Made in America with Ari Santiago

Each week, Ari Santiago interviews a thriving CT manufacturing leader to share the positive messages around the industry with two goals:

1) To share best practices amongst manufacturing business leaders to help each other to grow and succeed

2) To spread the word throughout the state that manufacturing is a growing part of our economy and offers exciting opportunities for incredible, well-paying careers

---------------

Ari Santiago is the President, CEO and Founder of IT Direct, a Technology Managed Service Provider in Hartford, CT. He has a passion for the manufacturing industry and the incredible impact it is making on our local economy. IT Direct focuses on providing its manufacturing clients the technology, support, and strategic guidance they need to not only meet their business goals but to drive future success.

---------------

This podcast is brought to you by IT Direct - www.gettingyouconnected.com

Produced by Miceli Productions - www.miceliproductions.com

Family Business Offers Purpose and Community with Kristen Gunther, George Schmitt & Co.

Nov 24, 2020

In this episode, Kristen Gunther, Account Executive and 5th generation family at George Schmitt & Co., speaks with Ari about what it's like growing up and working in a family business, the importance of thinking on your feet, and the endless career opportunities in manufacturing.

Kristen explains how the family business...

Crushing your ROI using Automation with CJ Bienia, Robotic Advantage

Nov 17, 2020

In this episode, CJ Bienia from Robotic Advantage, speaks with Ari about everything automation; how to get it started in your shop, crushing your ROI, and driving down costs.

CJ details how automation has improved over the last decade and where it will be in the future. He also explains how to talk to employees about...

Serving and Growing CT Manufacturers with Bonnie Del Conte, CONNSTEP

Nov 10, 2020

In this pre-COVID episode, learn what CONNSTEP can do to help your business grow and thrive.

Bonnie DelConte, President & CEO of CONNSTEP, speaks with Ari about the evolution of CONNSTEP and their 3 main services: growth, continuous improvement and technology.

This fantastic nonprofit organization has done so much for...

A Hopeful Future for Manufacturing with Kathy Saint, Schwerdtle

Nov 3, 2020

Kathy Saint, President of Schwerdtle, talks to Ari about her optimism towards manufacturing and the educational opportunities the industry provides. They also dive into the concept of embracing technology and being ready for what comes next!

Kathy discusses the challenges of adapting to industry needs and that a shift...

Educating tomorrow's workforce with Sal Menzo, Wallingford Public Schools

Oct 27, 2020

Sal Menzo, Superintendent of Wallingford Public Schools, talks to Ari about his passion for watching students grow, building strong relationships with local manufacturing businesses, and getting involved with the community. They also discuss how diversity prepares students for life!

Sal describes the Hubcap Wallingford...