On Tuesday, March 24, 2026, Goodwin University will host an Advanced Manufacturing Summit on its East Hartford campus in collaboration with the CT NAACP Million Jobs Campaign for the Formerly Incarcerated, part of a national workforce initiative connecting employers with justice-involved individuals seeking career opportunities through meaningful, stable employment.
As manufacturers across the state continue to experience critical labor shortages, Goodwin University is strengthening the advanced manufacturing talent pipeline through innovative partnerships and inclusive workforce development strategies. The NAACP Million Jobs Initiative aligns directly with the workforce challenges facing Connecticut’s manufacturing sector by preparing and connecting individuals who have been involved with the criminal justice system to employers seeking qualified candidates for both entry-level and skilled roles.
By expanding access to stable employment opportunities, this collaborative approach not only helps employers meet urgent workforce needs but also supports reduced recidivism, stronger families, and healthier communities.
“Connecticut manufacturers are facing real challenges when it comes to finding skilled, reliable workers,” said Dr. Clifford E. Thermer, dean of the School of Business, Technology, and Advanced Manufacturing and assistant vice president of Strategy and Business Development at Goodwin University. “Through partnerships like the NAACP Million Jobs Campaign, we have an opportunity to expand the labor pool while creating pathways to sustainable careers for individuals who are ready to contribute, grow, and succeed. This initiative is about workforce innovation, economic mobility, and doing what works for both employers and communities.”
Event details:
- Tuesday, March 24, 2026
- 9:00 a.m. – 1:00 p.m.
- 3 Pent Road, East Hartford, CT
Overview:
During the summit, employers will learn how workforce training organizations, community partners, and industry leaders can collaborate to:
- Connect employers with motivated, job-ready workers prepared to build careers in advanced manufacturing
- Expand the available labor pool
- Prepare candidates for long-term workplace success
The summit will also include an overview of the NAACP Million Jobs Initiative in Connecticut, discussion of employer partnership opportunities, and insights into employment pathways for this emerging workforce.
Forge your future
Goodwin University and the NAACP Million Jobs Campaign look forward to welcoming employers, workforce partners, and community leaders for this important conversation about strengthening Connecticut’s manufacturing workforce and expanding access to opportunity.
Ready to launch an in-demand career in manufacturing? Spark your professional success at Goodwin University — learn more about our manufacturing degree and certificate programs today!
Bri Gagné is a content developer at Goodwin University, bringing backgrounds in literary studies, creative storytelling, Universal Design for Learning (UDL), and social justice. They earned their bachelor’s degree in English Literature, Film Studies, and Gender Studies from University of Connecticut and a master’s in Elementary Education from Eastern Connecticut State University.
After teaching English abroad and locally, Bri transitioned to a full-time writing career, contributing to the University’s educational narratives and brand-building efforts. They are currently earning their Master of Fine Arts in Popular Fiction Writing and Publishing at Emerson College.