A former Ivy League administrator is helping shape the future of advanced manufacturing in Connecticut.

Valencia Ari, known to most as "Val," is the president of Rand Machine & Fabrication in Cheshire.

Her path into manufacturing began while working part-time on weekends managing the company's finances.

"I began to understand the highly skilled employees here that produce amazing end products," Ari said.

When the owners decided to retire, Ari saw an opportunity.

"I decided to acquire Rand Machine and Fabrication," she said.

Today, the company manufactures custom precision metal components for industries including aerospace, medical, military, defense and communications.

"We build custom precision metal components for industries like aerospace, medical, military and defense and cable and wire communication," Ari said.

Rand Machine produces a wide range of specialized parts, including sheaves and pulleys made from plastic, steel and aluminum.

Ari's commitment to manufacturing didn't stop there.

When the owners of neighboring Brimatco Corp. were preparing to retire two years later, she purchased that business as well, preserving another local manufacturer.

"What we make, we are really very unique," Ari said. "We make special customization for what the customers want."

Former Brimatco owners Mark and Jim Dacunto say the company's products play an important role in the aviation industry.

"We actually make a special wrench blade that tightens nuts and bolts on hard-to-get-at spots on aircraft engines," they said.

The company also manufactures customized tooling designed to significantly reduce repair times.

Manufacturing remains at the center of Ari's vision for the future.

She says her goal is to preserve the legacy built by previous owners while creating opportunities for the next generation of workers.

"My goal is to, first off, honor the legacy and to continue the growth and to have more opportunities for new graduates and the local technical schools and, most importantly, for women out there," Ari said.