HARTFORD, Conn. — Connecticut will have a new chief manufacturing officer beginning next Monday.

Gov. Ned Lamont announced Thursday that he is appointing veteran manufacturing executive and entrepreneur Kirti Patel to the position.

In the role, Patel will be tasked with driving growth and innovation in the state’s manufacturing sector.

Lamont noted in a state release that manufacturing continues to be the backbone of Connecticut’s economy. He said it drives innovation, exports and well-paid careers for residents.

The governor believes Kirti will bring his decades of experience in manufacturing, product development and business leadership to the table to benefit the state.

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“He has led companies through

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