Hiring Are Challenges For Eastern Conn. Manufacturers

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While manufacturing is still growing in eastern Connecticut, including Electric Boat's plan to hire 3,000 this year across the entire company, there are still challenges local companies face.

There are also 25% tariffs proposed on goods from Mexico and Canada. While the tariffs were paused for a month, that provides little relief for businesses, and could impact both the economy and America's defense, U.S. Rep. Joe Courtney (D) wrote in an email.

Some local manufacturers expect the tariffs to affect them, while others are in a "wait and see" mode, Eastern Connecticut Workforce Investment Board (EWIB) President and CEO Michael Nogelo said.

Gilman Gear , a sports equipment company in Bozrah, expects to be affected by tariffs on Canada, Mexico and China. The company imports steel, aluminum and netting that comes from abroad or from other companies that import, owner Neil Gilman said.

"We are in a competitive marketplace," he said. "Our consumers are looking for the best deal, best price, and it puts tremendous pressure on us. We want to sell the product, but we have to maintain our margin."

Tariffs may motivate companies to look into more automated or AI-based solutions, CT State Quinebaug Valley Advanced Manufacturing Director Stephen Lapointe said.