Advanced Manufacturing Center Opens in Danbury

Western Connecticut State University and Naugatuck Valley Community College opened a $2.4 million advanced manufacturing technology center in Danbury Feb. 11.

The launch was part of the college’s Advanced Manufacturing Technology Center program, where students can earn nationally recognized credentials.

The 3,000 square-foot, $2.4 million facility—equipped with state-of-the-art equipment and technology—will enroll twenty-four students, with the potential to reach seventy-two graduates per year.

“Connecticut has the potential to be a world leader in manufacturing, and it’s programs like these that will help us get there,” CBIA president and CEO Chris DiPentima said.

“Our 2022 policy priorities encourage these kinds of vocational programs, and I look forward to continuing our efforts to create a skilled workforce in Connecticut.”

Cutting-Edge

Gov. Ned Lamont called the creation of a competitive workforce a “top priority” for his administration.

“We are sending a signal to these cutting-edge companies that this is the place to be if they want to grow and flourish,” he said.

Connecticut State Colleges and Universities president Terrence Cheng highlighted the expansion of educational and economic opportunities for students, “while providing a highly educated and skilled workforce for our state’s manufacturers.”

More than one-third (35%) of business leaders told CBIA’s 2021 Survey of Connecticut Businesses the main factor hampering business growth in Connecticut was the lack of skilled applicants.

Forty-three percent said investing in education and vocational training should be the state legislature’s top policy priority in 2022.