervisory-skills-add-to-performance-productivity/

Recent Blogs

Mastering Inventory Management: Techniques and Strategies for Manufacturers

Read this Blog: https://www.connstep.org/supply-chain/mastering-inventory-management-techniques-and-strategies-for-manufacturers/

CONNSTEP Spring 2024 CICC Program Wraps Up with Dynamic Presentations

CONNSTEP recently concluded its successful Continuous Improvement Champion Certification (CICC) program for Spring 2024. Manufacturers from across Connecticut sent representatives from their companies to learn about Lean manufacturing principles and practices.

Read this Blog: https://www.connstep.org/continuous-improvement/connstep-spring-2024-cicc-program-wraps-up-with-dynamic-presentations/

Upcoming Training & Events

Training
CMMC Bootcamp: Mastering the CMMC Requirements Implementation

Date: Wednesdays, August 28th-September 25

Time: 8:00 am-12 noon

Location: Hartford, CT

Training
Continuous Improvement Champion Certification (CICC)-Fall

Date: Tuesdays, September 10-December 12

Time: 8:30 am-4:30 pm

Location: Cromwell, CT

Training
Supervisor Bootcamp-Fall

Date: Thursdays, September 13-November 8

Time: 8:30 am-12 noon

Location: Bristol, CT

Training
Continuous Improvement Champion Certification (CICC)-Spring

Date: Tuesdays, March 11-May 20

Time: 8:30 am-4:30 pm

Location: Cromwell, CT

More Upcoming Events

The Connecticut Economy | Wednesday, September 4th | 8:30 am-11:30 am
CT Manufacturing Careers Roadshow ’24 Series | September 26th | 9 am-12 noon
Tech Talent Ecosystem Summit | Thursday, September 19th | 9 am-3:30 pm
HR Hotline Live: Connecticut’s New Paid Sick Leave Law | Wednesday, September 25th | 1 pm-2 pm

Manufacturing News

NIST Announces Funding Opportunity for AI-Focused Manufacturing USA Institute
IDEX Acquires Mott Corporation
CBIA BizCast: ‘Joy on a Fork’ (Part 1)
How Nestlé generated $200M in additional revenue by looking within
Department of Commerce Announces New Guidance, Tools 270 Days Following President Biden’s Executive Order on AI
New Podcast Promotes Women in Manufacturing
Priorities for Manufacturers Adapting to the New Economic Environment
5 Steps to Prepare Your Organization for an Industry 4.0 Transformatio n

Manufacturing Resources

Capstone Projects

Ideally, it’s a win-win for the company and the students: the company has their problem solved and students get hands-on experience problem solving.

CONNSTEP will coordinate the connection between the manufacturer and the university, and assist the process as needed.

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

Additional Resources

Sign-up for our monthly newsletter below.

Join the Newsletter Mailing List

CONNSTEP Monthly Newsletter

Misconceptions of Lean Manufacturing and Continuous Improvement

Sun, 30 Jun 2024 18:18:58 GMT

Lean principles and Continuous Improvement methodologies have garnered significant attention in manufacturing for their potential to optimize processes, reduce waste, and enhance efficiency. However, various misconceptions often cloud the understanding and implementation of these strategies. Let’s explore some of these misunderstandings and uncover the realities of Lean Manufacturing and Continuous Improvement.

Common Misconceptions

One common misconception is that Lean Manufacturing is solely about cutting costs and reducing workforce. While it’s true that Lean methodologies aim to streamline operations and eliminate waste, their primary focus lies in delivering value to customers efficiently.

In their book “Lean Thinking,” authors James P. Womack and Daniel T. Jones emphasize that Lean is about maximizing customer value while minimizing waste across entire value streams. It’s a holistic approach that involves every aspect of the organization, from the production floor to administrative services, with the goal of enhancing quality and responsiveness.

Another myth is that Continuous Improvement is a one-time initiative rather than an ongoing journey. Continuous Improvement is actually deeply ingrained in the culture of Lean organizations. It’s not about just implementing a set of tools and techniques once and then moving on. Instead, it’s a mindset and commitment that encourages employees at all levels to continually seek better ways of doing things, fostering a culture of innovation and adaptability.

Kaizen is a Japanese term meaning change for the better or continuous improvement. It is a philosophy that suggests making small, incremental changes that can add up to significant improvements over time.

Size Does Not Matter

Some may perceive Lean Manufacturing as applicable only to large-scale production facilities, overlooking its relevance to various industries and even small businesses. In reality, Lean principles can be tailored and applied across diverse sectors beyond manufacturing, including healthcare, service industries, and even startups.

Whether it’s reducing lead times in a hospital or streamlining processes in a software development company, the core concepts of Lean—such as identifying value, mapping value streams, and striving for perfection—are universally applicable.

The perception that Lean Manufacturing and Continuous Improvement are rigid frameworks that stifle creativity and innovation could not be further from the truth. On the contrary, these methodologies provide a structured approach that empowers employees to innovate within defined parameters in an organization.

By standardizing processes and eliminating non-value-added activities, Lean frees up resources and time for creative problem-solving and experimentation. It’s about fostering a culture where employees are encouraged to suggest improvements and offer new ideas, driving innovation from the bottom up.

Employment/Workforce Pipeline

Despite a healthy workforce across all three manufacturing sectors, Connecticut has experienced a slight decline in employment in two of the sectors. In aerospace, employment in Connecticut declined by less than half of 1% compared to national growth of just over 1%.

Employment in medical devices in the state dropped just over 1.5% compared to the nationwide decline of just under half of 1%. Conversely, shipbuilding in Connecticut experienced a 4% increase in employment compared to 2% nationally, largely driven by submarine production and maintenance.

Aging and retirement are also concerns for Connecticut manufacturers including those evaluated for the assessment. The good news is that despite the aging of the state’s supplier workforce, new talent continues to enter the aerospace, shipbuilding, and medical devices industries.

Conclusion

Debunking these misconceptions is crucial for organizations aspiring to successfully adopt Lean Manufacturing and Continuous Improvement. By recognizing Lean as a customer-centric approach, understanding Continuous Improvement as an ongoing journey, acknowledging its versatility across industries, and embracing it as a catalyst for innovation, businesses can harness the full potential of these methodologies to achieve sustainable growth and competitive advantage.

Continuous Improvement Champion Certification (CICC)

[Poster] 5S Guide

[Case Study] Improvement to Process Flow Increases Productivity

CONNSTEP Newsletter | July 2024

Sun, 30 Jun 2024 18:08:22 GMT

Recent Case Studies

Elevated Supervisory Skills Add to Performance & Productivity

“After the CONNSTEP training, I felt that each employee strengthened their capability as a supervisor. It shows in their confidence to lead others and the processes they have implemented in their departments. It also sends a message to everyone in the company that we care about your career growth and will keep supporting you in your roles.” Katty Garcia, General Manager, Siftex Equipment Company

Read this Case Study: https://www.connstep.org/case-study/elevated-supervisory-skills-add-to-performance-productivity/

First Pass Yield Improvement Creates Dramatic Reduction in Lead Time

“Following guidance from my CONNSTEP mentor on this CICC project, I was able to lay out problems visually and uncover issues that were normally hidden. In the end, we reached our goal of having an RMA process that reduces the amount of returns coming back. And it freed up some of my time to apply to new projects.” Simon Bertocci, Manufacturing Engineer, Carlyle Johnson Machine Co.

Read this Case Study: https://www.connstep.org/case-study/first-pass-yield-improvement-creates-dramatic-reduction-in-lead-time/

Recent Blogs

Misconceptions of Lean Manufacturing and Continuous Improvement

Read this Blog: https://www.connstep.org/continuous-improvement/misconceptions-of-lean-manufacturing-and-continuous-improvement /

CONNSTEP Spring 2024 CICC Program Wraps Up with Dynamic Presentations

Read this Blog: https://www.connstep.org/continuous-improvement/connstep-spring-2024-cicc-program-wraps-up-with-dynamic-presentations/

Upcoming Training & Events

Training
CMMC Bootcamp: Mastering the CMMC Requirements Implementation

Date: Wednesdays, August 28th-September 25

Time: 8:00 am-12 noon

Location: Hartford, CT

View Training

Training
Continuous Improvement Champion Certification (CICC)-Fall

Date: Tuesdays, September 10-December 12

Time: 8:30 am-4:30 pm

Location: Cromwell, CT

View Training

More Upcoming Events

Manufacturing News

New Podcast Promotes Women in Manufacturing
How AI Can Address Manufacturing Supply Chain Issues
Lockheed Martin Names Rich Benton as Sikorsky Head
Priorities for Manufacturers Adapting to the New Economic Environment
CBIA BizCast: Early Success for Connecticut Bagel Business
5 Steps to Prepare Your Organization for an Industry 4.0 Transformation

Manufacturing Resources

Capstone Projects

Ideally, it’s a win-win for the company and the students: the company has their problem solved and students get hands-on experience problem solving.

CONNSTEP will coordinate the connection between the manufacturer and the university, and assist the process as needed.

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

Additional Resources

Sign-up for our monthly newsletter below.

Join the Newsletter Mailing List

CONNSTEP Monthly Newsletter

CONNSTEP Spring 2024 CICC Program Wraps Up with Dynamic Presentations

Sun, 23 Jun 2024 18:26:56 GMT

During the program, participants applied the tools and techniques they mastered from their CICC coursework to real projects, mentored by CONNSTEP, within their respective organizations. At the culmination of the classes, each participant delivered a detailed presentation outlining the initiation and progress of their projects to the group.

Results to date from many of the projects highlighted the identification and elimination of waste in production flow, improvements in lead and cycle times, Work in Progress (WIP), and overall quality enhancements at their facilities. They also showcased efficiencies and cost savings resulting from the implementation of Lean practices studied during their classroom sessions.

CICC project presentations were conducted by participants representing the following manufacturing companies:

Accu-Time Systems
Project: Shipping Department Optimization
CICC attendee: Alex Romero
AVNA
Project: Inventory Accuracy
CICC attendees: Bruce Thivierge
Cambridge Specialty Company
Project: Lead Time Reduction Housing Pump Flap
CICC attendee: Aiden Coyle
E.A. Patten Company
Project: Two-Point Tube Assembly Lead Time & Capacity Improvement
CICC attendee: Matt McGrath, Tyler Olsen
EDCO Engineering
Project: TBA Process Evaluation
CICC attendee: Colin Asklar
Goodway Technologies
Project: Inventory Accuracy and Workflow Improvement in Shipping
CICC attendee: Miguel Marte
Logo Sportswear
Project: Shipping & Receiving Opportunities
CICC attendee: Tafari Whittingham
Micro Precision
Project: Hydraulic Cylinder Production and Quality Improvement
CICC attendee: Jason Dodge, John Dybowski
RBC Bearings
Project: Rod End Product On-Time Delivery
CICC attendee: Adam Daniels
Thule
Project: Thule Distribution Direct to Consumer Pick/Pack Process
CICC attendee: Matt Carabetta
Project: Inventory Accuracy
CICC attendee: Emily Ott

Check our website for registration details: https://www.connstep.org/continuous-improvement-champion-certification-cicc-fall/

Let’s Get Started!

Contact us today to see if CONNSTEP is a fit for your business.

Continuous Improvement Champion Certification (CICC)

[Poster] 5S Guide

[Case Study] Improvement to Process Flow Increases Productivity

CONNSTEP Celebrates Small Business Week

Thu, 06 Jun 2024 19:04:01 GMT

Over 60 years ago, the U.S. Small Business Administration (SBA) initiated National Small Business Week to honor and acknowledge the significant contributions of America’s entrepreneurs and small business owners. In honor of Small Business Week, CONNSTEP proudly celebrated National Small Business Week on behalf of the many small to medium-sized manufacturers in the state of Connecticut.

This year, National Small Business Week took place from April 28 – May 4, during which time CONNSTEP kicked off its Small Business Appreciation Tour , in the Fairfield County region of the state. In a gesture of appreciation, the CONNSTEP Tour Team visited several manufacturers to acknowledge their hard work, innovative spirit, and the role they play in shaping Connecticut’s future.

During the Small Business Appreciation Tour, our team visited the manufacturers prepared with gifts gratitude including handmade cookies, and other treats as a gesture of our appreciation. The CONNSTEP team consisted of Miles Herrick , Director of Business Development and Sales; Doug Narins , Business Development Advisor; Phoebe Gonzales, Associate Business Development Advisor; and consultant Barbara Hannan.

But the tour doesn’t stop in Fairfield County!

Get ready for a month-long celebration! The CONNSTEP Appreciation Tour is hitting the road in May to visit manufacturers across Connecticut and show our appreciation during National Small Business Month. Stay tuned for updates on the tour’s progress. We look forward to meeting many innovative manufacturers this month!

The CONNSTEP Team, would like to thank these manufacturers for your trust, and support. We truly appreciate the opportunity to visit and celebrate the many contributions you make throughout the state and beyond!

Check out the manufacturers we visited below:

HOMA Pump Technology

HOMA Pump Technology – Ansonia, CT: HOMA is a leading manufacturer of submersible pumps and motors, known worldwide for superb engineering and adherence to meeting and exceeding the strictest of industry standards. Their manufacturing process produces the highest quality, most reliable pumping equipment available, backed by expert workmanship and service. HOMA President Jim Torony, and Vice President Joanne Marino, shared the company's rich history, its expansive global reach, and its strategic road map for its future. The CONNSTEP team received a tour of the manufacturing floor and met with HOMA employees who proudly conveyed the work they conduct in support of the company operations.

Fun Fact: HOMA Pumps are installed throughout the entirety of Palm Jumeirah, the iconic man-made island in Dubai, United Arab Emirates.

Hampford Research

Hampford Research – Stratford, CT: Hampford Research is a specialty chemical manufacturer and an integral part of the electronics, adhesive, printing, and personal care/dental supply chains. The company has developed and manufactured customized handcrafted specialty chemical solutions from laboratory to full-scale production, earning a reputation as one of the finest small specialty chemical manufacturers in the United States. A second-generation family-owned business, Hampford Research was founded 40 years ago by chemist Jack Hampford. In 2007 he handed the helm to his daughter, Kate Hampford Donahue, who continues to serve in her role as CEO today. The company is a huge advocate of Lean manufacturing and continuous improvement, its processes, culture, and management style. According to Kate Donahue, “CONNSTEP training and services is one of the main pieces to help us do things consistently and safely every day. It's what's allowed us to effectively move forward. It's good for the company and for the people who work here. In fact, our Chemical Process Engineer Stefan DeRossi, just completed CONNSTEP’s Continuous Improvement Champion course and received his certification in March!” Following strict safety regulations, Hampford’s Donahue and President Lloyd Lirio escorted the CONNSTEP team on an extensive tour of their extraordinary chemical manufacturing facility. Throughout the tour, Hampford employees shared their expertise and roles at the company, demonstrated pride in their work, and expressed the value they bring to the organization. Hampford’s Lirio added, "The definition of modern is never stay the same. We're not afraid of change. That's what keeps us moving forward!"

Fun fact: During Jack Hampford's tenure, he achieved remarkable feats, including developing the inner materials of the modern golf ball famously used in a historic golf shot on the moon by astronaut Alan Shepard - where it remains to this day!

Penmar Industries

Penmar Industries – Stratford, CT: Penmar Industries is a leading supplier in the competitive market of customized labels, tapes, and packaging supplies. The company is focused on accelerated growth in the coming years through building its brand and investing in digital technologies. President and CEO Ed Rodriguez, and his son, Vice President of Finance Eddy Rodriguez, are the two generations powering the leadership and success of the company. They guided the CONNSTEP visitors on a tour of their production shop, introducing the staff and artisans who work as a tight-knit team to produce the final product. And they met Oz, the resident dog who is a beloved and honorary member the Penmar team.

Fun Fact: While crafting labels that embody their clients' artistic visions, Penmar has dominated the local beer scene by supplying labels for breweries like Two Roads Brewery and many others.

Seymour Sheridan

Seymour Sheridan – Monroe, CT: Seymour Sheridan has been manufacturing stainless steel floats and welded bellows since 1965. They also have the experience to custom design and produce floats and bellows to meet the demands of any application. Their high-quality products are competitively priced and delivered on time to their customers. Company CEO John Morgan and his daughter Cheryl Morgan, who serves as president, lead the organization at Seymour Sheridan, with Cheryl representing the third generation of the family business. Started by her grandfather Luke Morgan, an engineer, the company remains dedicated to crafting high-quality floats and bellows. During our NSBW Appreciation Tour, Cheryl shared her views about the company's products, clientele, and how she views the future. She is mindful of the evolving role of AI in the industry and is well aware of its growing impact. Based on customer feedback, Seymour Sheridan has a very strong reputation in the industry. She indicated that while post-pandemic supply chain disruptions persist, business overall is good. "What's most important," she said, "is growing with the times without changing for change's sake. We look for a balance." That philosophy extends to machine technologies, product innovation, training, and management style.

Fun Fact: Floats and bellows regulate the steam of a building's heating system. At the Empire State Building in New York City, Seymour Sheridan floats and bellows are strategically installed in the steam heating system, directly responsible for a remarkable 30% reduction in its carbon footprint!

Cornell-Carr

Cornell-Carr – Monroe, CT: Since 1955, Cornell-Carr has been producing the majority of doors and windows for the U.S. Naval fleet. A business that started out making metal cookie sheets found its way through happenstance to a building project from a man who visited the company from the Brooklyn Naval Yard. That visit, as it turned out, serendipitously evolved into a mighty and trusted partnership with the U.S. Navy. The company serves most major commercial and military shipbuilding and repair shipyards in the United States. During the shop floor tour with the CONNSTEP team, the father and son leadership duo of Philip Gangnath and Phil Gangnath showed how they manufactures heat-, frost- and ballistic-resistant windows, some as thick as eight inches, for portholes of every size. Visit the Intrepid Museum docked at Pier 46 in Manhattan, and you'll see the Cornell-Carr branded name on all of them. The same is true if you board the Gerald R. Ford aircraft carrier in Virginia. Chances are, if a navy vessel has a window or door, it’s a good bet they are made by Cornell-Carr. Our team heard from Philip Sr. about the challenges of finding and maintaining experienced welders and machinists. That said, he indicated that his team is a strong one. "I'm proud of the family structure we've formed with our employees," shared Philip Sr. "We can talk about things and work through problems. We know how to laugh occasionally because what we do is quite a serious business."

Fun Fact: Cornell-Carr windows and doors were used in the film, The Perfect Storm, when they shot the final scenes where the ship was sinking.

Rose Sisters Chips

Rose Sisters Chips – Bridgeport, CT: The Rose Sisters Chips company produces seasoned baked flour tortillas using a family recipe originated nearly a century ago. Championed by Jonathan and Lauren Marcus, they have been the company stewards carrying on the tradition of the recipe from Jonathan's grandmother, Goldie. During the tour of their chip production facility, the CONNSTEP team witnessed the warm savory chips move through the assembly line and conveyer system before being baked in their new state-of-the-art oven affectionately called "Frankenstein.” It's big and powerful, boasting seven times the throughput capacity, marking the first step in a strategic expansion plan for the company, including debuting a new snack size and two additional flavors. Jonathan and Lauren shared their ambitious plan to take Rose Sisters Chips from a locally manufactured brand that's sold in some specialty stores to a more widely distributed brand, whose name and taste is on the tip of everyone's tongue. Their timeline to ramp up automation systems in is expected to begin in June, emphasizing that automating will require more hiring, not layoffs.

Fun Fact: Jonathan's grandmother immigrated to America from Poland in 1933 after marrying her husband Isidore in Ontario, Canada. The following year they moved to Brooklyn, New York. Among the few possessions she brought with her was a Singer sewing machine, which she used to earn a living in clothing factories. Decades later, Jonathan inherited the machine and had it appraised. To his surprise, he discovered that his grandmother's cherished possession, was manufactured in the very same building where Rose Sisters Chips are produced today—the former Singer Manufacturing Company in the East End of Bridgeport. Talk about a small world!

Sonata Scientific

Sonata Scientific – Danbury, CT: Sonata Scientific, founded and led by CEO Peter Van Buskirk and COO Jeffery Roeder, boasts an interdisciplinary team of chemists, physicists, and materials engineers. Their focus lies in developing cutting-edge products that significantly enhance health and well-being. Among these innovations are advanced Indoor Air Quality (IAQ) systems, leveraging novel technology stemming from their breakthroughs in nano-engineering. Their overarching mission is to enhance the safety and security of the medical supply chain. During our visit to their advanced laboratory, Van Buskirk and Roeder highlighted a critical issue: the process of sterilizing over half of all medical devices releases toxic gases through their packaging. These emissions pose risks in factories and warehouses, endangering workers exposed to them. In response, Sonata Scientific has engineered a control product that substantially mitigates these toxins, thereby enhancing worker and community safety. Furthermore, this leading developer of industrial air purification solutions envisions broader applications for their new product. They see potential uses in semiconductor manufacturing and various clean room environments, aiming to provide clean and safe air for facility workers and neighboring communities alike.

Fun Fact: While the pungent chemical odors often present in nail and hair salons may seem innocuous, they're actually harmful. Sonata Scientific is also addressing this concern, underscoring their commitment to improving air quality across diverse environments.

WaveAerospace

WaveAerospace – Stratford, CT: WaveAerospace specializes in the construction of high-performance heavy-weather drones, UAVs, and aircraft. These cutting-edge products find utility across various sectors, including law enforcement, emergency services, and military applications, such as search and rescue missions, disaster response, aerial surveys, marine and offshore operations, and atmospheric testing. Engineered to excel in extreme weather conditions, these unmanned aircraft often carry out vital missions with critical payloads, such as medical organ transportation, surpassing the capabilities of existing market offerings. Their guiding principle: "We fly where no one else can." At a tour of the company hangar at Sikorsky Memorial Airport, co-founder Steve Bofill and Dan Eidsness, Vice President of International & U.S. Relations, greeted the CONNSTEP team. They were surrounded by state-of-the-art, high-performance drones and a dedicated team of engineers. "We're revolutionizing aviation," stated Bofill. "Our key differentiator? The ability to fly in conditions that ground others, whether it's harsh weather or perilous environments." Expansion is on the horizon, with plans to hire 30 new staff members by late fall 2024 to keep up with escalating demand. Eidsness emphasized, "Our challenges lie in system development as we scale up, devising compliance protocols, and obtaining certifications." Among their groundbreaking products is the Huntress, an unmanned multi-copter boasting speeds exceeding 500 mph, slated for release next year. These UAVs are capable of enduring winds exceeding 80 mph for extended periods and withstanding even arctic conditions.

Fun Fact: WaveAerospace's UAVs have already demonstrated their real-world impact. In a recent incident in Westchester County, NY, where a small plane crashed and went missing, their UAVs played a pivotal role in the search and rescue operation, navigating where traditional resources couldn't reach.

Carlucci Welding & Fabrication

Carlucci Welding & Fabrication – Norwalk, CT: Carlucci specializes in fabricating structural steel components with precision and expertise, ensuring superior quality and durability for a wide range of construction and industrial applications, setting the foundation for safe and robust structures. Their dedicated team of highly skilled welders and fabricators, combined with state-of-the-art equipment and cutting-edge techniques, ensures the highest level of craftsmanship and integrity in every project. Founder and Principal Canio Carlucci and COO Deborah Gordon took CONNSTEP on a fascinating tour of its two locations where they met employees who shared their pride in their work. Afterwards, Carlucci and Gordon discussed their business and their plans for a large-scale project: a 2500-ton structural steel job for six mixed-use buildings in Darien, CT, set to break ground in December. Carlucci recalled spending nearly 120 hours on the bid. "Relationships get you the small jobs," he said. "Having the most complete price and the best plan to execute is how you close the deal." Regarding how he started his business, Carlucci shared, “Awhile back, I was working in private equity and just hated looking at spreadsheets all day.” One day he decided to follow his passion. "I'd learned welding when I was growing up and decided to start my own welding business. It's a great trade to be in. And oddly enough, as a leader, dealing with spreadsheets are exactly where I find myself again. But I love all of it." Carlucci Welding also specializes in architectural design, including a trophy three-story steel staircase, painted yellow, for a private home on Martha's Vineyard. Unlike other manufacturers, their work is ETO: Engineering To Go. No two projects are the same. Recently, they invested in a high-speed machine that, along with their current capacity, enables them to process 200 tons of steel weekly. "Our biggest challenge is to scale," added Gordon. "As we automate, our capacity will double and we'll need more people, not less, to manage the increased throughput. Growing too fast is a challenge," she admitted, " but staying the same size sends you backwards." Fun Fact: The first place Carlucci welded as a teenager was at his friend's father's business - located in the very same building he rents today for the fabrication arm of his company.

CONNSTEP Newsletter | June 2024

Sat, 01 Jun 2024 18:34:43 GMT

Recent Case Studies

Elevated Supervisory Skills Add to Performance & Productivity

“After the CONNSTEP training, I felt that each employee strengthened their capability as a supervisor. It shows in their confidence to lead others and the processes they have implemented in their departments. It also sends a message to everyone in the company that we care about your career growth and will keep supporting you in your roles.” Katty Garcia, General Manager, Siftex Equipment Company

Read this Case Study: https://www.connstep.org/case-study/elevated-supervisory-skills-add-to-performance-productivity/

5S Implementation at Workstations Improves Production Flow

“Thanks to CONNSTEP we learned a better way to improve production and workflow at our workstations. 5S has made the biggest difference, making us more organized and efficient. Labeling in work areas has been a big help, creating easier access to needed tools and eliminating wasted time.”-Josiah Loye, Chief Operating Officer, Country Carpenters

Read this Case Study: https://www.connstep.org/case-study/5s-implementation-at-workstations-improves-production-flow/

Recent Blogs

CONNSTEP Celebrates Small Business Week

Upcoming Training & Events

Event
A Guide to Digital Transformation Hosted by Capital Community College

Date: Wednesdays, February 7-June 26
Time: 8 am-9:30 am
Location: Ten (10) Locations Across CT

Training Workshops
CMMC Bootcamp: Mastering the CMMC Requirements Implementation
Date: Wednesdays, August 28th-September 25

Time: 8:00 am-12 noon

Location: CONNSTEP, 350 Church Street, Hartford, CT 06103

More Upcoming Events

HR Hotline Live: Prevent & Navigate Workplace Discrimination Complaints | Monday, June 3rd | 1:00 pm-2:00 pm
CMMC Rules & Compliance | Wednesday, June 5th | 11:30-12:30 pm
2024 Energy & Environment Conference | Thursday, June 6th | 8:30 am-3:30 pm
Building a Mentoring Program That Works: CBIA Leadership Essentials | Tuesday, June 11th | 1 pm-2 pm

Manufacturing News

CBIA BizCast: The Toilet Entrepreneur
5 Steps to Prepare Your Organization for an Industry 4.0 Transformation
Diversity Among Middle Market Manufacturers: A Pivotal Talent Priority
Made in Connecticut: MF Tool and Design

Manufacturing Resources

Capstone Projects

Ideally, it’s a win-win for the company and the students: the company has their problem solved and students get hands-on experience problem solving.

CONNSTEP will coordinate the connection between the manufacturer and the university, and assist the process as needed.

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

Additional Resources

Sign-up for our monthly newsletter below.

Join the Newsletter Mailing List

CONNSTEP Monthly Newsletter

State Manufacturers Better Prepared for the Future of the Industry

Sun, 19 May 2024 18:38:02 GMT

(Hartford, CT, May 17, 2024) – CONNSTEP, the Connecticut Manufacturing Extension Partnership (MEP) center, partnered with the Bridgeport Regional Business Council (BRBC) to host the “ Navigate the Future of Manufacturin g” luncheon on May 15th at the University of Bridgeport, for manufacturers in the Fairfield County area.

During the event, attendees received insights from CONNSTEP subject matter expert Jeff Orszak on the advantages of digital manufacturing implementation and the essential steps for preparing organizations for an Industry 4.0 transformation. His colleague, cyber expert Anna Mumford elaborated on the benefits of a robust cybersecurity program, emphasized industry compliance, and outlined five crucial steps for crafting an effective security plan. She also touched upon the proposed CMMC rule, its rollout, and the upcoming CMMC Bootcamp hosted by CONNSTEP.

CONNSTEP President & CEO Beatriz Gutierrez welcomed the crowd, sharing, “We recognize the importance of collaborating with regional business associations like the BRBC and the Southwest Connecticut Manufacturing Partnership. We are stronger when we work together to support manufacturers in their efforts to grow and evolve their businesses, navigate supply chain issues, apply cybersecurity measures, and adopt new and emerging technologies.”

Many manufacturers at the event remarked on the changing requirements facing their business due to shifting customer demands and industry regulations. Addressing critical issues such as Industry 4.0 transformation and cybersecurity protection and compliance is pivotal for ensuring the sustainability and resilience of their companies.

About CONNSTEP: A member of the MEP National Network, CONNSTEP is a manufacturing consultancy firm committed to assisting small-to-medium sized companies. Its team implements advanced business and technical solutions, along with workforce strategies, to facilitate growth, enhance profitability, and establish sustainable competitive advantages for organizations.

Building Resilient Supply Chains: Key Factors for Success

Wed, 10 Apr 2024 19:15:00 GMT

In today’s fast-paced and ever-changing business landscape, the resilience of supply chains stands out as a critical determinant for success. Disruptions can be unpredictable due to unforeseen circumstances requiring companies to adapt quickly and build robust supply chains capable of weathering challenges and ensuring optimal continuity.

Recognizing its importance, CONNSTEP recently commissioned a report from global consultancy firm Ernst & Young to evaluate the supply chain resilience in Connecticut’s aerospace, shipbuilding, and medical device sectors. The state’s three highly concentrated manufacturing business sectors collectively employ over one-third of its manufacturing workforce.

The report examined four pivotal factors influencing supply chain resilience across these sectors: innovation, in-state sourcing of manufacturing inputs, employment/workforce pipeline, and cost considerations. Here are some key insights from the assessment:

Innovation

While Connecticut ranks among the top three states nationwide in innovative research activity, its performance in commercializing research and product development throughout the supply chain lags behind, positioning it in the mid-range among states. This underscores the potential for substantial returns on investment in efforts to drive innovation further down the supply chain.

Connecticut OEMs source a smaller percentage of their complex inputs from in-state suppliers compared to counterparts in other states. This trend is influenced by the high-cost business landscape of Connecticut, leading many suppliers within the three sectors to specialize in producing commoditized items like machined metal products. While these products are integral to OEMs’ operations, they often encounter pricing pressure over time, potentially leading to reduced sales unless accompanied by increased product innovation.

In-state Sourcing of Manufacturing Inputs

The sourcing of manufacturing inputs locally or within the state offers advantages such as reduced transportation delays, mitigated geopolitical risks, and bolstered support for the local economy. Advanced components from their suppliers with industry and OEM-specific certifications, a strong manufacturing pipeline of highly skilled labor, and access to innovation networks can help sustain this type of sourcing among the three business sectors.

From a number’s perspective, aerospace OEMs in Connecticut currently procure approximately 20% of their inputs from local suppliers, marking a decline of nearly 7% since 2011, with an anticipated flat trajectory in the coming years. Similarly, the shipbuilding and medical device sectors source around 10% and 9% respectively of their manufacturing inputs from Connecticut suppliers, slightly lower than the nationwide average for each industry.

Employment/Workforce Pipeline

Cost

Connecticut’s high-cost environment to live and work poses challenges across various fronts, including housing expenses, which exceed those of benchmark states by 5-14%. As a result, increased housing costs and the high cost of living in Connecticut can potentially drive up wages demanded by employees.

Rising operating and raw material costs, coupled with increasing competition from out-of-state, were identified as significant hurdles for suppliers in the state. These escalating costs and competition present the greatest challenge to most suppliers’ operations in Connecticut including their ability to hire and compete for talent.

Conclusion

Supply chain resilience is imperative for navigating today’s complex and volatile business environment. Prioritizing innovation, local sourcing, workforce development, and cost-effective risk management strategies enables companies to fortify their supply chains against disruptions and maintain workflow continuity. Embracing these key factors not only enhances operational efficiency but also fosters long-term sustainability and competitive advantage for Connecticut manufacturers.

Click here to view the full Ernst & Young assessment report on supply chains in Connecticut’s aerospace, shipbuilding, and medical device sectors.

Source: Ernst & Young “ Innovate to Compete ” assessment report for CONNSTEP, February 2024

[Case Study] Strategic Roadmap Brings Synergy to Growth and Operations

“The standard requires you to overcome roadblocks. Working with CONNSTEP we were able to advance the level of our business and bring synergy to our growth and operational plans.”

[Blog] Sustaining Your Business During Times of Crisis

Steering your manufacturing business through this rocky period is vital to its longevity. Now is not the time to use the pandemic as an excuse to compromise on quality and service.

When you're a business owner facing roadblocks that prevent your business from getting to the next level, look to these fixes to get yourself moving in the right direction.

[Blog] Four Key Stages Business Leaders Must Overcome to Change Results

CONNSTEP Newsletter | April 2024

Thu, 28 Mar 2024 19:36:50 GMT

Recent Case Studies

ZANEEZ® Launches CT-based Manufacturing for its AnkleSTONE® and BedROK® Products

“The most exciting part of this successful strategy was the efficiency of the CONNSTEP process guided by their expert consultant who understood our needs in detail, and knew the best manufacturing solution to meet our challenge.”- Dr. Marien J. Zanyk, PhD, ZANEEZ® Health & Fitness

Read this Case Study: https://www.connstep.org/case-study/zaneez-launches-ct-based-manufacturing-for-its-anklestone-and-bedrok-products/

Total Productive Maintenance Reduces Equipment Downtime and Lost Capacity

“The biggest standout of this process with CONNSTEP was implementing a practice of TPM and applying it to our other machines to really help our efforts to minimize downtime, improve capacity, and meet the needs of our customers. ” – Alec Martone, Leggett & Platt (L&P) Aerospace

Read this Case Study: https://www.connstep.org/case-study/total-productive-maintenance-reduces-equipment-downtime-and-lost-capacity/

Recent Blogs

[Manufacturer Profile] Katty Garcia

Six years ago, she embarked on her tenure as a Production Operations Manager at Siftex Equipment Company, a manufacturer specializing in custom flexible connectors for various industries and applications. Last year, she was promoted to the company leadership position of General Manager, responsible for all operations and management of the company.

ICYMI: Proper Onboarding Can Make a Lasting Impression
Many manufacturers utilize a Quality Management System (QMS) in their organizations. A QMS is generally defined as a structured system that documents processes, procedures, and responsibilities for continuously delivering high-quality products and services that meet regulatory and customer requirements.

Read this Blog: https://www.connstep.org/workforce-development/proper-onboarding-can-make-a-lasting-impression/

Upcoming Training & Events

Event
A Guide to Digital Transformation Hosted by Capital Community College

Date: Wednesdays, February 7-June 26
Time: 8 am-9:30 am
Location: Ten (10) Locations Across CT

Webinar
Decoding the Proposed CMMC Rule & Compliance
Date: April 10
Time: 12 noon-1pm
Location: Online

Training
Quality Essentials Program (QEP Spring 2 024)
Date: April 11-May 9
Time: 9 am-3:30 pm
Location: Cromwell, CT

Training
Supervisor Bootcamp (Spring 2024)
Date: May 3-June 14
Time: 8 am-12 pm
Location: Cromwell, CT

More Upcoming Events

CT Manufacturing Careers Roadshow ’24 Series | March 27th-September 26th | More information
HR Roundtable: Handling Common Disciplinary Issues | Wednesday, April 3rd | 8:30 am-10 am
2024 Connecticut Workforce Summit | Tuesday, April 16th | 8:30 am-2:30 pm
ManufactureCT Connect | Thursday, April 18th, 2024 | 8:30 am-6 pm
CBIA 2024 Safety & Health Conference | Wednesday, May 15th | 8:30 am-3:30 pm
CONNverge – the Women in Manufacturing Connecticut | Thursday, May 23rd | 11 am-4 pm

Manufacturing News

5 Steps to Prepare Your Organization for an Industry 4.0 Transformation
Navigating the Next Level: What You Need to Know About CMMC 2.0 Rule and Compliance
CONNSTEP Staff Members Add New Credentials
CBIA: Manufacturing Supply Chain Report Highlights Policy Opportunities
CBIA BizCast: Bead CEO Jill Mayer Drives Culture Change
CBIA: Connecticut Spring & Stamping Acquires NJ Manufacturer
(MIF) Manufacturing Innovation Fund Annual Report

Manufacturing Resources

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

Additional Resources

Sign-up for our monthly newsletter below.

Join the Newsletter Mailing List

CONNSTEP Monthly Newsletter

Navigating the Next Level: What You Need to Know About CMMC 2.0 Rule and Compliance

Thu, 29 Feb 2024 19:55:44 GMT

Upcoming webinar on this topic:

Decoding the Proposed CMMC Rule & Compliance

Date: April 10, 2024
Time: 12 noon– 1 pm
Location: Online
Cost: FREE

Defense contractors are well aware of the increasingly sophisticated and pervasive cybersecurity threats facing the industry. In response to these challenges, the Department of Defense (DoD) has been actively working on enhancing its cybersecurity requirements for contractors including the forthcoming release of CMMC 2.0.

CMMC, or Cybersecurity Maturity Model Certification, was introduced to standardize and enhance cybersecurity practices across the defense industrial base (DIB). With the impending release of CMMC 2.0, military and defense manufacturers can look forward to significant updates and refinements to the existing framework.

What to anticipate with CMMC 2.0?

Manufacturers can expect a heightened focus on scalability and flexibility. Recognizing that one size doesn’t fit all, the updated framework aims to provide more tailored approaches to cybersecurity based on the size, complexity, and nature of the organization’s operations. This means contractors will have more options for demonstrating compliance while still ensuring robust cybersecurity measures.

A More Streamlined Process

CMMC 2.0 is also predicted to streamline the certification process. While there were some criticisms of the initial CMMC rollout due to its complexity, the updated version seeks to simplify procedures and reduce bureaucratic hurdles. This will undoubtedly be welcomed by defense contractors, particularly small and medium-sized companies, who may have found the previous requirements a challenge.

Clearer Guidelines and Criteria

Additionally, CMMC 2.0 is anticipated to introduce clearer guidelines and criteria for compliance. This will provide manufacturers serving the defense industry with a better understanding of what is expected of them, enabling more effective planning and implementation of cybersecurity measures. The updated framework seeks to align with internationally recognized standards and best practices to enhance the overall cybersecurity posture of the DIB.

As the release of CMMC 2.0 draws near, defense contractors should proactively prepare for the changes it will bring, from conducting thorough assessments of current cybersecurity practices and identifying gaps, to implementing necessary improvements. By staying informed and engaged, manufacturers can ensure they are well-positioned to meet evolving cybersecurity requirements and continue to contribute to the security of the defense industry supply chain.

For more resources on cybersecurity, visit the resources page on our website at: https://www.connstep.org/resources/connex-connecticut

[Blog] CMMC 2.0 – Strategic Direction & Clarity of Program

The Department of Defense (DoD) introduced the enhanced Cybersecurity Maturity Model Certification (CMMC) 2.0 program, marking the completion of an internal assessment of the program by senior DoD officials.

[PDF] Cybersecurity Compliance is Mandatory

Manufacturers doing business directly or indirectly for the DoD, GSA, and NASA must meet Defense Federal Acquisition Regulation Supplement (DFARS) minimum cybersecurity standards or risk losing contacts.

This whitepaper guides you through the evaluation and selection process for choosing an MSP, outlining key criteria and the benefits of an MSP.

[White Paper] Choosing the Best IT Managed Service Provider for Your Business

CONNSTEP Newsletter | March 2024

Thu, 29 Feb 2024 19:49:52 GMT

Recent Case Studies

Improvement to Process Flow Increases Productivity

“Areas down the line were exposed, we saw the hidden waste and inefficiencies, and were able to address them. In the process we fixed our ability to deliver a full complete kit.”- Tyler Webster, Sonitek Corporation

Read this Case Study: https://www.connstep.org/case-study/improvement-to-process-flow-increases-productivity/

Streamlined Tracking System Expedites Production Turnaround Time

“CONNSTEP and its partner Triple Helix helped LogoSportswear achieve our vision. Internal teams saw the value in the process, enabling us to open up areas for improvement, create an enhanced order location tracking system, and lead us to make significant capital investments in equipment, all in support of delighting our customers.” –Ralph Pantano, LogoSportswear, Inc.

Read this Case Study: https://www.connstep.org/case-study/streamlined-tracking-system-expedites-production-turnaround-time/

Recent Blogs

Navigating the Next Level: What You Need to Know About CMMC 2.0 Rule and Compliance

Read this Blog: https://www.connstep.org/cybersecurity-compliance/navigating-the-next-level-what-you-need-to-know-about-cmmc-2-0-rule-and-compliance/

ICYMI: Meet Customer and Regulatory Requirements with a Quality Management System (QMS)
Many manufacturers utilize a Quality Management System (QMS) in their organizations. A QMS is generally defined as a structured system that documents processes, procedures, and responsibilities for continuously delivering high-quality products and services that meet regulatory and customer requirements.

Read this Blog: https://www.connstep.org/quality-management/meet-customer-and-regulatory-requirements-with-a-quality-management-system-qms/

Money for Manufacturers

Upcoming Training & Events

Event
A Guide to Digital Transformation Hosted by Capital Community College

Date: Wednesdays, February 7-June 26
Time: 8 am-9:30 am
Location: Ten (10) Locations Across CT

Webinar
Decoding the Proposed CMMC Rule & Compliance
Date: April 10
Time: 12 noon-1pm
Location: Online

Training
Quality Essentials Program (QEP Spring 2024)
Date: April 11-May 9
Time: 9 am-3:30 pm
Location: Cromwell, CT

Training
Supervisor Bootcamp (Spring 2024)
Date: May 3-June 14
Time: 8 am-12 pm
Location: Cromwell, CT

More Upcoming Events

When Women Lead Happy Hour | Tuesday, March 5th | 4 pm-6 pm
Safety Roundtable: Preparing for OSHA Inspections Tuesday, March 12th 8 am-10 am
When Women Lead | Wednesday, March 20th | 8:30 am-11:45 pm
Connecticut Business Day Tuesday, March 26th 9 am-12 pm
CT Manufacturing Careers Roadshow ’24 Series | March 27th-September 26
2024 Connecticut Workforce Summit Tuesday, April 16th 8:30 am-2:30 pm

Manufacturing News

Manufacturing Resources

MCRC | 2024 Business Operating Grants
The Middlesex County Revitalization Commission is offering grants of up to $25,000 to qualified small businesses in Middlesex County. Applications will be accepted March 1-March 31, 2024.

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

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CONNSTEP Monthly Newsletter

CONNSTEP Staff Members Add New Credentials

Mon, 19 Feb 2024 19:59:14 GMT

(Hartford, CT, January 31, 2024) – CONNSTEP, the Connecticut Manufacturing Extension Partnership (MEP) center, is pleased to announce that four of its employees have completed coursework that has added new credentials to their industry expertise.

Rachele Brown , Quality and Compliance Consultant at CONNSTEP, was recently certified to AS13100, an aerospace standard developed by the SAE G-22 Aerospace Engine Supplier Quality (AESQ) Standards Committee for the aero engine supply chain. Rachele will execute the primary intent of this standard which is to improve overall product quality by focusing on key systems and processes that may deter consistent aerospace engine product quality.

Anna Mumford , Cybersecurity Consultant at CONNSTEP, added a Master’s degree in Cybersecurity Management from Purdue University to her qualifications, complementing her undergraduate degree in Computer Science. Anna will specialize in governance, risk management, and compliance (GRC) helping CONNSTEP clients establish frameworks that align their IT with business objectives and regulatory compliance needs.

Matin Karbassioon , Continuous Improvement (CI) Consultant completed his certification in Training Within Industry – Job Relations (TWI-JR). This time-honored methodology of helping leaders understand and improve upon the relationships within teams allows them to significantly accelerate process changes and promotes a more satisfied, creative workforce. Matin’s achievement greatly enhances CONNSTEP’s ability to deliver positive impact to manufacturers.

Carissa Roman , CI Consultant, also completed her certification in TWI-JR. In addition, she completed her Training Within Industry – Job Instruction (TWI-JI) certification. TWI-JI is an essential training tool for problem solving, standard work, continuous improvement, operational excellence, and Lean initiatives. Combined, these two approaches provide manufacturers with a solid foundation for improvement and growth.

“Continuous education is encouraged and revered at CONNSTEP,” according to Mike Stimson , Director, Strategic Engagement & Process. “Helping staff to stay current with industry trends and innovations provides greater value and expertise to our clients and strengthens our thought leadership position in the state’s manufacturing community.”

About CONNSTEP: A member of the MEP National Network, CONNSTEP is a manufacturing consultancy firm serving small-to-medium sized companies, implementing advanced business and technical solutions, and workforce strategies, that help organizations grow, improve profitability, and create sustainable competitive advantages.

Interested in Learning More?

Contact us today.

CONNSTEP Newsletter | February 2024

Tue, 30 Jan 2024 20:06:13 GMT

Recent Case Studies

Cybersecurity Compliance Key to Business Sustainability

“Working with CONNSTEP on our POAM has changed the way we operate. Taking into consideration all security measures has made us compliant, which for a small organization like ours is critical to our success.”- Mike Fabiani, President, Corru-Seals (dba Nicholsons)

Read this Case Study: https://www.connstep.org/case-study/cybersecurity-compliance-key-to-business-sustainability/

UTR Engineering Works: Unleashing New Opportunities with CONNEX Connecticut

We provide many services which can prove difficult for potential clients to zero in on, but CONNEX and the CONNSTEP team made sure clients understand how U.T.R. can help. Overall, it has been a great avenue for us to develop new clients and raise our profile and awareness.” –Ralph Prisco, U.T.R. Engineering Works

Recent Blogs

The Role of Daily Management in Creating a Lean Culture

The work environment of a manufacturing business is a critical factor for its growth, competitiveness, and success. A company culture driven by continuous improvement initiatives sustained over time not only delivers value to customers but also engages your workforce as habitual problem-solvers.

Read this Blog: https://www.connstep.org/continuous-improvement/the-role-of-daily-management-in-creating-a-lean-culture/

ICYMI: AI in Manufacturing Has Its Benefits
Google CEO Sundar Pichai recently commented on AI saying, “The revolution is coming faster than you know. It’s a profound technology still in its early days that will impact every product across every company.”

Read this Blog: https://www.connstep.org/technology/ai-in-manufacturing-has-its-benefits/

Upcoming Training & Events

Event
A Guide to Digital Transformation Hosted by Capital Community College

Date: Wednesdays, February 7-June 26
Time: 8 am-9:30 am
Location: Ten (10) Locations Across CT

Training
Training Within Industry-Job Instruction (TWI-JI)

Date: February 12-February 14
Time: 8 am-12 noon
Location: Hartford

Training
Continuous Improvement Champion Certification (CICC Spring 2024)
Date: March 5-June 4
Time: 8:30 am-4:30 pm
Location: Cromwell, CT

Training
Quality Essentials Program (QEP Spring 2024)
Date: April 11-May 9
Time: 9 am-3:30 pm
Location: Cromwell, CT

Training
Supervisor Bootcamp (Spring 2024)
Date: May 3-June 14
Time: 8 am-12 pm
Location: Cromwell, CT

More Upcoming Events

Manufacturing News

2024 Labor and Employment Outlook for Manufacturers
Technology, Workforce Drive Manufacturing Innovation Fund Investments
New Haven Manufacturing Training Program
Connecticut’s CHIPS Consortium
(MIF) Manufacturing Innovation Fund Annual Report
[Podcast] Manufacturing an American Century
Check out the most recent episode of the American Manufacturing Communities Collaborative (AMCC) ‘s podcast! Host Matt Bogoshian talks to Paul S. Lavoie , Connecticut’s Chief Manufacturing Officer and Kelli-Marie Vallieres,PhD, Connecticut’s Chief Workforce Officer.

Manufacturing Resources

Money 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

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CONNSTEP Monthly Newsletter

The Role of Daily Management in Creating a Lean Culture

Mon, 22 Jan 2024 20:27:47 GMT

Daily Management

Manufacturing leaders are tasked with running their business effectively and improving their operations. These responsibilities also involve managing the daily work of their organization, otherwise known as Daily Management.

Daily Management in manufacturing refers to the systematic and routine activities that manufacturing organizations undertake to ensure smooth operations, maintain quality, meet production targets, and continuously improve processes.

According to the Gemba Academy, “at the most basic level, a daily management system enables us to know each day whether we are on-track or off-track to meeting our goals. It provides a structure to expose problems and take corrective action.”

Lean Culture

Daily Management plays a role in creating a Lean culture that promotes problem-solving in place of finger pointing.

Although Lean is process focused, it does require daily commitment and daily accountability by those who audit processes, identify abnormalities, and create a problem-solving culture through Daily Management.

Leaders who encourage the active participation of their entire workforce help to ensure the effectiveness of Daily Management. Seeking feedback from employees and implementing changes to optimize processes fosters a culture of continuous improvement.

It also involves providing ongoing training to employees to enhance their skills, keep them updated on new processes and technologies, and equip them with the appropriate resources to complete tasks in a safe environment.

Principles

The key principles behind Daily Management are:

Expect people to solve problems at their own level.
Use standardized work as the foundation for continuous improvement and employee empowerment.
Expand and employ best practices and share ideas across the organization.
Use visual management to expose and correct problems, inspire improvement, and understand situations at a glance.

Outcomes

The beneficial outcomes of employing Daily Management in your manufacturing business to create a Lean culture are many. It allows teams and individuals to:

Be engaged in the process by using their knowledge and experience to check and solve problems regularly
Feel supported by valuing their input
Explore what is important to do their job well and to satisfy their customers
Develop team-based working relationships and ownership responsibilities
Establish visual means to manage work that promotes a standard way and process
Share information and learning across the team and business

By systematically managing the routine activities of your manufacturing organization, Daily Management can be the driver for the continuing success of your business.

To learn more about Daily Management, take advantage of CONNSTEP’s continuous improvement on-site consulting or through our Continuous Improvement Champion Certification (CICC) program . CICC training reviews the key components of Daily Management in manufacturing.

Let’s Get Started!

Contact us today to see if CONNSTEP is a fit for your business.

Continuous Improvement Champion Certification (CICC)

[Poster] 5S Guide

[Case Study] Improvement to Process Flow Increases Productivity

CONNSTEP Newsletter | January 2024

Wed, 03 Jan 2024 20:42:03 GMT

Recent Case Studies

Visual Management Tools and Setup Reduction Drive Quality and Production Gains

“We’ve really seen a culture of continuous improvement emerge with the mandatory use of visual boards. It’s become a habit to check the scheduling boards to help keep the jobs flowing. It’s now our standard way of operating.” Ibrahim Ibrahim, Lynn Welding Company, Inc.

Read this Case Study: https://www.connstep.org/case-study/visual-management-tools-and-set-up-reduction-drive-quality-and-production-gains/

CONNEX Facilitates a $100,000 Sales Opportunity for Novo Precision

“Using CONNEX we were able to find a good strategic match with a local company that was buying out of state and finishing in-house. We can provide complete turnkey service which is a win – win for both companies.” Bill Hazard, Novo Precision

Recent Blogs

The Importance of Setup Reduction/Quick Changeover

One of the biggest challenges manufacturers face today is high mix, low volume customer orders. The market demands shorter lead times of more frequent and smaller lots (batches) of product. This creates a dilemma for those manufacturers that deal with excessive setup or changeover time of equipment.

Read this Blog: https://www.connstep.org/continuous-improvement/the-importance-of-setup-reduction-quick-changeover/

The Power of Kaizen in Manufacturing
Staying competitive and productive in manufacturing is essential to survival. One approach that has proven its worth time and time again is Kaizen. Kaizen, a Japanese term meaning “change for better,” is a methodology that focuses on continuous improvement. In this blog, we’ll explore how Kaizen works and the benefits it brings to a manufacturing business.

Read this Blog: https://www.connstep.org/continuous-improvement/the-power-of-kaizen-in-manufacturing/

Upcoming Training & Events

Event
A Guide to Digital Transformation Hosted by Capital Community College

Date: Wednesday, January 17th
Time: 7:30 am-9 am
Location: Capital Community College, Hartford, CT

Webinar
Building a Successful Profile with CONNEX Connecticut

Date: Friday, January 19th
Time: 12 noon-12:30 pm
Location: Online

Training
Continuous Improvement Champion Certification (CICC Spring 2024)
Date: March 5-June 4
Time: 8:30 am-4:30 pm
Location: Cromwell, CT

Training
Quality Essentials Program (QEP Spring 2024)
Date: April 11-May 9
Time: 9 am-3:30 pm
Location: Cromwell, CT

Manufacturing News

• 500 Registered Manufacturers Reaping Benefits of CONNEX CT
• CBIA BizCast: Talking Manufacturing with RSM’s Dan Wheadon
• CBIA BizCast: UConn Tech Park Drives Innovation
• Connecticut’s CHIPS Consortium
• (MIF) Manufacturing Innovation Fund Annual Report
• [Podcast] Manufacturing an American Century : Check out the most recent episode of the American Manufacturing Communities Collaborative (AMCC)’s podcast! Host Matt Bogoshian talks to Paul S. Lavoie, Connecticut’s Chief Manufacturing Officer and Kelli-Marie Vallieres,PhD, Connecticut’s Chief Workforce Officer.

Manufacturing Resources

Additional Resources

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CONNSTEP Monthly Newsletter

The Power of Kaizen in Manufacturing

Mon, 20 Nov 2023 20:57:54 GMT

How Kaizen Works

Kaizen is a systematic approach that involves all employees in a manufacturing company. While often thought of with an emphasis on shop floor workers, Kaizen is also used extensively in office environments and within information flow. Kaizen’s primary objective is making incremental and continuous improvements in processes, products, or services. Here’s how it works:

A Culture of Improvement: Kaizen starts with cultivating a culture of improvement within the organization. Every employee, from top management to the plant floor, is encouraged to participate by identifying problems, proposing solutions, and helping to implement changes. Toyota stands out as an example, where over the past 40 years, the company claims to have generated more than 20 million ideas, with more than 90% of them implemented.
Identifying Problems: In a manufacturing environment, this could include pinpointing issues like bottlenecks, defects, waste, or inefficiencies in the production process.
Manageable Changes: Kaizen doesn’t necessarily require massive overhauls. Instead, taking small, manageable steps can lead to bigger impacts, like optimizing workstations, eliminating non value-added activities, improving communication, or reducing setup times.
Data-Driven Decision Making: Decisions in Kaizen are often driven by factual data, usually collected through measurements, observations, and analysis.
Implementing Changes: Once improvements are identified, they are tested, evaluated, tweaked if needed, before being implemented. This step is critical for realizing the benefits of Kaizen.
Standardizing Improvements: To ensure sustained success, the changes are standardized – think Standard Work – and integrated into operational procedures.
Repeat the Cycle: Kaizen is an ongoing process, with empowered employees encouraged to continually identify any problem areas for improvement and then start the process again.

Benefits for Manufacturing Businesses

Kaizen offers key advantages to manufacturing businesses, including:

Increased Efficiency: By continuously eliminating waste and streamlining processes, Kaizen leads to increased productivity and reduced production costs. This translates to a more competitive edge in the market.
Quality Improvement: Kaizen emphasizes maintaining and improving quality. Fewer defects mean reduced rework and waste, as well as higher customer satisfaction.
Enhanced Employee Engagement: Involving employees in problem-solving and decision-making empowers them. This not only boosts morale but also taps into the collective knowledge and creativity of your workforce.
Reduced Lead Times: Kaizen’s focus on resolving bottlenecks and optimizing processes leads to shorter lead times and faster response to customer demands.
Cost Reduction: Eliminating waste, reducing downtime, and improving resource allocation can significantly cut operational costs.
Customer Satisfaction: High-quality products delivered on time result in happier customers and repeat business.
Competitive Advantage: Manufacturers that embrace Kaizen can outperform their competitors, leading to a stronger market position.
Sustainability: By reducing waste, and maximizing resources and processes, Kaizen contributes to a more sustainable and productive manufacturing processes are minimal.

Kaizen Rules

Finally, there are 10 basic Kaizen rules, each with their own theme:

Discard conventional ideas
Think of how to do it,not why it cannot be done
Do not make excuses, question current practices
Do not seek perfection, just do it now
Correct mistakes immediately
Spend wisdom, not money for Kaizen
Wisdom emerges in adversity
Identify the root cause by asking “Why?” five times
Seek wisdom of 10 rather than knowledge of one
Kaizen ideas are infinite

Kaizen is a powerful methodology for achieving continuous improvement in manufacturing. By fostering a culture of incremental change, engaging employees at all levels, and focusing on data-driven improvements, businesses can realize substantial benefits, including increased efficiency, cost reduction, and improved product quality.

In today’s highly competitive manufacturing landscape, Kaizen is a game-changing strategy that allows companies to stay ahead of the curve and drive long-term success.

To learn more about how to implement Kaizen effectively, consider exploring CONNSTEP’s continuous improvement services or our Continuous Improvement Champion Certification (CICC) program. This training equips participants with the framework, tools, and techniques to facilitate cross-functional teams in executing Kaizen. Learn more about CICC here: https://www.connstep.org/events/

Let’s Get Started!

Contact us today to see if CONNSTEP is a fit for your business.

Continuous Improvement Champion Certification (CICC)

[Poster] 5S Guide

[Case Study] Improvement to Process Flow Increases Productivity

500 Registered Manufacturers Reaping Benefits of CONNEX CT

Mon, 20 Nov 2023 20:49:40 GMT

(Hartford, CT, November 21, 2023) – CONNEX Connecticut , an online platform that connects Connecticut manufacturers and suppliers into a single searchable database, announced today that it has reached a goal of 500 manufacturers registered on the platform. East Haven company DCL Skincare became the 500th registered company, helping to achieve this milestone.

DCL Skincare , a leading manufacturer of high-quality skincare products, joined the CONNEX CT platform after recognizing the many benefits of this centralized and searchable supply-chain solution. The value of the vast network of potential partners accessible to DCL Skincare enables them to expand their reach and streamline their procurement process.

“We are thrilled to welcome DCL Skincare as our 500th registered company,” said Bernice Zampano , Program Manager of CONNEX Connecticut. “Their decision to join the platform further validates our mission to connect manufacturers and suppliers, driving more business growth and success in our state.”

CONNEX CT has attracted a wide variety of manufacturers and suppliers from across the country. Its appeal extends beyond Connecticut, as businesses of all sizes realize the advantages of connecting with a network of qualified partners from a single, easy to use, online platform.

To learn more about CONNEX Connecticut and how it can benefit your business, please visit: https://manufacturing.ct.gov/CONNEX

Interested in Learning More?

Contact us today.

The Importance of Setup Reduction/Quick Changeover

Wed, 01 Nov 2023 21:07:22 GMT

Although changeover times on equipment may vary, (average of 42 minutes according to a study from Performance Solutions by Milliken), some equipment may experience setup times of six hours or more to switch from the last good part of the current run to the first good part of the next run. Excessive setup time robs companies of valuable production capacity that can be utilized towards significantly shortening overall lead times, becoming more responsive to customer demands, while potentially capturing additional market share.

Setup reduction builds on the principles of Single Minute Exchange of Die (SMED), a systematic approach used in manufacturing to reduce the time it takes to change over a machine or production line from making one product to another.

Single-Minute Exchange of Die

Single Minute Exchange of Die, a system developed by Shigeo Shingo, involves identifying and eliminating any unnecessary part of the changeover process to reduce setup time. When a piece of manufacturing equipment needs to be replaced, the changeover time can lead to costly, unexpected downtime.

The overarching purpose of the SMED system is to convert as many changeover steps as possible to being performed while the equipment is running, and to simplify and streamline the remaining steps. The name Single Minute Exchange of Die comes from the goal of reducing changeover times to the “single” digits, meaning less than 10 minutes.

The changeover improvement process leads to no or low-cost solutions to reduce changeover time, allowing manufacturers to meet customer demands for high-quality, lower cost products, delivered quickly and without the expense of excess inventory.

A successful SMED program will have key benefits such as:

Lower production cost : faster changeovers result in less equipment downtime
Smaller lot sizes : quicker changeovers enable more frequent product changes
Better responsiveness to customer demand : smaller lot (batch) sizes provide more flexible scheduling
Improved inventory control : lower inventory levels are possible with smaller lot sizes
Streamlined Startups : standardized changeover processes help maintain consistency and quality

Setup Reduction

The primary goal of setup reduction is to minimize downtime and increase the efficiency of manufacturing processes. There are several advantages of setup reduction, including:

Less Downtime: The most significant advantage of setup reduction is in machine or production line downtime. By implementing SMED techniques, manufacturers can switch between products more quickly, resulting in increased machine utilization and production capacity.
Increased Productivity: Reduced setup times mean more time spent on actual production, leading to higher productivity. This can also result in cost savings and increased profitability.
Flexibility: Setup reduction enhances a manufacturer’s ability to respond to changes in customer demand or production requirements more quickly, crucial in today’s dynamic business environment.
Lower Inventory Levels: With quicker changeovers, manufacturers can produce smaller batch sizes more economically. This reduces the need for excessive inventory and storage space, saving costs.
Improved Quality: Setup reduction often involves standardizing procedures and processes. This can lead to improved product quality due to a more consistent and controlled setup process.
Employee Engagement: Involving employees in setup reduction efforts can boost morale and engagement, as they can see tangible improvements in their work environment and efficiency.
Cost Savings: Minimizing downtime, reducing batch sizes, and improving efficiency, can lead to significant cost reduction in terms of labor, materials, and energy.

There are some disadvantages of setup reduction to consider, including:

Initial Investment: Implementation may require an initial investment in training, tools, and equipment, which can be a barrier for some organizations, especially smaller ones. However, the SMED methodology considers low cost, no cost solutions first which can typically result in a 30% reduction in changeover time.
Resistance to Change: Employees and management may resist changes in established processes and may need time and encouragement to adapt to new methods and procedures. In these environments, it is recommended to run pilot projects and let the results (higher quality, shorter changeovers) speak for themselves.
Complexity : The setup reduction process can involve the analysis of existing procedures and the development of new ones which may be a challenge to manage and implement.
Risk of Errors: When processes change too quickly, there’s a risk of errors occurring during the setup, which can lead to production issues and quality problems. However, an effective setup reduction methodology emphasizes safety and quality above all, and includes the application of mistake proofing and audits to build quality at the source.
Not Suitable for All Operations : While setup reduction is highly effective in many manufacturing environments, it may not be as applicable or beneficial in certain continuous or highly automated processes where changeovers are minimal.

Conclusion

In summary, setup reduction is a valuable approach in manufacturing to reduce downtime, improve efficiency, and increase flexibility. While it offers numerous advantages, such as cost savings and improved productivity, it may require an initial investment and could face potential challenges related to resistance to change and process complexity. Its applicability depends on the specific manufacturing processes and goals of the organization.

In our Continuous Improvement Champion Certification (CICC) training program, CONNSTEP reviews the principles of setup reduction and the SMED system. We also show you how to apply the changeover improvement process using a simulation exercise to achieve setup reduction. Learn more about CICC at https://www.connstep.org/events/ .

Let’s Get Started!

Contact us today to see if CONNSTEP is a fit for your business.

Continuous Improvement Champion Certification (CICC)

[Poster] 5S Guide

[Case Study] Improvement to Process Flow Increases Productivity

CONNSTEP Announces SMARTE Program for Manufacturers

Thu, 28 Sep 2023 21:10:20 GMT

(Hartford, CT, September 29, 2023) –CONNSTEP, the Connecticut Manufacturing Extension Partnership (MEP) center, announced today that it has received funding from the U.S. Department of Energy, State Manufacturing Leadership Program. The award is part of a federal grant to support Connecticut’s Smart Manufacturing Assessment and Access to Reduce Technology Emissions (SMARTE) program.

The goal of the SMARTE initiative is to reduce manufacturing energy consumption, costs, and carbon dioxide (CO2) emissions and to improve energy efficiency. The program is funded for two years beginning in 2024 and will focus on aerospace, defense, and semiconductor industries given their significant impact on the environment and economy in Connecticut.

CONNSTEP will be collaborating with the state’s Department of Economic and Community Development, the Connecticut Center for Advanced Technology Inc. ( CCAT), and the Industrial Assessment Center at the University of Connecticut to assist in the rapid deployment and adoption of smart manufacturing and High-Performance Computing (HPC) technologies for small-to-medium sized manufacturers.

According to CONNSTEP President and CEO Beatriz Gutierrez , “our organization is prepared to work with manufacturers in the state to not only help them implement smart manufacturing technologies for greater energy efficiency but also recommend process improvements to increase their workflow and productivity.”

For more information about the program, contact CONNSTEP today!

Let’s Get Started!

Contact us today to see if CONNSTEP is a fit for your business.

Meet Customer and Regulatory Requirements with a Quality Management System (QMS)

Sun, 10 Sep 2023 21:14:36 GMT

Many manufacturers utilize a Quality Management System (QMS) in their organizations. A QMS is generally defined as a structured system that documents processes, procedures, and responsibilities for continuously delivering high-quality products and services that meet regulatory and customer requirements.

A popular general quality standard is ISO9001:2015, designed to provide a framework that any organization can use to establish a QMS that is unique to their given industry.

ISO9001:2015

According to the International Organization for Standardization (ISO), ISO 9001 is defined as the internationally recognized standard for Quality Management Systems. It is the most widely used QMS standard in the world, with over 1 million certificates issued to organizations in over 170 countries.

The ISO9001:2015 standard is based on several quality management principles including a sharper risk focus, strong customer emphasis, organizational leadership engagement and participation, process efficiency, and continual improvement. It turns a static set of QMS requirements into a more agile, collaborative, and robust evolving platform.

ISO9001:2015 is a quality management standard for companies and organizations of any size. The standard specifies requirements for a quality management system when a business needs to demonstrate its ability to consistently provide products and services that meet customer, statutory, and regulatory requirements.

The ISO9001:2015 standard also strives to enhance customer satisfaction through effective implementation of processes for improvement and the assurance of conformity to established requirements for any organization, regardless of its type or size, or the products and services it provides.

Key benefits to being certified to the ISO 9001:2015 standard include:

Improved Quality: organizations can better control their processes, leading to consistent and higher quality outputs
Customer Satisfaction: regularly delivering products and services that meet or exceed customer expectations often leads to improved customer loyalty and confidence
Process Improvement: managing and streamlining processes can reduce waste and improve efficiency, which can generate cost savings and increase productivity
Better Decision Making: The standard emphasizes evidence-based decision making, where organizations can make informed decisions for continuous improvement by collecting and analyzing data related to processes and outcomes
Risk Management: stronger focus on risk-based thinking helps identify potential issues or concerns that could impact the quality of products or services, with preventive measures to mitigate these risks
Employee Engagement: employees who understand their roles, responsibilities, and the value of their contributions to the QMS are more likely to be motivated and invested in their work
Competitive Advantage: many customers view ISO 9001 certification as a commitment to quality and continuous improvement, even opening doors to international markets
Supplier Relationships: requiring suppliers to meet certain quality management standards can lead to improved relationships as well as consistency and reliability in the supply chain
Continuous Improvement: following the principles of the standard may lead to ongoing assessment and enhancement of processes, long-term growth, and a company culture of continuous improvement

Management Commitment

ISO 9001:2015, unlike ISO 9001:2008, places emphasis on the proactive, constant commitment of your leadership or management team to the execution of your QMS.

With their renewed dedication and responsibility, your leadership team should:

Advise everyone in your organization of the importance and benefits of a certified QMS
Inform your employees why they should participate, and their role, in its implementation
Ensure your quality policy and objectives align with the strategic plan of your business
Promote risk-based thinking as it pertains to the organization’s quality management system
Dedicate adequate resources and guidance to make sure the QMS achieves its intended outcome

Your ISO 9001 auditor will expect to see evidence of management commitment to and responsibility for the quality agenda, including frequent managerial review sessions with documented outcomes.

Quality Essentials Program

CONNSTEP, Connecticut’s Manufacturing Extension Partnership (MEP) center, provides a general overview of Quality Management Systems, including ISO9001:2015 and the aerospace standard AS9100 Rev D, in one of its sessions for its Quality Essentials Program (QEP) .

The QEP QMS session defines what a Quality Measurement System standard is, reviews the history of each standard, and provides an understanding of the core elements of each standard. QEP also reviews audit terms and principles used when conducting audits of quality systems adhering to these standards.

It’s important to note that while ISO 9001 offers numerous benefits, successful certification and implementation require commitment, resources, and a thorough understanding of the standard’s requirements. Organizations should carefully assess their readiness and engage in proper planning before pursuing ISO 9001 certification.

CONNSTEP can assist with implementing a new quality standard and/or conducting your standard’s annual audit. Contact us today.

Let’s Get Started!

Contact us today to see if CONNSTEP is a fit for your business.

Establish a Culture of Quality

Implementing appropriate continuous improvement tools can help establish a Lean culture throughout an entire organization and deliver transformative results.

Quality Essentials Program

CONNSTEP’s Quality Essentials Program is being offered to address the growing need to enhance the knowledge of quality principles among skilled manufacturing workers.

Corru-Seals recognized to fully realize the benefits inherent in the new quality standard would require a paradigm shift in the organization.

[Case Study] Strategic Roadmap Brings Synergy to Growth and Operations

Celebrating Manufacturing Excellence: The Coolest Thing Made in Connecticut

Tue, 05 Sep 2023 17:50:02 GMT

(Hartford, CT, September 6, 2024) – It is a first-of-its-kind competition for Connecticut – the Coolest Thing Made in Connecticut .

Celebrating the excellence of the state’s manufacturing industry, this single-elimination bracket-style tournament lets the public vote on their favorite Connecticut-made products.

Sixteen incredible competitors, from classic candy and tasty treats to an innovative medical device, precision military equipment, and a bell that instantly evokes holiday nostalgia will compete head-to-head over five weeks.

The winner will be revealed at the Connecticut Manufacturing Summit on Oct. 2, 2024, and officially crowned the “Coolest Thing.”

Presented by the CBIA Foundation in partnership with CONNSTEP, The Connecticut Office of Manufacturing, and with generous support from CliftonLarsonAllen, the competition highlights and celebrates the innovation of the over 4,500 manufacturers that are the backbone of Connecticut’s economy.

It provides a unique opportunity to showcase the broad array of products our world-class workforce proudly produces each day.

As the Connecticut representative of the Manufacturing Extension Partnership (MEP) , CONNSTEP is dedicated to supporting small and medium-sized manufacturers across our state and is proud to partner on the Coolest Thing Made in Connecticut.

“It’s very exciting for us,” CONNSTEP President & CEO Beatriz Gutierrez said on Fox61 News .

“Connecticut is a place of innovation. We have so much vitality and so many great ideas.

“And this is an opportunity to highlight those products and highlight that innovation and to really get people engaged in understanding what manufacturing is all about.

“The thing about manufacturing is it’s a core industry for the state, but the most important thing is it really creates excellent jobs.” Voting for the Coolest Thing Made in Connecticut continues through September 27, 2024, and nominations are already open for the 2025 competition!

Stay tuned for the announcement of this year’s winner!

Coolest Thing Made in Connecticut

The Coolest Thing Made in Connecticut celebrates the successes of this vital industry and highlights the wide range of products produced by our highly qualified, productive workforce, one of the best in the world.

[Blog] Building Resilient Supply Chains: Key Factors for Success

This website provides a forum for K-12 educators and employers to collaborate and problem solve as they refine and build high-impact manufacturing pathways. It will also inform students and families about the great career opportunities available in manufacturing.

Manufacturing Skills for Connecticut

Improve Your Manufacturing Efficiency and Quality with Problem Solving and Mistake Proofing

Wed, 16 Aug 2023 21:18:16 GMT

Continuous improvement techniques, such as problem solving and mistake proofing, apply to manufacturing and other sectors. Each technique can have significant benefits to production, efficiency, quality control, and workflow.

Problem Solving

The problem solving technique uses a structured and systematic approach to the Plan, Do, Check, Act (PDCA) cycle, also known as the Deming cycle. Organizational improvement generally follows the PDCA cycle and is very beneficial in manufacturing as it is geared toward upgrading quality, exposing waste, increasing operational efficiency, and establishing metrics that promote the right behaviors.

In the Plan phase of the PDCA model, you generally define the problem through the use of a problem statement, setting goals, and designing the solution. The Plan stage also includes mapping out the current and future states of the value stream so that everyone knows what to expect when teams try to solve a problem.

The Do function of the PDCA cycle means implementing changes to solve the problem after some experimentation. This phase of the cycle includes deciding upon a measurement to gauge effectiveness, testing the potential solution, and measuring the results.

The Check stage involves evaluating the solution to the problem to see if it worked. You confirm the results through before-and-after data comparison, review the result, measure effectiveness, and decide whether the prediction of your problem-solving solution is on track or not.

In the Act stage, the changes involved with the solution should be monitored, and if they are determined to be working well, the results should be documented. Then you need to provide training to inform others about the changes, how to properly implement them, and to ensure their sustainability.

If the solution is successful, implement it. If you did not get things right, go back to an earlier phase of the PDCA cycle and try again. When managers or team leaders decide to implement more changes, they should return to the Plan step and start the process over.

Mistake Proofing

Mistake proofing (or error proofing) refers to analyzing a manufacturing process to eliminate the possibility of product defects. It is often referred to as the lean manufacturing tool Poka-Yoke, which translates from Japanese as “avoid” (yokeru) “mistakes” (poka). The goal of performing the poka-yoke, or mistake proofing technique, is to prevent product defects from reaching customers by catching, correcting, and eliminating errors at the source. Simply asking people to “be careful” and “pay attention” doesn’t always work.

When manufacturers focus on mistake proofing processes across their operations, they improve their efficiency and ensure that product quality is at the forefront of their organization. You cannot build quality into your products by inspecting them.

Mistake proofing has proven to be a more effective way to improve quality through cost-effective and creative solutions. Errors are either prevented or caught shortly after they occur, helping to keep products with quality defects from making it to the end of the production process, resulting in higher quality of output.

By addressing errors quickly, spending time on rework can be avoided or minimized, and solutions can get to the root cause of problems before they become bigger ones. Also, with fewer errors, oversight and inspection needs are reduced.

Other benefits include:

Higher productivity – faster, more efficient, and smooth running processes result in greater overall productivity

Waste Reduction – by producing fewer defective products, fewer materials are wasted

Continuous Improvement – encouraging employees to brainstorm and solve problems and address their root cause fosters a continuous improvement environment

Training in problem solving and mistake proofing techniques can also help manufacturers who are facing an increasingly competitive business environment and higher customer expectations, in addition to streamlining production processes, increasing efficiency, and improving quality.

CONNSTEP teaches these two key principles in their CICC (Continuous Improvement Champion Certification) course , where you learn problem solving tools and how to implement a mistake proofing solution.

By utilizing these two techniques your business can achieve immediate improvements to the quality, efficiency, and productivity of your manufacturing operations, often with a culture of continuous improvement. Your processes will run more smoothly when errors are prevented, and defects are detected and solved more quickly.

Let’s Get Started!

Contact us today to see if CONNSTEP is a fit for your business.

Continuous Improvement Champion Certification (CICC)

[Poster] 5S Guide

[Case Study] Improvement to Process Flow Increases Productivity

Would Reshoring Benefit Your Manufacturing Business?

Tue, 18 Jul 2023 21:39:37 GMT

Last year, U.S manufacturers were on pace to reshore 350,000 jobs back home from overseas, the highest number in decades, according to Wall Street Journal (WSJ) reporter Dion Rabouin.

The decision to reshore is influenced by various factors such as labor costs, supply chain disruptions, logistics, intellectual property (IP) protection, political factors, and market dynamics. American companies have generated higher profits for decades by offshoring jobs to foreign countries with lower-wage workers.

Pandemic Exposes Supply Chain Weaknesses

A resurgence in the idea of reshoring surfaced during the COVID-19 pandemic, with many companies looking to avoid the widespread disruptions they encountered in their manufacturing businesses due to weaknesses in their supply chains. And with labor costs rising in China, as well as ongoing trade tensions, U.S. manufacturers had a desire for more control over their supply chains.

Some companies who faced supply chain challenges during COVID-19 prompted them to reconsider their manufacturing strategies. However, it’s important to note that the extent of reshoring from China can vary by industry, company size, and geographic location. Reshoring is not a one-size-fits-all solution and depends on multiple factors specific to each company’s circumstances.

According to Rabouin of the WSJ, over the last decade GE Appliances, Stanley Black & Decker, and Caterpillar each reshored about 2,000 jobs. Other American companies, like Intel and Micron, have announced plans for new U.S.-based manufacturing facilities with jobs that have previously been done overseas.

Worldwide Issues

The COVID-19 pandemic showed many companies their just-in-time supply chains were not strong enough or capable of handling a major disruption. Something had to be done to mitigate a repeat of such a worldwide phenomenon. In addition, geopolitical situations and uncertainties had the potential to adversely affect business operations.

Current global concerns of many industry leaders include the growing tension between China and Taiwan, the war in Ukraine, the U.S.-China trade war, and tariffs that make it more expensive for companies to ship their products around the world. Even extreme weather conditions are disrupting supply chains.

Newly passed congressional legislation offering tax breaks and other incentives is also fueling the reshoring efforts of manufacturers. This can be a major boost for the economy as American companies look to build and expand their organizations while foreign companies seek to establish or grow their presence in the U.S.

The Automation Factor

In his reporting on reshoring for the WSJ, Rabouin references MIT economics professor Daron Acemoglo, who has determined that a lot of what is motivating and encouraging a reshoring trend among U.S. manufacturers is automation. Acemoglo says that while automation can replace or augment workers in specific areas of production, it can also create jobs as more companies expand their operations and need workers to manage and operate equipment, robots, and other types of technology.

Professor Acemoglo concluded that “the overall trend of American manufacturers opening up new factories and expanding their operations, either through reshoring efforts or the result of legislative incentives, is something the whole U.S. economy should be excited about.” The implementation of automation measures will be a key element in this resurgence of the manufacturing industry.

However, like any business decision, reshoring has its advantages and disadvantages.

Advantages of Reshoring

Reduced transportation costs: By manufacturing domestically, companies can save on transportation costs associated with shipping goods from overseas. This can lead to significant savings, especially for heavy or bulky products.

Shorter lead times: Local manufacturing enables shorter lead times, allowing companies to respond quickly to market demands and changing customer preferences. Faster delivery times can lead to improved customer satisfaction and increased sales.

Enhanced quality control: Having production facilities closer to the home country allows for more effective quality control measures. Companies can closely monitor and address quality issues, reducing the risk of defects and product recalls. Improved quality can strengthen brand reputation and customer loyalty.

Greater intellectual property protection: Reshoring can provide better protection for intellectual property rights. In some offshore manufacturing locations, IP theft and counterfeiting can be a concern. By bringing production back home, companies can better safeguard their proprietary technology and trade secrets.

Job creation and economic benefits: Manufacturing reshoring can create job opportunities domestically, supporting local economies, and reducing unemployment rates. It can contribute to economic growth by generating income, tax revenue, and encouraging investment in related industries.

Disadvantages of Reshoring

Higher labor costs: One of the primary reasons companies moved manufacturing offshore was to take advantage of lower labor costs. Reshoring often means higher labor costs, which can reduce profitability and increase the final cost of products for consumers.

Skill gaps and labor shortages: Reshoring may face challenges related to the availability of skilled workers. If the necessary skills are lacking in the home country, companies may struggle to find qualified employees, leading to potential delays and increased training costs.

Infrastructure and setup costs: Establishing or expanding domestic manufacturing facilities can involve significant upfront costs, including infrastructure development, equipment purchases, and process optimization. Companies need to carefully evaluate the financial feasibility of reshoring to ensure a positive return on investment.

Disruption to existing supply chains: Shifting production from offshore locations to the home country can disrupt established supply chains. Companies may need to renegotiate contracts, find new suppliers, and adjust logistics operations. This transitional period can be challenging and lead to temporary inefficiencies.

Global market access: Manufacturing reshoring may limit access to certain global markets. Being physically closer to customers in one country may result in higher tariffs, trade barriers, or logistical challenges when exporting products to other regions. This can impact a company’s ability to compete in the international market.

Connecticut Manufacturer Reshores

Carey Manufacturing has been supplying catches, latches, and handles for military, aerospace, computer, electronics, telecom, automotive, and consumer applications since 1981 at their Cromwell, Connecticut facility. In 2015, Carey began reshoring their products from China.

The company invested nearly $3 million in laser cutters, a nitrogen generation system, and a new quality inspection area. It took a few years to streamline the process, but reshoring has created 10 new jobs and now 90% of Carey products are made and assembled in the U.S. at their Cromwell shop. The business is fully dedicated to manufacturing American-made products.

Ultimately, the decision to reshore manufacturing is complex and depends on various factors specific to each company, industry, and market. Companies need to carefully assess the advantages and disadvantages in light of their unique circumstances and long-term strategic goals.

[Case Study] Strategic Roadmap Brings Synergy to Growth and Operations

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CONNSTEP Announces New Supply Chain Optimization Program

Tue, 18 Jul 2023 21:20:44 GMT

(Hartford, CT, July 19, 2023) – CONNSTEP, the Connecticut Manufacturing Extension Partnership (MEP) center, announced today that it has received a funding award from the NIST Hollings MEP to support the creation of a database for the Connecticut Supply Chain Optimization and Intelligence Network (SCOIN) program.

This is a two-year program with a goal to improve the resiliency of supply chain companies with less than 500 employees and to provide a model to build capabilities in the MEP National Network for supply chain optimization.

NIST MEP Director Pravina Raghavan stated “Supply chain shortages are due to a lack of supply chain capacity. To address this issue, we’re creating an information system that lays out all the suppliers across various industries. This way, we can connect small suppliers to more opportunities in the supply chain.”

CONNSTEP’s efforts for the program include mapping current supplier capabilities and capacity to identify opportunities for expansion, making use of supplier scouting tools to connect Original Equipment Manufacturers (OEMs) with domestic suppliers and identify gaps in their network, and developing a scalable advisory program that will train professionals to deliver services designed to improve manufacturers resiliency.

For more information about the program, contact CONNSTEP’s project manager Eric Wright at ewright@connstep.org.

About CONNSTEP : A member of the MEP National Network, CONNSTEP is a manufacturing consultancy firm serving small-to-medium sized companies, implementing advanced business and technical solutions, and workforce strategies, that help organizations grow, improve profitability, and create sustainable competitive advantages.

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CONNSTEP Services

AI in Manufacturing Has Its Benefits

Sat, 08 Jul 2023 22:06:05 GMT

Artificial intelligence (AI) is no longer a far-fetched concept but a reality that has already begun to revolutionize various industries. AI has the potential to transform the manufacturing industry in several ways, improving productivity, reducing downtime, enhancing quality, and saving costs.

Google CEO Sundar Pichai recently commented on AI saying, “The revolution is coming faster than you know. It’s a profound technology still in its early days that will impact every product across every company.”

Getting Started with AI in Manufacturing

Introducing AI to a business can be daunting, and some manufacturers may be skeptical about whether the investment is justified. However, according to the National Institute of Standards and Technology (NIST), successful AI implementation boils down to the three P’s: problem, persona, and process.

The first step is identifying a problem or issue for AI to solve. Then the right people need to be involved for implementation to succeed. People in leadership positions, operations, IT and digital technology, and finance contribute to properly adopting AI at their company. A well-thought-out approach to process helps to determine the right way to tackle problems using AI.

The Role of AI Technologies in Manufacturing

Artificial intelligence is already improving the manufacturing process in a variety of ways. AI technologies such as machine learning and deep learning help to better analyze data and enable smarter decision-making.

Machine learning uses algorithms and data to automatically learn from underlying patterns without actually being programmed to do so. Deep learning is a derivative of machine learning that uses neural networks, which is essentially a method of AI that teaches computers to process data in a way that is inspired by the human brain, to analyze things like images and videos.

Industrial robots with AI capabilities, such as collaborative robots, aka Cobots, are autonomous objects that manage tasks on their own. Robots using AI in manufacturing are able to automate monotonous operations and eliminate or minimize human error, allowing a manufacturer to refocus workforce attention on more productive and profitable areas of their business.

The Benefits and Financial Impact of AI on Manufacturing

Implementing AI in manufacturing means using data to make actionable decisions faster and more accurately than a person can.

There are several key benefits of using artificial intelligence in manufacturing workflow, including:

Improved efficiency: AI can help optimize manufacturing processes by identifying areas for improvement and reducing waste, which can increase productivity and reduce costs.
Enhanced quality control: AI-powered systems can detect defects in real-time, preventing faulty products from leaving the factory and reducing the need for manual inspection.
Increased safety: AI can monitor workers and equipment in real-time, alerting supervisors to potential safety hazards and helping to prevent accidents.
Cost savings: By optimizing processes and reducing waste, AI can help manufacturers save money on materials, labor, and other expenses.
Improved flexibility: AI-powered systems can quickly adapt to changes in demand, allowing manufacturers to respond to market fluctuations and adjust production schedules accordingly.

From a financial perspective, NIST has indicated that AI can have a significant impact on areas such as:

Predictive maintenance. AI algorithms can analyze data from sensors, maintenance logs, and other sources to predict when equipment will need maintenance, allowing for proactive repairs, reducing downtime, and saving money.
Predictive quality. Predicting and reducing failures can yield significant cost savings.
Scrap reduction. Using metrics and data to measure and predict behavior across product specifications can minimize scrap and maximize product quality.
Increasing yield/throughput. Predicting the timing of when a machine or process will no longer meet given specifications allows a business to proactively do what’s needed to bring it back into specification, reducing quality passes.
Demand and inventory forecasting. Thoroughly understanding plant operations and the data supporting production enables an organization to forecast the demand and movement of critical parts, resulting in significant inventory savings.

AI as a Game Changer

Despite some skepticism about introducing artificial intelligence into manufacturing, the use of AI can lead to increased efficiency, improved quality control, greater safety, and significant cost savings. AI has the potential to transform productivity and performance throughout manufacturing operations, adding value and driving solutions.

Technologies including machine learning, deep learning, and robotic applications will lead the AI transformation in the manufacturing industry. According to the Capgemini Research Institute, with so much data being produced by Industry 4.0 initiatives and smart factories, manufacturers will increasingly turn to AI, particularly in the areas of production, maintenance, and quality.

The bottom line is that companies that embrace access to AI technology have a competitive advantage. The level of automation associated with this technology across the economy is just scratching the surface. AI and automation have implications for building and growing workforce skills, learning to work alongside machines, and complementing workflow and production capabilities on the shop floor today.

Let’s Get Started!

Contact us today to see if CONNSTEP is a fit for your business.

[PDF] A Guide to Digital Transformation

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Improve Your Plant Layout with Lean Flow

Tue, 04 Jul 2023 22:09:47 GMT

Have you ever wondered if you are using your manufacturing space in the best way possible? Are you running up against capacity constraints? Maybe you’re thinking of moving your manufacturing operations to a new facility?

In all of the above scenarios, your company has a perfect opportunity to benefit from using the principle of lean flow to improve your plant layout. In fact, many companies considering a move to a bigger facility or doing an additional buildout find that by simply improving their current plant layout, their existing footprint is sufficient to meet their needs.

The Value Stream Mapping Process

You likely haven’t moved any equipment or inventory since you originally moved into your building. And while you probably spend time working on improving your production processes, there are many advantages to applying that same discipline to the physical space of your operation.

The Value Stream Mapping (VSM) process is a continuous improvement tool that helps determine the best ways to implement product flow through a facility. Plant layout focuses on flow and the logistics of getting the product to market most efficiently. Combining Value Stream Mapping with the proper logistics plan can uncover valuable opportunities to streamline flow using Lean thinking.

Whether you’re moving or feeling a need to expand, VSM looks at what’s happening at the piece/part level, and then considers customer values and requirements to find efficiencies, like handling parts fewer times. The detailed nature of VSM captures every aspect of your manufacturing steps from beginning to end, including the time each step takes, any wait time between steps, and any inventory building up between each step.

Value Stream Mapping alone does not take into consideration some important space and safety issues. The process is also insensitive to the physical constraints of the facility, focusing on a high-level view of how individual piece parts go through the plant. This is where combining the process with the right plant logistics comes in since every plant is different.

Managing Plant Layout Changes Effectively

The most threatening issue in executing a new plant layout can be employee resistance to the impending change. It’s crucial that owners and major stakeholders responsible for managing the transition involve their key staff in the process.

Efforts like consolidating divisions, reorganizing existing divisions, and moving major equipment affect everyone in the facility. A team approach makes the effort that much more successful. Establishing a steering committee upfront to garner support for the plant layout changes and any process changes or moving logistics, helps get everyone on board and creates broader staff support.

Also, when you begin to scrutinize your equipment and logistics, there is a natural tendency to consider energy improvements. Energy saving incentives may be available from your local utility and can be implemented with your new plant layout for increased savings and better environmental health.

Opportunities for Lean Flow

How do you know if there are opportunities for Lean Flow in your facility?

Take a good look around your facility and ask yourself and your team leaders:

Do you think you’re utilizing space in the most efficient way?
Are you experiencing bottlenecks, poor customer service, or late deliveries (which often result from bottlenecks)?
Is your inventory in decent shape but your production workflow needs improvement?
If you could do things differently, maybe move equipment around, what would you do?

What if there were no limits or constraints? A new plant layout can capture the essence of your thinking, whether you’re redesigning an existing space or moving production to a new one. It also ensures that a majority of everything occupying space in your facility is producing product and not limiting your profits

You know your equipment, your processes, your tooling, your staff – but how well do you really understand your space, and its possibilities? A Plant Layout provides a two-dimensional view of the proposed new floor plan and a full-scale representation of where equipment, inventory, and finished goods will be located.

Contact us if you’d like to learn more.

Let’s Get Started!

Contact us today to see if CONNSTEP is a fit for your business.

[Case Study] Total Productive Maintenance Reduces Equipment Downtime and Lost Capacity

Leggett & Platt was experiencing breakdowns in a specific line of CNC lathe equipment which was affecting throughput for a key customer who was also seeking more capacity from L&P.

Quality Essentials Program

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Corru-Seals recognized to fully realize the benefits inherent in the new quality standard would require a paradigm shift in the organization.

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CONNSTEP Announces the Appointment of New Board Members

Tue, 04 Jul 2023 21:42:02 GMT

(Hartford, CT, July 5, 2023) – CONNSTEP, the Connecticut Manufacturing Extension Partnership (MEP) center, announced today the appointment of six new members to its board of directors.

Alfredo Fernandez is a partner in the law firm Shipman & Goodwin, serving as the chair of the firm’s Manufacturing Team. He is also a member of the firm’s national Environmental Practice, advising clients across industry types on environmental, health, and safety issues in all areas of business operations.

Jeffrey Granath is a General Manager at the Sargent Manufacturing division of ASSA ABLOY in New Haven, Connecticut. Sargent Manufacturing is world leading provider of commercial grade hardware.

Paul Kelley is the President of Alinabal Inc., a broadly diversified manufacturer located in Milford, Connecticut. He has held several other positions at Alinabal including Operations Manager, General Manager, and Corporate Vice President before he was appointed president of the company in 2020.

Michael Rocheleau is an Executive Vice President, Chief Financial Officer, and member of the Board of Directors for PTA Plastics Corporation in Oxford, Connecticut. His responsibilities at PTA include operations, finance, human resources, risk management, and employee benefits.

Pedro Soto is the owner, president, and Chief Executive Officer of Hygrade Precision Technologies in Plainville, Connecticut. Hygrade is a premier precision grinding, lapping, and CNC machining provider.

Shantelle Varrs-Patrick is the Deputy Commissioner – Finance and Administration, for the Department of Social Services (DSS) of the State of Connecticut. She has over 15 years of experience in finance, debt management, cash management, budget management, and auditing and compliance, with a specialization in change management and financial modeling.

“CONNSTEP is pleased to have such strong leadership and experience among its newest board members, helping to guide our organization as we support the manufacturing industry in our state,” said Beatriz Gutierrez , President & CEO of CONNSTEP.

View Our Board of Directors

CONNSTEP'S Board of Directors

Change Management of Manufacturing Emerging Technologies

Tue, 13 Jun 2023 21:48:04 GMT

There are many overarching definitions of change management, but it can essentially be distilled down to being a structured approach to implementing change in an organization. For manufacturers, it often involves identifying opportunities for improvement in their operations and processes, then planning how to implement and sustain changes associated with those improvements.

Challenges of Emerging Technologies

Manufacturers face several challenges when implementing change management in the context of emerging technologies like Artificial Intelligence (AI), the Internet of Things (IoT), and Industry 4.0. Some of the key challenges include:

Technological Complexity:

Implementing AI, IoT, and Industry 4.0 technologies involves complex systems and integration processes. Manufacturers may struggle with understanding and managing the technical intricacies of these technologies, including interoperability, data management, cybersecurity, and compatibility with existing infrastructure.

Workforce Transformation:

The introduction of AI, IoT, and Industry 4.0 technologies may require a shift in job roles and responsibilities. This transformation can lead to concerns among employees about job security, skill requirements, and changes in work processes. Manufacturers need to effectively manage these concerns and ensure proper training and reskilling programs are in place to support their workforce.

Data Management and Analytics:

With the proliferation of IoT devices and AI applications, manufacturers generate vast amounts of data. Extracting actionable insights from this data and utilizing it effectively for decision-making can be a challenge. Manufacturers need to develop robust data management and analytics capabilities to derive meaningful value from the data collected.

Change Resistance and Culture Shift:

Change management initiatives in the context of AI, IoT, and Industry 4.0 may face resistance from employees and organizational culture. There may be a reluctance to embrace new technologies, fear of job displacement, or a lack of understanding of the potential benefits. It is crucial for manufacturers to address these concerns and foster a culture of innovation, continuous learning, and adaptability.

Managing resistance to change, and mitigating risks associated with change, can be addressed by empowering employees and communicating what their roles and responsibilities are in any given process improvement. Through the systematic approach and application of knowledge, tools, and resources to deal with change associated with the adoption of emerging technologies, manufacturers will grow, be competitive, and succeed.

Manage Changes for Organizational Success

[Case Study] Strategic Roadmap Brings Synergy to Growth and Operations

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Succession Planning: Ensuring a Smooth Transition for Your Business

Wed, 12 Apr 2023 22:14:46 GMT

When it comes to succession planning for small to medium-sized manufacturers, many think it’s about the company owner finding a buyer for his or her business. In some instances, that is the case. But it can also involve identifying and preparing employees to take over key roles when a senior leader or manager retires, resigns or otherwise leaves the company.

As a manufacturer, succession planning is crucial for the long-term success of your company as it helps ensure the continuity of the business. Whether you’re a small family-owned company or a large corporation, a plan is essential for when pivotal individuals retire or when people critical to your business operations exit the company.

The Merits of Succession Planning

Having a succession plan in place in the event of a change in ownership or senior leadership provides a sense of assurance to the organization and avoids possible disruptions that could affect production, quality, sales, delivery and customer service.

The process of planning for succession involves creating a pipeline of potentially strong leaders and managers for critical roles at your company. Identifying and developing key employees capable of handling more managerial responsibility helps ensure the business continues to operate smoothly when there is a leadership change.

Reducing the Risk

Succession planning can help reduce the risk of losing tribal knowledge from departing, experienced employees. It also helps reduce the risk of losing valuable employees who may leave if they feel there is no opportunity for growth or advancement within the organization.

Preserving the skills and knowledge of a senior leader or manager who leaves the company mitigates the impact of their exit. For highly skilled workers nearing retirement or leaving for other reasons, cross-training programs like Training Within Industry Job Instruction (TWI-JI) can be beneficial.

TWI-JI is a process where skilled workers can pass along the most efficient way to perform a job correctly. This step provides critical knowledge to workers from their departing colleague, providing continued stability to workflow processes.

For potential next level leaders, exposing them to a TWI Job Relations (TWI-JR) program may reduce the risk of failure in their new role. TWI-JR teaches the essential skills needed by supervisors, team leaders, or anyone who will be leading others. The program shows how to handle problems, how to prevent them from occurring, and how to build consensus for strong relationships and positive employee relations.

Benefits of Succession Planning

Implementing a succession plan can provide many benefits for your manufacturing business, including:

Establishing a talent development pipeline by identifying high-potential employees who can evolve into future contributors and into leadership positions.
Minimizing business disruptions by quickly and efficiently filling critical roles and functions in your organization, reducing the impact of key employee departures.
Ensuring business continuity remains at its peak, leading to innovative initiatives, qualification-based decision-making, and healthy financial performance.
Increasing employee engagement and motivation by providing opportunities for growth and rewarding career pathways to move up in the organization.

Executing a Successful Plan of Action

Successful succession planning for manufacturers can be achieved by dedicating the time and resources to create a plan of action.

These steps can help you get started on your succession plan of action:

Identify critical supervisory and leadership roles at your company which require top talent to ensure stable and sustainable operations.
Determine the skills, knowledge, and competencies needed to staff those critical positions at your company.
Establish plans for high-potential employees in your organization to prepare them for possible future leadership roles.
Provide training to help probable successors develop the skills and knowledge they need to excel.
Communicate the development plans for valuable employees to make them aware of the company’s succession planning efforts and their roles in it.
Once created, frequently reviewing and updating your plan, and when the time comes, taking the necessary steps, can ensure a smooth transition.

Long-Term Business Success

The long-term success of any manufacturing business depends on a thoughtful and strategic succession plan. It starts with identifying potential successors for vital positions and developing their skills and expertise to ensure a smooth transition when the time comes.

Through targeted career development strategies, you can reduce the risk of business disruption, improve talent competencies, and increase employee engagement. By creating a comprehensive, key employee succession plan, your manufacturing business can thrive for years.

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CONNSTEP Hires New Sales Leader

Mon, 13 Mar 2023 22:17:16 GMT

(Hartford, CT, March 1, 2023) – CONNSTEP, the Connecticut Manufacturing Extension Partnership (MEP) center, announced today the hiring of a senior manufacturing sales professional to its executive team at the company.

Matthew Wurtzel is the new Director of Sales and Business Development at CONNSTEP. He will lead a team of Regional Managers who serve small to medium-sized manufacturers across Connecticut, while contributing to new business development efforts for the organization.

With more than 20 years of experience, he has an extensive manufacturing sales background in the pet food and product industry, consumer packaged goods, as well as injection mold, wood, and metal products.

“CONNSTEP welcomes Matthew to its leadership team. His innovative thinking and strategic planning expertise will strengthen the sales efforts of our Regional Managers, provide support to our manufacturers in the state, and develop business growth opportunities for our clients,” said Beatriz Gutierrez, President & CEO of CONNSTEP.

Let’s Get Started!

Contact us today to see if CONNSTEP is a fit for your business.

Proper Onboarding Can Make a Lasting Impression

Mon, 20 Feb 2023 22:20:44 GMT

You’ve extended a job offer to a prospective new employee. The good news is that they accepted the offer for the position, which is no small feat in today’s employment market. You think the hard part is done but it’s really only the beginning for your new hire. Now you need to onboard them, which is a process that is critical to retaining them for a long-term career with your company.

For companies fortunate enough to land a new recruit, it’s important to make a good impression during those initial days on the job. With employers across a wide range of industries looking to hire new talent either for job openings or to replace retiring workers, proper onboarding can provide a competitive edge to attract new workers.

Onboarding employees is an important part of the hiring process which begins with having an effective onboarding strategy in place. An employee who has a positive onboarding experience is far more likely to think they made the right decision and may tell others about it.

Initial Experience

Feeling a connection to your team and the organization itself can be an exciting and rewarding time for a new hire. They get a sense that they fit into the company culture, one that aligns with their values and passion.

According to Andrew Rahaman, a Forbes magazine business council member, one of the most important roles of onboarding is to make new hires feel valued in their new position and welcomed with open arms to the company. He states, “a strong employee onboarding process can enable the employee and organization to be more productive and get new employees working more quickly and effectively.”

A key part of an onboarding strategy is fostering meaningful relationships with colleagues on day one and having senior leadership share some of their time and attention with new hires to demonstrate the importance of engagement at all levels of the company.

The Onboarding Process

Starting a new job can be both an enthusiastic and an anxious time for many people. They’re excited about the prospects of their new role and where it will take them on their career journey. But they might also be a little nervous as they meet new people, understand new systems, and get to know their way around their new organization as they settle into their new position.

As an employer, it’s important to get the simple things right for a new hire, such as having their workstation or desk ready for them, a first day orientation schedule, business cards printed, company email set up, and maybe a company branded tchotchke such as a coffee mug or work shirt. Let them know they are welcomed and that you want them to succeed.

Forbes’ Rahaman shares these benefits of a strong employee onboarding process:

Creates meaningful connections with others who are important to this person’s role
Increases role clarity for the employee and how they fit into the overall goals
Provides a deeper understanding of the organization’s culture: do’s and don’ts
Increases employee engagement
Reduces organizational costs

You can empower new employees with the ability to think independently and offer the best way to make decisions autonomously at your company. Expose them to your culture and provide them with the knowledge and resources they need to succeed. And remember to check in with your new employee regularly to ensure they are happy, engaged, and continue to be inspired based on their onboarding experience.

Orientation as Part of Onboarding

Job orientation is generally the part of onboarding where new hires are exposed to, and learn about, company policies, benefits, and processes they’ll be following on a daily basis. The orientation process may include completing new hire HR paperwork and insurance forms, being introduced to co-workers, given the facility tour, and shown where the all-important coffee machine can be found.

Onboarding, on the other hand, is more about the process of helping new employees become acclimated to the culture of the organization. It allows new hires to gain a better perspective of their role and responsibilities, and how their contributions can make a difference to your business. And let’s not forget the investment made in time, effort, and cost with new hires. Preventing turnover protects that investment.

A company’s mission and vision statement can help new employees understand the culture. An organizational chart can show them how they fit into the company hierarchy. Sharing the business strategic plan gives them the big picture of the organization.

Job Satisfaction Leads to Job Retention

When new employees feel valued and respected, their loyalty and connection to the company can be immeasurable. Their long-term job satisfaction is largely dependent on what happens at work during the first few months in their new position, including how they can improve and grow in their role. According to a Gallup survey, employees who have enjoyed their onboarding experiences are over twice as likely to be satisfied with their workplace.

Helping new hires understand how their role at the business fits into the organizational goals goes a long way towards establishing a meaningful work environment for them. Knowing the company culture and how they can positively contribute to it not only gives them a sense of accomplishment but also a feeling that they fit right in.

New talent is hard to come by in today’s competitive employment market. Implementing an effective onboarding program helps to ensure a smooth transition, build loyalty, and retain valuable employees for the long run.

Making Sense of the 2023 Supply Chain Outlook

Sun, 27 Nov 2022 22:24:17 GMT

When it comes to supply chains, the word normal is beginning to seep into the 2023 outlook for manufacturers. Although, in a survey recently conducted by SAP, a software and technology solutions company, slightly more than half of U.S. companies said that supply chain issues will persist into 2023.

For the past few years, the world has been dealing with the fallout of the Covid pandemic and the effect it has had on business operations. And now, a multitude of factors continue to impact the manufacturing supply chain, including geopolitical events and unrest, raw material shortages, and rising fuel, energy and transportation costs.

Good News, Bad News

The latest Logistics Managers Index report predicts a return to normalization in the supply chain within a year, which is good news. However, recessionary conditions are currently running high, leading to economic moderation in many markets, which may lower demand and result in oversupply, according to ING’s 2023 Trade Outlook.

ING also reports that shipping companies are adding new container vessels to improve supply chain capacity and may potentially lead to lower container rates and shipping costs. Unfortunately, in some parts of the world, climate issues are creating falling water levels in vital shipping lanes which could adversely affect deliveries of materials and goods.

Emerging Trends

In the SAP survey, two-thirds of responding companies indicated they are moving from a just-in-time supply chain to a just-in-case supply chain, a model that carries more inventory and uses suppliers closer to the U.S versus relying on Chinese manufacturing. These organizations are hoping by increasing the inventory they carry, they will be in a better position to meet customer demand, but this may increase cost.

The SAP survey also reports that businesses are fortifying their supply chains and are preparing for potential future disruption by adopting new technology to overcome challenges, implementing new contingency measures, and prioritizing U.S. based supply solutions. Technology allows manufacturers the ability to strike the right balance through greater real-time collaboration between trading partners and operating with more resiliency and sustainability.

Shortages Persist

While the supply chain is in the initial stages of improvement, challenges aren’t going away. There are companies still struggling with shortages of parts, materials, and workers. Labor issues are still prevalent in the manufacturing sector and many other industries, and also notably in the shipping industry.

Jason Miller, associate professor of supply chain management at Michigan State University, tempers enthusiasm for a speedy recovery citing the difficulty some companies are still having securing raw materials and components. Relieving the gridlock of shipping congestion is less of an issue these days but has not been fully resolved.

Then there’s China. The Covid pandemic and trade barriers have made this once dependable partner somewhat less so these past few years. To address supply chain apprehension, supply chain risk management solutions can be used to review alternative sources of supply, if necessary, to promptly secure new vendors if key vendors become troublesome or unreliable.

Forecast Considerations

Leadership at manufacturers will have to factor in the impact of inflation on their business during their strategic planning efforts. This is where inventory management plays a crucial role as well as assessing the production costs of raw materials and components to determine if viable, less expensive substitutes are an option.

Current economic conditions have raised concerns for an eventual recession over the upcoming year. The challenge for many manufacturers will be to forecast demand during this time period. A supply chain trends article in Forbes magazine stated, “Companies that can monitor downstream demand signals and use that data to make more frequent forecasts will see their forecasting accuracy improve much faster than companies using traditional forecasting methods.”

Where Things Are Likely Headed

According to Bloomberg Economics Supply Stress Monitor, metric conditions like delivery times and producer prices that were flashing red in early 2022 are trending toward yellow and green as we enter 2023. An Oxford Economics Indicator is similarly reporting a slow and steady improvement of supply strains in the U.S., with Oxford’s lead U.S. economist Oren Klachin predicting supply chain conditions will stay on an encouraging trajectory into 2023 as weakening demand eases the stress in supply chains.

Scott Russell, SAP board member, concludes, “Managing the supply chain is a constant balancing act. Over the last couple of decades, the ‘just-in-time’ approach traded resiliency for efficiency and lower costs, which in turn made the supply chain fragile. The pandemic and the snowball effect of related disruptions exposed this fragility, which has organizations refocused on resiliency. Still, cost remains a factor, especially in the current economic environment.”

Despite the prevailing optimistic views of improving supply chain conditions, manufacturers should have a strategic plan in place, ready to implement recessionary measures, engage alternate vendors if needed, and regularly monitor inventory levels and materials availability to ensure optimum business operations.

[Case Study] Strategic Roadmap Brings Synergy to Growth and Operations

“The standard requires you to overcome roadblocks. Working with CONNSTEP we were able to advance the level of our business and bring synergy to our growth and operational plans.”

[Blog] Sustaining Your Business During Times of Crisis

Steering your manufacturing business through this rocky period is vital to its longevity. Now is not the time to use the pandemic as an excuse to compromise on quality and service.

When you're a business owner facing roadblocks that prevent your business from getting to the next level, look to these fixes to get yourself moving in the right direction.

[Blog] Four Key Stages Business Leaders Must Overcome to Change Results

Workforce Development – What’s Next?

Mon, 12 Sep 2022 22:27:05 GMT