Technical Development Committee Report
February 2026 – by Al Mangels
The NESMA Technical Development Committee (TDC) meeting was held virtually on February 11th, 2026. Here are a few updates between then and now.
We have begun working on updating the TDC “roster”, meaning those who will receive communications relative to the committee, such as meeting invitations, event announcements and reports such as this. The latest roster now includes 12 NESMA member company representatives, 20 educators, and 17 partners that represent other organizations in the regional workforce development ecosystem. If any NESMA members would like to be added to the mailing list at any time, please contact Dee Babkirk d.babkirk@nesma-usa.com or myself – we’d love to have you join and share.
Work is continuing on the SMI 204 course “Beam Spring and Spring Washer Design”, the last of a series of six SMI courses recommended for all aspiring springmakers. While it was hoped the course would launch in March of this year, it is likely to be delayed a bit but stands at about 50% complete at this time. Once completed, the focus will shift to an overall curriculum to include both classroom and hands-on material.
Meanwhile, regarding the possible springmaker program at the MASC center, and in anticipation of the development of the above-mentioned curriculum, we have received a copy of the presentation explaining the development of the new METAL finishing program at MASC courtesy of Patrick Hayden and Rich Dupont. This presentation outlines how the metal finishers established their program at MASC and will be shared with the NESMA Board for possible guidance.
Some important career events upcoming include the Manufacturing, Engineering & Technology Career Fair at Quinnipiac University School of Engineering in Hamden on March 31st, the Manufacturer ConneCTion Fair 2026 on April 23rd in Hartford, and the Manufacturing Internship Program Orientation Kickoff Event presented by CCAT and hosted at the Trumpf facility in Farmington on June 3rd.
Elsewhere around the community, Carolyn Freer discussed CCSU’s efforts to expand experiential learning opportunities for students, making internships mandatory across programs. Larry Pomerleau reported strong performance from the Connecticut Technical High School system, including high placement rates in manufacturing programs and successful integration of robotics and automation. The system is expanding with new teachers and plans for additional facilities and adult education programs.
Eileen Candels highlighted the potential of Connecticut Aerotech‘s aviation programs for adult learners, which provide state-funded training at a fraction of the cost. Eileen also discussed initiatives to engage students and educators in manufacturing, including professional development opportunities for high school teachers and coordination with the Young Manufacturing Group for summer events. She emphasized the importance of manufacturers opening their doors to schools throughout the year to showcase career opportunities beyond traditional college paths. And Eileen mentioned ongoing efforts to secure funding for professional development programs in collaboration with the Connecticut State Department of Education, which is expected to launch in the fall.
Sue Bradley announced the Connecticut VEX State Championship at their middle school on February 21st and a new trade academy initiative at Plainville High School. Jill O’Brien mentioned Kim Holley’s upcoming visit to Plainville to discuss workplace etiquette on behalf of Bristol Works. Vinnie Bartolini provided updates on Southington High School’s manufacturing classes and upcoming events.
David Batch reported on a successful job fair held at Makerspace CT on February 6th, which attracted 100 people despite harsh weather conditions, and announced upcoming skills training programs starting March 9th, including Engineering Fundamentals, Engineering Primer, Make Enable, and Girls in Game Design. David also mentioned several upcoming paid classes and events at MakerspaceCT, including Innovation Bites and a women’s woodworking class taught by Sydney Smith.
Sharon Lutkus from Naugatuck Valley Community College reported on their advanced manufacturing program and summer camp for high school students. She invited manufacturers to participate in a 2-day-a-week internship program for students that are currently available.
Nicole Milton from Capital Workforce Partners presented information about the Career Connect program for manufacturing, which offers free 8-week technology-related training courses for Connecticut residents, and discussed the Good Jobs Grant that provides up to $5,000 per employee for skills training leading to wage increases or promotions.
The next meeting of the NESMA TDC will be on tomorrow, Wednesday, March 11th from 2:00 to 3:00, and all are welcome.