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On September 11, leaders from across Connecticut’s manufacturing ecosystem came together at the Connecticut Convention Center for the 2nd Annual Connecticut Manufacturing Innovation Forum. Emceed by Fox61 anchors Sarah Sanchez and Jim Altman, this year’s event expanded in scope and scale—bringing together manufacturers, educators, policymakers, students, and technology experts to showcase the strength and resilience of our state’s industrial base.
Presented by the Connecticut Manufacturing Innovation Fund, the Forum was curated by a planning committee representing the CT DECD Office of Manufacturing, American Manufacturing Hall of Fame, CCAT, CONNSTEP, the U.S. Small Business Administration, and ReadyCT—a collaboration that reflects the breadth of organizations working together to strengthen manufacturing in our state.
The Forum featured Governor Ned Lamont’s announcement of Connecticut’s new Chief Manufacturing Officer, Kirti Patel, keynote speakers, expert-led breakout sessions, and the induction of TRUMPF, Westminster Tool, and Ward Leonard into the American Manufacturing Hall of Fame, alongside the recognition of the Innovators of the Year. Attendees also experienced live technology demonstrations in CCAT’s Tech Island, the American Manufacturing Hall of Fame’s History Wall, and high school robotics teams showcasing the next generation of talent.
A Conversation on Innovation
Fox61’s Jim Altman caught up with Kirti Patel and Ron Angelo on the Forum floor to discuss the momentum driving Connecticut manufacturing.
“It’s seeing the crowd—the whole ecosystem is here. Innovation isn’t just about technology; it’s process, software, robotics, AI, and machine learning."
– Ron Angelo, President & CEO, CCAT
This event brings all of that together in one room. It’s less about celebration and more about highlighting the innovative things happening here in Connecticut and how we’re leading the country.”
Watch the Coverage
Fox61 captured the excitement of the day, including insights from Governor Lamont’s announcement, interviews with Kirti Patel and Ron Angelo, and a look at the technologies shaping the future of our state’s economy.
