University of New Haven Leader Appointed to National Leadership Role with Forward-Looking U.S. Manufacturing Institute

Paul Lavoie, vice president for innovation and applied technology at the University of New Haven, has been appointed to the Board of Directors of the newly launched American Manufacturing Futures Institute (AMFI) and named America’s Chief Manufacturing Officer, a national leadership role supporting the Institute’s manufacturing agenda.

AMFI is a new national nonprofit organization dedicated to advancing the future of U.S. manufacturing through people-centered, place-based, and policy-informed approaches. The Institute aims to strengthen American manufacturing by aligning workforce development, industrial strategy, and civic responsibility to support long-term economic resilience and national competitiveness.

Lavoie’s appointment underscores the University of New Haven’s growing national role as a leader in understanding the intersection of industry, workforce innovation, and applied research.

“As President and CEO of AMFI, I view Paul Lavoie as exactly the right fit for our Board as America’s Chief Manufacturing Officer,” said Stacey Weismiller, president and CEO of the AMFI. “He brings the rare combination of national manufacturing leadership, real-world operating experience, and a clear, action-oriented commitment to strengthening American industry. His steadfast qualities and willingness to work collaboratively will sharpen our strategy, expand our partnerships, and accelerate the impact AMFI is built to deliver.”

At the University, Lavoie is leading the development of the University’s pioneering Center for Innovation and Applied Technology, which endeavors to redefine how universities collaborate with industry to accelerate innovation, talent development, and regional economic growth.

“AMFI represents the kind of forward-looking, execution-oriented platform U.S. manufacturing needs right now,” said Lavoie. “By bringing together industry, government, and communities around shared priorities, AMFI has the potential to translate ambition into real, on-the-ground progress.”

As America’s Chief Manufacturing Officer, Lavoie will advise AMFI on industry strategy, public–private collaboration, and ecosystem development, helping to guide national conversations around the future of manufacturing and its role in community and economic vitality.

“At the University of New Haven, we are intentionally building bridges between education, industry, and public service,” said Lavoie. “AMFI aligns closely with our mission to prepare students for the future of work while helping regions and industries adapt and thrive.”

The University of New Haven has expanded its focus on applied technology through new academic programs, industry partnerships, and initiatives designed to prepare students for careers in high-growth sectors such as advanced manufacturing, robotics, cybersecurity, and data-driven innovation.

The Center for Innovation and Applied Technology will serve as a hub connecting students, faculty, industry partners, and policymakers to address real-world challenges and opportunities.

Lavoie joined the University in July 2025 after serving as the chief manufacturing officer for the State of Connecticut for more than three years. In 2024, Lavoie was named one of the Top 5 Chief Manufacturing Officers in the world by Manufacturing Digital Magazine, joining leaders from Michelin, General Motors, Ferrari, and Johnson Controls.

“Paul is a visionary leader who has an exceptional background in driving innovation and ingenuity, and he will play an influential role in supporting the efforts of the AMFI.” said President Jens Frederiksen, Ph.D. “He is also exceptionally passionate about helping to ensure our students, as he says, are better than ready when they graduate. His work with AMFI will undoubtedly increase the visibility of the University and foster new industry collaboration opportunities that enrich the work of our Center and the experiences of our students.”