Hartford, Connecticut, USA: Kirti Patel has been named the next chief manufacturing officer for the state of Connecticut. He will officially step into the role on September 15, taking over from Paul Lavoie.
The appointment was announced by Governor Ned Lamont, who emphasized the importance of this position in boosting the state’s manufacturing industry. The office, located within the Connecticut Department of Economic and Community Development, plays a central role in driving innovation, strengthening the workforce, supporting collaboration between companies, and ensuring local manufacturers remain competitive worldwide while contributing to sustainable economic growth
Patel comes with more than 25 years of global leadership experience in industries such as life sciences, healthcare imaging, medical devices, and semiconductors. Most recently, he served as president and board director of Eppendorf Manufacturing Corporation in Enfield, Connecticut, where he oversaw operations across North America.
During his tenure, the company launched several new product lines, expanded its facility in Connecticut with a $20 million investment, and recorded nearly 90% business growth between 2014 and 2022.
Highlighting the appointment, Governor Lamont said:
“Kirti brings decades of global expertise in manufacturing, product development, and executive leadership. He has successfully guided companies through complex transitions, expanded product offerings for key industries, and built strong relationships across stakeholders. I am confident that his leadership will further strengthen Connecticut’s manufacturing landscape and keep the state at the forefront of advanced manufacturing.”
Earlier in his career, Patel co-founded Sensant Corporation, a medical device start-up later acquired by Siemens Healthcare, where he went on to lead its global preclinical imaging division. He also began his professional journey at Intel Corporation, gaining extensive experience in semiconductor manufacturing and advanced lithography processes.
Beyond his corporate roles, Patel is actively engaged in community and academic initiatives. He serves as board president of Simsbury – A Better Chance, which supports minority students in higher education, and also mentors start-ups through Yale Ventures and the University of Connecticut’s Technology Incubation Program.
Expressing his gratitude, Patel said:
“I am truly honored by Governor Lamont’s trust in appointing me to this role. Connecticut is home to a world-class workforce, innovative companies, and strong academic partners. I look forward to working with manufacturers across the state to build stronger collaboration, enhance capacity, and ensure our sector thrives on a global stage.”
Patel’s academic background includes an MBA from the Wharton School, MS degrees from Stanford University and UC Davis, and a BS from Mangalore University in India.
