Paul Lavoie

Vice President, Corporate Partnerships and Innovation, University of New Haven

Paul Lavoie is a nationally recognized leader in workforce development, higher education innovation, manufacturing competitiveness, and industry-academic partnerships. He currently serves as Vice President of Corporate Partnerships and Innovation at the University of New Haven, where he leads initiatives that connect education, industry, technology, and talent development to better prepare students and strengthen the workforce pipeline.

Prior to joining UNH, Lavoie served as Connecticut's Chief Manufacturing Officer, where he was responsible for developing and executing statewide strategies to strengthen the manufacturing sector, address workforce challenges, and enhance the state's competitive position. During his tenure, he became known for building strong relationships across industry, government, workforce organizations, and educational institutions, helping to align resources around common economic and workforce goals.

A sought-after speaker and thought leader, Lavoie frequently presents on leadership, workforce development, manufacturing competitiveness, talent strategy, innovation adoption, and the future of higher education. His work focuses on helping organizations build stronger talent pipelines, embrace change, and create cultures that develop both performance and potential.