​Bringing a product from idea to impact is no small feat — but with the right roadmap, it’s possible.

​This presentation will walk through the critical steps of moving from prototype development into full-scale manufacturing. FORGE — a leading resource for startups navigating the complex path from concept to commercialization — will guide participants through each stage, from market research and product validation to scaling up manufacturing operations. We’ll cover essential topics such as prototyping, design for excellence (DFX), and preparing for manufacturing readiness, along with strategies for building a sustainable, efficient supply chain. You’ll also gain insights into why early-stage planning, risk management, and quality systems are vital for ensuring product success at scale. Join us for an opportunity to learn directly from industry experts and discover the connections and resources that can help turn your innovations into reality.

​Led by Scott Longley and Trinell Ball

​Scott Longley is a Manufacturing Expert in Residence at FORGE with over 28 years of international operations experience. His expertise spans process engineering, production, and supply chain management, which he uses to advise startups as they scale. Scott has held roles at Fortune 100 companies like Apple, HP, and Sun Microsystems, managing global supply chains and manufacturing operations. He also co-founded a Net Zero Building Integrated Photovoltaic (BIPV) startup, where he designed its supply chain and manufacturing strategy.

​Trinell Ball is the Program Director for FORGE in Connecticut, where he focuses on fostering innovation among state suppliers and manufacturers, particularly in physical products. With 15 years of experience in innovation and strategic planning, Trinell has worked at Toyota's Silicon Valley operations, Leadbird (a sales and marketing technology startup), and Goodyear's Innovation Lab. He has extensive experience with new product commercialization and venture building for corporations and early-stage startups, taking ventures from 0 to 1.

​About Traction Workshops

​​Twelve workshops will be offered each academic year to support entrepreneurs at various stages of building a business idea. These workshops are open to all UConn students, and are led by experienced entrepreneurs, CCEI instructors, and UConn faculty. Learn more about the program at ccei.uconn.edu/traction.