Kirti Patel is Connecticut’s chief manufacturing officer, leading the state’s efforts to support and expand the manufacturing sector through the Office of Manufacturing within the Department of Economic and Community Development. He brings more than 25 years of experience in manufacturing, product development and business leadership across the life sciences, medical imaging, medical device and semiconductor industries.
Patel previously served as president and CEO of Eppendorf Manufacturing Corp. in Enfield and as general manager and vice president of Siemens Preclinical Molecular Imaging. Earlier in his career, he co-founded Sensant Corp., a medical device company later acquired by Siemens Healthcare, and began his career at Intel working in semiconductor manufacturing and process development.
In 2025, the state’s Manufacturing Innovation Fund supported 798 small and midsize manufacturers with funding for advanced manufacturing equipment and digital tools. The program also engaged more than 10,000 students in STEM pathways. Patel said the sector continues to face workforce shortages, while opportunities lie in automation, digital transformation and improving supply chain resilience.
What qualities are most essential for effective leadership today?
Ability to lead with empathy, emotional intelligence and clarity of communication combined with a high level of adaptability and integrity.
What do you value most about living or doing business in Connecticut?
We have good people with a can-do attitude and respectful disposition, combined with a high quality of life.
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What is one change that would make Connecticut more competitive economically?
Reducing energy costs.
Go-to news media outlet:The Economist
Favorite podcast: “The Intelligence” from The Economist
Hobby or leisure activity: Spending time with my family and our 5-year-old dog; cardiovascular workouts.