PAST EVENT
Shaping CT's Future: Manufacturing
Manufacturing Momentum
April 25, 2024 | 3:30 – 5:30 PM
The event successfully brought together key figures to strengthen Connecticut and U.S.-based manufacturing, highlighting its role in driving economic growth and fostering innovation. Opening speakers included Chris DiPentima, President & CEO of CBIA; Sean Kimball, Town Manager of Cheshire, Connecticut; and Scott Spatz, President of Cooperative Systems, who led an impactful “Cybersecurity Reflection Moment.”
Additional insights were shared by distinguished speakers such as Jessica Dodge, Managing Consultant for CTNext; Bill Finch, former State Senator and Mayor of Bridgeport; Jill Mayer, CEO of Bead Industries, Inc.; and Peter Lupoli, CEO of Unger Enterprises, among others.
Two engaging panel discussions, “The State of Manufacturing and Economic Development” and “Women in Manufacturing,” provided a deep dive into the industry’s challenges and opportunities. The event served as a valuable platform for stakeholders to exchange perspectives and shape strategies for advancing the manufacturing sector’s growth and prosperity within Connecticut and beyond.
Welcoming speakers
Chris DiPentima
PRESIDENT & CEO, CBIA
Jim Altman
Television Journalist, FOX 61 News
Current speakers
Jessica Dodge
Director of Innovation, DECD
Chris Allen
CEO, iCleanse
Bill Finch
Former State Senator & Mayor, City of Bridgeport, Connecticut
Jill Mayer
CEO, Bead Industries, Inc.
Derek Shoemaker
Current Principal, Precise Process. Former CEO, The Rogers Manufacturing Company
Tyler Johnson
Plant Manager, Marion Manufacturing Company, Inc.
Peter Lupoli
CEO, Unger Enterprises
Scott Spatz
President, Cooperative Systems
Cydni Zoldy
Executive Director, Manufacturing Alliance Service Corporation
Nora Sutton
Director, UConn’s Center for Advanced Engineering
Sandra Babic
Director Marketing Americas, ebm-papst Inc.
Ron Angelo
President and Chief Executive Officer, Connecticut Center for Advanced Technology Inc
Take a look at our sponsors
Our current sponsors have been instrumental in making our events possible, providing the support needed to bring together influential leaders, policymakers, and industry pioneers. Their commitment not only enhances our gatherings but also underscores their dedication to fostering progress and driving Connecticut forward.
"Shaping CT's Future has reignited people's passion and pride in our state. We're proud to work in partnership with Virtuoso to create positive change."
Anthony Anthony, Chief Marketing Officer, CT DECD
Interested in becoming a sponsor?
By partnering with us, you’ll gain visibility among influential leaders and engaged guests while demonstrating your commitment to fostering progress in our state. Be part of the movement driving Connecticut forward and making a lasting impact!
Past events
Shaping CT’s Future: MarTech & AI
The AI & MarTech Summit, the third installment of the Shaping CT’s Future series hosted by the Rebellion Group, brought together Connecticut’s leading businesses, organizations, and innovators to explore how AI and MarTech are transforming industries and driving...
Shaping CT’s Future: Sustainability
The inaugural event in our "Shaping CT’s Future" series, held in partnership with the Hartford Business Journal, focused on the crucial topic of sustainability and offered invaluable insights into its impact on Connecticut’s [industries]. Thought leaders from Quantum...
Shaping CT’s Future: Manufacturing
The event successfully brought together key figures to strengthen Connecticut and U.S.-based manufacturing, highlighting its role in driving economic growth and fostering innovation. Opening speakers included Chris DiPentima, President & CEO of CBIA; Sean Kimball,...