CONNSTEP Organizational Announcement

October 29, 2024
Blue banner with white text:

By: Amanda Beaulieu

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 the CONNSTEP Team Here

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. 

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.

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

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