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A14 HARTFORDBUSINESS.COM | AUGUST 21, 2023 40 UNDER FORTY | 2023 Kristi Oki is the program innovation manager at the Connecticut Center for Advanced Technology. She launched and leads CCAT's program management office and drives organizational improvements and innovation. Oki develops processes, tools and data analysis for state and federal programs that advance technology adoption, boost career development and empower our future workforce. A graduate of Yale and MIT, Oki directed STEM educational programs and served as an engineer for CCAT's Advanced Design Automation Metrology Lab. What's been your biggest professional accomplishment so far in your career? I recently led the implementation of our new customer relationship management system and collaborated with all departments to identify needs and integrate data from across the organization. The system has improved data accessibility, reduced data silos and streamlined administrative processes to help operations become more efficient and data informed. How are you involved in the community? I enjoy opportunities to connect with stu- dents and young adults to help them explore STEM pathways. I have been involved with the Society of Women Engineers and Society of Hispanic Professional Engineers. As a BIPOC woman in STEM, I hope to encourage and empower the next generation of talent. What do you like to do outside of work? I enjoy creative activities such as calligraphy and embroidery. I also appreciate reading, board games and spending time with family. Why do you deserve to be a 40 Under Forty? • Launched the creation of CCAT's Program Innovation Office. • Led projects to help demonstrate technology to Connecticut manufacturers in areas including mixed reality, industrial internet of things and computed tomography. • Presented workshops and tours for com- munity audiences highlighting advanced manufacturing technologies and career opportunities. • Managed the Young Manufacturers Academy program, impacting over 1,700 Connecticut middle school students annually, with a focus on underrepresented populations in the STEM fields. Anastasia Nicolella is a risk and financial advisory IT and specialized assurance senior manager at Deloitte & Touche LLP with more than 10 years of experience serving public and private clients within the energy, resources and industrials and manufacturing industries. Nicolella has dedicated her career at Deloitte to the pursuit of audit quality, and is regarded for her project management abili- ties, technical acumen and teaming skills. What's been your biggest professional accomplishment so far in your career? Being promoted to senior manager in one of the largest professional services organizations is one of my biggest accom- plishments. Working at Deloitte has allowed me to serve clients in various industries and team with colleagues to drive continuous improvement and deliver high-quality audit results. How are you involved in the community? In my personal time, I revitalize and ren- ovate abandoned or neglected apartment buildings to help further access to afford- able housing. I am also an active supporter of local cat rescues, where I volunteer and help with adoptions of medically chal- lenged cats. What do you like to do outside of work? I am a dancer and aerialist and am often practicing at home or with friends at the studio. I really enjoy going to local restaurants with my husband, but I also appreciate staying in with a home-cooked meal and a movie. Why do you deserve to be a 40 Under Forty? • Demonstrates leadership through deliv- ering high-quality audits and exceptional client service. • My approach to fostering a positive work environment and mentorship of staff has been a critical factor in the retention and development of talent. • A champion of "work-life integration," and works with teams to help them be suc- cessful both professionally and personally. • Works to provide fair and affordable housing in local communities. Anastasia Nicolella Age: 32 Company: Deloitte & Touche LLP Title: Senior Manager No. of years with current company: 10 Town where I live: Suffield Town where I work: Hartford College: University of Connecticut Highest degree: Bachelor's degree in accounting, CPA Kristi Oki Age: 31 Company: Connecticut Center for Ad- vanced Technology Inc. Title: Program Innovation Manager No. of years with current company: 6 Town where I live: Wallingford Town where I work: East Hartford College: Yale University Highest degree: Master's degree in mechanical engineering, MIT Leadership that inspires Leaders are people who achieve the unexpected and have the vision and integrity to create an impact that matters in their organizations and their communities. Deloitte is proud to recognize all 40 Under Forty recipients, including our own, Anastasia Nicolella, Senior Manager, Deloitte & Touche LLP. www.deloitte.com Copyright © 2023 Deloitte Development LLC. All rights reserved.