CTMA was one of the founding chapters of the NTMA, which was formed as the National Tool & Die Manufacturer’s Association in 1943. Richard F. Moore from the Moore Special Tool Co. in Bridgeport, CT was instrumental in forming both the local and national associations.  The NTDMA was founded with five main goals. First among them was to “represent its members and industry in relationships with government.” The main focus during World War II was to convince the federal government not to draft tool and die makers as a lack of skilled labor would have had a devastating effect on the war effort. Workforce development and government relations continue to be key objectives of the association today.  In 2023, NTMA celebrates its 80th Anniversary.

Our Mission
To lead the membership toward superior competitiveness and profitability by being the total resource for information, education, training and association services for the innovative tooling and machining company.

Proposed Goals for CTMA
Membership – Increase membership by 10% or more – by leveraging the vast industry network of our existing, active member base visiting prospective new members and encouraging prospective members to attend CTMA functions.

Programs – Develop and promote several programs throughout the year that will attract increasing attendance and provide a selling opportunity for prospective members. Keep to the monthly schedule of the second Tuesday evening as much as is practical. Continue the success of the annual Golf outing. Work with sponsors where possible to drive membership value. Joint meetings with adjacent Chapters  and other CT Manufacturing Associations may be considered.

Financial – Operate in the black for the year and continue to exercise sound fiscal management of membership funds to break even at a minimum. Excess funds may be deployed in support of Programs, Membership, Workforce or Advocacy as approved by the Board of Directors.

Workforce – Continue to support training needs of the membership as well as community outreach to improve the image of the precision manufacturing industry and awareness of the opportunities available to prospective employees.  

Government Affairs – Continue to support both local and national advocacy efforts through various coalitions with State level organizations, including CMC leadership team and the NTMA (One Voice) for national issues.

President/Executive Team – Support the above initiatives as appropriate with guidance and resources. Visit as many members as possible in an effort to drive participation and awareness of the CTMA, gather input on member needs and generate referrals for the membership initiative with an overarching goal that every board member, get a new CTMA member, every year.