Manufacturing is a cornerstone of the US economy, accounting for approximately 10% of the nation’s total GDP. The industry employs more than 12.7 million workers who help to drive innovation by processing materials and parts, transforming them into the products that we use and sell worldwide.

Connecticut is among the states at the forefront of the manufacturing industry. In 2024, manufacturing careers in CT contributed $34.21 billion to the state’s GDP. And as of August 2025, the state recorded a notable 153,600 manufacturing workers.

The Connecticut manufacturing workforce needs even more skilled professionals to keep up with the evolving demands and advancements of the field. Now is your time. Read on to see manufacturing employment trends arising in Connecticut, and why the opportunities are vast in the current landscape.

The changing face of manufacturing careers in CT

There is an ongoing shortage of skilled manufacturing workers in Connecticut, despite the growing need for manufactured goods. According to the latest 2025 Connecticut Manufacturing Report, published in early October, a notable 82 percent of manufacturers report difficulty finding and retaining workers due to skills gaps.

Why do skills gaps exist? Simply put, the industry has advanced at a rapid pace, introducing more technology, automation, and AI than ever before. Workers need capabilities beyond traditionally learned trades.

As a result, Connecticut manufacturers are reimagining their hiring strategies. Rather than seeking factory workers alone, they’re actively recruiting professionals who know how to manage complex systems, think critically, and adapt quickly to change.

From electronics to chemical manufacturing, natural resources to primary metals, there are so many different subsectors within manufacturing that it’s hard not to find one that fits your interests and strengths.

Manufacturing workforce trends and opportunities

Collaboration and creativity are now essential for integrating automation and AI into production. To combat those who worry that AI is lessening job opportunities, there’s no need to fear.

The latest CBIA study shows that almost two-thirds of Connecticut manufacturers plan to add employees in 2026. Companies need people who research and prototype, since consumers and clients increasingly expect customized solutions. From aerospace and biotech to advanced materials and automation, the field is expanding in both scope and sophistication.

Manufacturing employment trends and incentives

Connecticut’s 4,591 manufacturers and skilled workforce are driving innovation across industries. To keep pace with this growth, the state’s Manufacturing Innovation Fund (MIF) provides critical support for both employers and workers.

Manufacturing workforce trends indicate that average salaries increase over time beyond keeping pace with inflation. In 2024, Connecticut manufacturers earned an average salary of $100,745, a 5.5% increase from 2023. Not to mention, employers are adopting policies to attract and retain talent, including 20% of manufacturers offering grants for apprenticeship programs, upskilling initiatives (10% offer tuition reimbursement), sign-on/stay-on bonuses, and additional PTO (16%).

Plus, nearly half of CT manufacturing employers (48%) partner with educational institutions to help reach students and connect them with careers quickly after graduation. For those who thrive in dynamic, team-oriented environments, manufacturing offers a career path where coordination, leadership, and innovation drive success.

Explore our available Manufacturing programs through Goodwin University.

Why career-ready education matters

Connecticut manufacturers are experiencing ongoing workforce shortages, even as the demand for skilled professionals grows. As tariffs, reshoring efforts, and economic shifts influence the industry, many employers are streamlining operations, expanding domestic hiring, and investing in training to close critical skills gaps.

Hands-on, career-ready education remains a top hiring priority. The 2025 CBIA report found that 23% of employers are seeking candidates with industry certificates, while 15% prefer a bachelor’s degree. These manufacturing employment trends mark a significant shift in the sector’s needs.

The Manufacturing Management degree is a program that helps you learn how to develop the skills manufacturing employers are prioritizing.

Programs in Manufacturing

Certificate programs offer a fast, affordable route to entering an industry that offers competitive wages, advancement opportunities, and long-term job stability.

CNC machining

CNC (Computer Numerical Control) machining has revolutionized modern manufacturing by combining creativity with cutting-edge technology. CNC Machining programs, at the certificate or associate degree level, prepare graduates with both theoretical understanding and practical experience.

Using computer-guided equipment to produce precise, high-quality components, CNC machinists help power industries like aerospace, defense, and medical technology. The median annual salary for machinists is $57,000, with top earners making closer to $87,660.

Quality management

As manufacturing continues to evolve through automation, AI, and advanced technology, the need for skilled professionals in quality management has never been greater.

Essentially, these specialists examine products and materials for defects or deviations from specifications. This program is offered at the associate degree level.

Manufacturing engineering

Manufacturing engineering bridges the gap between design and production, ensuring products are manufactured efficiently, safely, and to the highest standards.

Students in this field work towards an associate degree, learning how to optimize systems, improve processes, and implement new technologies across multiple manufacturing sectors.

The median annual salary for an engineer in manufacturing is $101,140, and 15% of the available jobs are in transportation engineering.

Welding

Welding is the foundation of modern fabrication and construction, joining materials to create everything from aircraft components to medical devices.

Welders trained in advanced techniques and materials are essential to Connecticut’s growing manufacturing base. The median annual salary starts at $ 47,120, with higher wages in metal ore mining and the renewable energy industry.

Manufacturing management

These specialists plan, direct, or coordinate the work activities and resources required to manufacture products in accordance with cost, quality, and quantity specifications. The median annual salary for manufacturing management specialists is $125,900.

Innovation driving the future workforce

Technology continues to reshape how professionals work in manufacturing. Automation, data analytics, and digital engagement are central to both industries, requiring professionals who can interpret data, make informed decisions, and lead innovative projects.

Goodwin’s programs emphasize these competencies through courses in manufacturing principles, quality management, more technical coursework such as materials and processing, and strategic planning and logistics.

Take the first step toward a career with Goodwin University

Within manufacturing subsectors, there is something for everyone: problem solvers, hands-on learners, detail-oriented professionals, those concerned with safety and quality control, tech-curious strategists, and people who glue organizations together.

Manufacturing is a field where curiosity meets craftsmanship and where every skill contributes to shaping the future of industry. Don’t wait to start building your skills for tomorrow’s opportunities. Take the first step toward a career with Goodwin University.

Learn more about our manufacturing programs at Goodwin University to see if manufacturing is a good career choice for you.