Southern Connecticut State University (SCSU), under the leadership of Dr. Colleen Bielitz, vice president of strategic initiatives and outreach, has launched two transformative initiatives aimed at empowering women in the manufacturing industry. This effort, in collaboration with the Connecticut Office of Manufacturing (OOM) and the Million Women Mentors Connecticut Chapter, underscores SCSU’s role as a thought leader and change agent for underrepresented groups in STEM fields.
Recognized for pioneering programs such as the STEM Professionals of Color and LSAMP (Louis Stokes Alliances for Minority Participation), SCSU continues to lead by example with these latest initiatives.
“At Southern, we are committed to fostering an inclusive environment where future leaders in STEM can thrive. These initiatives reflect our dedication to shaping a diverse and innovative workforce,” said Bielitz.
Million Women Mentors Database
Bielitz spearheaded the creation of the Million Women Mentors database, a free online platform that offers mentorship for women in manufacturing and other STEM fields across Connecticut.
This initiative provides unparalleled access to a robust network of mentors ready to guide, inspire, and empower. “The Million Women Mentors database fosters collaboration and knowledge-sharing among women at all levels of industry. We are truly grateful for the support from the Connecticut Office of Manufacturing [OOM],” said Bielitz.
These initiatives, recommended by the newly established ElevateHer Advisory Council, reflect OOM’s commitment to fostering a diverse and inclusive manufacturing workforce. Paul Lavoie, Connecticut’s chief manufacturing officer, emphasized the significance of these programs: “By providing outstanding mentorship and sharing inspirational stories, we are empowering women and helping them achieve their full potential in a sector critical to Connecticut’s economy,” he said.
The Manufacturing Shake-Up Podcast
The Manufacturing Shake-Up podcast, hosted by Jenny Drescher and Ellen Feldman Ornato of The Bolder Company, aims to revolutionize the manufacturing landscape for women and other underrepresented groups. Through compelling stories, valuable insights, and lessons learned from women in the field, the podcast serves as a powerful professional development tool. “We’re sharing their path into and through manufacturing so other women see what’s truly possible,” said Podcast Executive Producer, Gael Tannenbaum. New episodes are released every Tuesday.
SCSU’s proactive approach and strategic collaborations position it as a beacon of progress, driving forward the mission to diversify and strengthen our state’s manufacturing workforce.
