Hartford Business Journal

HARTFORDBUSINESS.COM | | MAY 15, 2023 27 FOCUS: SMALL BUSINESS Industry connections One of Johnson's favorite sayings is: "You can't do business from within your four walls." He put that into action by joining a host of industry and commu- nity organizations, learning from others and sharing his knowledge. He is a board member for the Advanced Manufacturing Technology Center at Naugatuck Valley Commu- nity College. He served as president of the Small Manufacturers Asso- ciation of Connecticut and recently completed 10 years of service on its board of directors and as co-chair of its education committee. Regionally, he served as a board director of the New England Spring and Metal Stamping Association and Connecticut Business & Industry Association. Nationally, he completed his term last year as chair of the national Precision Metalforming Association. In the community, he has been chairman of the Connecticut Community Foundation, where he still serves on several committees. He serves on the campaign lead- ership cabinet of United Way of Greater Waterbury and is a past board member of both the Cheshire Chamber of Commerce and Palace Theater in Waterbury. Johnson also is a volunteer for the American Lung Association, Smilow Cancer Hospital, Special Olympics cycling events, and other nonprofits. In advocating for the industry, Johnson notes progress in the view from the governor's office. Gov. Ned Lamont, he said, recog- nizes Connecticut is a leader in producing widgets. After all, Johnson said, "every battery can in America is made in Waterbury." He said under Lamont, small business has made gains, but even greater stability in the regulatory environment is needed. "Just give us a year without changes," he said. He'd like to see a greater focus on workforce development and trade-specific training. There are 4,000 manufacturers in the state and employees average $1,200 a week, according to Naugatuck Valley Community College data. But thousands of manufacturing jobs remain unfilled in the state. He's heard — and acknowledges — the challenges of doing business in Connecticut, but said the state would help itself if it focused on the good things it has to offer. "Things like the quality of life and the education system," Johnson said. Tyler Johnson (center) discusses the fine points of metal stamping with Bryce McClendon (left) and Charlie Lewis at Marion Manufacturing's facility in Cheshire. PHOTO | CONTRIBUTED Washington Trust Wealth Management® is a registered trademark of The Washington Trust Company, which has licensed its use to its parent, affiliates, and subsidiaries, including Washington Trust Advisors, Inc. Investment products are offered through Washington Trust Wealth Management. Non-deposit investment products are: not deposits; not FDIC insured; not insured by any federal government agency; not guaranteed by the Bank; may go down in value. Long-term planning for you. For them. For everyone to come. 800.582.1076

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