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F a l l 2 0 1 7 • S T U F F 3 From our Sponsors When it comes to a manufacturing career … think innovation. Think technology. Think about the state's expanding opportunities. The Connecticut Center for Advanced Technology (CCAT) is excited about manufacturing and proud to champion programs engaging Connecticut's future workforce. At CCAT, we create curriculum and implement programs to introduce middle- and high- school students to STEM-based careers. For more than 10 years, 700+ students have attended our innovative Young Manufacturers Academies, where they participate in hands-on workshops, engage in simulation-based activities and visit manufacturing facilities for insight into exciting career possibilities. As state license holder and coordinator of Connecticut Dream It. Do It., a national initiative promoting manufacturing career awareness, we are proud that the Young Manufacturers Academy program has been endorsed by the National Association of Manufacturers and is recognized as a best practice throughout the national Dream It. Do It. network. In addition, each October, beginning on national MFGDay, CCAT facilitates Connecticut. Dream It. Do It. Manufacturing Month events, to highlight manufacturing career opportunities and their significant value to the state and national economy. Specifically, CCAT hosts Manufacturing Mania and our Girls & Manufacturing program. But it's not just about what CCAT does, with the state's support, to champion manufacturing growth and future workforce engagement. We're energized that Connecticut's assistance also provides a positive environment to some 4,000 manufacturing firms employing more than 150,000 workers. These individuals represent the wide variety of key state-based manufacturing industries — each providing good-paying jobs. So again … look to the future. Manufacturing jobs in Connecticut are no dream. They are a reality — and a path to success. Elliot Ginsberg President & CEO, CCAT www.CCAT.us Advance Your Career in Manufacturing! Manufacturing is experiencing a resurgence in the U.S., and certainly in our state, due to rising costs overseas and better quality of production at home. As a result, the employment opportunity is growing with jobs that are more diverse and exciting as we witness the rise of automation and robotics in many sectors. You're seeing robots working alongside employees. The "old ways" of making things are now advancing with fresh ideas, new technology, and state- of-the-art places to work. This is good news for both business leaders and job seekers. Disruptive technology and advanced methods will enable smart owners to grow and build their organizations by empowering the workforce, focusing on innovation and new problem-solving ideas, while at the same time being efficient and Lean. As a manufacturing consulting firm, CONNSTEP recognizes the importance of attracting and retaining a talented workforce to help companies grow and stay competitive. We help new hires get quickly up-to-speed in specific areas as we understand how important it is that high-quality education and training closely aligns with the needs of employers as manufacturing continues to transform. It's never been a better time to begin an exciting career in manufacturing, working with the latest technology available. I encourage our students and others to consider a rewarding future where your talents are, and will continue to be, greatly needed. Bonnie Del Conte President, CONNSTEP Inc. www.CONNSTEP.org