AI in Action: How CT Manufacturers Are Turning Conversation into Results

Michael Hlasyszyn

Director of IT Automation & DevOps Solutions

Artificial intelligence isn’t just for tech giants — it’s actively reshaping Connecticut’s manufacturing floor. That was the message ManufactureCT’s panel discussion, where experts and local leaders gathered to share how AI is driving measurable outcomes across the industry.

The event, moderated by Paul Gulbin (author of The AI Alchemist), featured thought-provoking insights from:

Ripi Singh, Author of Industry 4.0 for Connecticut

Ted Dinsmore, President, SphereGen

Bob Rosa, Director of Business Systems, Ulbrich Stainless Steel

Jeff Granath, General Manager, Sargent Manufacturing

4 Takeaways for Connecticut Manufacturers

1. Start Small, Win Fast

The panel emphasized experimentation. Use predictive analytics or automation to drive incremental improvements. As Bob Rosa explained, Ulbrich Steel digitized handwritten orders using web readers — not a full overhaul, just one smart step forward.

“Fail fast, fail cheap,” said Ted Dinsmore. “Quick wins drive momentum.”

2. AI Doesn’t Replace -- It Amplifies

AI is not replacing the workforce. “People are always in a swim lane,” noted Rosa, meaning that AI tools work alongside skilled workers, enhancing productivity. For aging workforces, it extends career longevity. For younger hires, it supports creative problem-solving.

3. Build Culture Before Code

Change management and learning culture were recurring themes. Companies should segment their workforce into early adopters, laggards, and skeptics — and approach each with tailored upskilling and engagement. Promoting “citizen developers” lets employees experiment and automate what they know best.

4. AI Strategy Must Be Rooted in Business Goals

“AI should not lead; it should boost your business strategy,” emphasized Singh. Investing in foundational data structures like digital twins and trustworthy ETL pipelines is essential before layering on GenAI. Avoid “ghost IT” — shadow projects lacking security or alignment.

F3 Technology Partners Can Help

At F3, we specialize in helping CT manufacturers take practical steps toward AI and automation:

Automate with Purpose: Streamline repetitive, manual processes.
Get AI-Ready: Build the right data infrastructure to support GenAI.
Support Your Team: Enable workforce transformation with training and change management.
Secure Every Step: Keep all AI usage aligned with your governance, infrastructure, and compliance.

Manufacturing leaders in Connecticut are no longer asking if AI will impact their business, but how and when. For many, the answer is now. Whether you’re a 100-year-old industrial firm or a 10-person startup, the opportunity to blend operational excellence with AI innovation is here and growing.