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

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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.

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

Produced by Miceli Productions - www.miceliproductions.com

Being a Driven Leader and Badass Manufacturing President with Brittany Isherwood, Burke Aerospace

Mar 2, 2021

This Made in America episode highlights Brittany Isherwood, President of Burke Aerospace, and her journey as a successful woman in manufacturing!

Brittany talks to Ari about the importance of taking risks in your career and the value of excellent communication, especially during tough times. She discusses her experience...

Showcasing the Strengths of CT's Technical High Schools with David Tuttle, Platt Technical High School

Feb 23, 2021

This Made in America episode spotlights David Tuttle, Department Head - Precision Machining Technology at Platt Technical High School and his passion for teaching and mentorship!

Dave talks to Ari about his manufacturing background and how it inspired him to teach. He is a strong advocate for project based learning and...

People, Planet, and Profit with Donald Droppo, Curtis Packaging

Feb 16, 2021

This Made in America episode highlights Don Droppo, President & CEO of Curtis Packaging!

Don talks to Ari about the importance of acting fast when times are tough, the benefits of switching to 100% renewable energy, and how a B corporation is the gold standard for any organization. He believes that a focus on social...

Moving Ct forward to Support Manufacturers with David Lehman, Commissioner of the DECD

Feb 9, 2021

We are welcoming back a fan-favorite in this Made in America episode, with David Lehman, Commissioner of the DECD!

Commissioner Lehman talks to Ari about some exciting updates happening within DECD and throughout government to support the economy and manufacturing, in particular. He covers how CT has navigated the...

A Great American Success Story with Victor DaCruz, DaCruz Manufacturing

Feb 2, 2021

This Made in America episode spotlights Victor DaCruz, Owner and President of DaCruz Manufacturing, and his unique company story.

Victor talks to Ari about using technology to drive business forward, getting involved in the Precision Machine Parts Association (PMPA), and the value behind CT apprenticeship programs. He...