East Hartford was buzzing this week as Pratt & Whitney celebrated a remarkable milestone — 100 years of innovation, leadership, and impact. Founded in 1925 by Frederick B. Rentschler, the company revolutionized aviation with its first engine, the R-1340 Wasp, an innovation that still echoes in aircraft around the world today.
What began as a bold idea to make flight more powerful and efficient has grown into a global enterprise of more than 45,000 employees, including 11,000 here in Connecticut, that continues to lead the aerospace industry forward.
At CCAT, we were proud to join in celebrating this incredible legacy — not only as neighbors, but as partners in innovation for the past two decades.
A Century of Aerospace Excellence
Pratt & Whitney’s story is deeply woven into Connecticut’s identity. From powering victory in World War II to advancing today’s most sophisticated commercial and defense aircraft, the company has set the standard for engineering excellence.
At the 100-year celebration, Governor Ned Lamont, Congressman John Larson, and East Hartford Mayor Connor Martin joined company leaders to honor the legacy that continues to shape both the state and the world.
“They put $2 billion a year into our economy. Thousands of employees, not to mention the supply chain of 100 small and not-so-small companies making it possible.” —Governor Ned Lamont
Indeed, Pratt & Whitney’s reach extends far beyond its walls — fueling the success of hundreds of manufacturers that make up Connecticut’s aerospace supply chain.
CCAT’s Shared Mission: Innovation That Strengthens the Ecosystem
For 20 years, CCAT has stood alongside Pratt & Whitney, working to strengthen the very ecosystem the company helped create.
“Our mission is to support manufacturers of all sizes to drive efficiencies and strengthen operations through applied technologies and technical training,” said Ron Angelo, CCAT’s President & CEO. “Pratt & Whitney embodies everything we stand for — innovation, quality, and commitment to excellence. Their century-long leadership has inspired generations of engineers, advanced the state’s economy, and positioned Connecticut as a global hub for aerospace manufacturing."
"We’re proud to call them a neighbor, a partner, and a model for what’s possible when innovation takes flight.”
— Ron Angelo, President & CEO, CCAT
From our Advanced Technology Center and Talent & Training Accelerator to programs that help small and mid-sized manufacturers adopt technologies pioneered by leaders like Pratt & Whitney, CCAT’s work is rooted in the same spirit of innovation that has defined Pratt for a century. Together, we’re ensuring that Connecticut’s aerospace sector — and its people — are ready for the next hundred years of progress.
A Legacy That Lifts Us All
At the celebration held at the Pratt & Whitney Hangar Museum, the pride in Connecticut’s aerospace legacy was unmistakable. Stories of families who’ve worked at Pratt for generations, of breakthroughs that changed the course of history, and of the continued drive to engineer what’s next filled the room.
As Congressman John Larson reflected, Pratt & Whitney’s story isn’t just one of engines and aircraft — it’s one of people, community, and enduring impact.
CCAT celebrates Pratt & Whitney’s extraordinary milestone and looks forward to continuing to advance innovation, inspire the next generation of engineers, and strengthen the manufacturing ecosystem that keeps Connecticut flying high.
"Connecticut is our home for a century, and our home for the future."
—Shane Eddy, President, Pratt & Whitney
Watch the coverage:
WTNH: Connecticut engine manufacturer Pratt & Whitney celebrates 100 years in business
Connecticut's Pratt & Whitney celebrates 100 year of aerospace manufacturing | fox61.com
