Executive leader brings business operations experience and a passion for community engagement to Connecticut's premier makerspace.
Business professional Aileen P. Charland has joined the Board of Directors of MakerspaceCT, bringing years of executive leadership support, operational expertise, and community involvement to the nonprofit organization dedicated to expanding access to hands-on learning, manufacturing, and entrepreneurship throughout Connecticut.
MakerspaceCT serves as a collaborative hub where students, entrepreneurs, manufacturers, artists, and hobbyists gain access to advanced equipment, educational programs, and technical training. Located in downtown Hartford’s former G. Fox building, the organization's 28,000-square-foot facility helps connect people with the skills and resources needed to build careers and bring new ideas to life.
Charland, who serves as Executive Assistant to the CEO and CFO at TRUMPF Inc., said joining the board is an opportunity to support an organization whose mission closely aligns with her belief that innovation begins with access and education.
"I've always believed that strong communities are built when people have opportunities to learn, create, and solve problems together," Charland said. "MakerspaceCT gives people those opportunities every day. Whether someone is exploring STEM for the first time, learning a new manufacturing skill, or developing a business idea, they have a place where curiosity can become something real."
Throughout her career, Charland has supported executive leadership in complex business environments while developing a reputation for organization, collaboration, and operational excellence. She has also remained active in community leadership, serving in academic and nonprofit organizations that focus on education and civic engagement.
According to MakerspaceCT, Charland has already played a meaningful role in strengthening the relationship between TRUMPF North America and the organization. Her appointment to the Board of Directors reflects her commitment to supporting programs that expand career pathways and encourage innovation across Connecticut.
"MakerspaceCT is much more than a workshop," Charland said. "It's a place where students discover new interests, entrepreneurs test ideas, and people build skills they can carry into their careers. I look forward to helping the organization continue expanding those opportunities."
MakerspaceCT offers training and access to equipment spanning advanced manufacturing, machining, woodworking, metalworking, electronics, robotics, textiles, and other technical disciplines. The organization works with schools, businesses, and community partners to make technical education more accessible while supporting Connecticut's growing manufacturing and technology sectors.
Charland believes partnerships between industry and community organizations will continue to play an important role in preparing the next generation of skilled professionals.
"When businesses, educators, and nonprofits work together, everyone benefits," she said. "People gain practical experience, employers develop stronger talent pipelines, and communities become more resilient. That's one of the things that excites me most about MakerspaceCT."
As a board member, Charland hopes to help strengthen community partnerships, encourage greater awareness of the organization's programs, and support its long-term mission of creating opportunities through hands-on learning.
"I've spent my career helping leaders stay organized so they can focus on the bigger picture," she said. "Serving on this board gives me another opportunity to contribute behind the scenes in a way that helps others succeed."
About Aileen P. Charland
Aileen P. Charland is Executive Assistant to the CEO and CFO at TRUMPF Inc. She earned her Associate's Degree from Manchester Community College and her Bachelor's degree from Eastern Connecticut State University. She serves as a board member at MakerspaceCT and has held leadership positions in academic and community organizations. Known for her organizational skills, professionalism, and commitment to operational excellence, Charland is passionate about leadership, workforce development, and helping organizations create opportunities for future generations.
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