Volume 3, Issue 2
Holiday 2025
Commissioner's Corner
Dear Legislative Partners,
As we enter the holiday season and reflect on the year coming to a close, the Department of Administrative Services remains focused on delivering results that modernize state government and strengthen our communities.
In this edition of DAS Newsline, we highlight milestones that reflect that commitment, from the opening of the new Bullard-Havens Technical High School in Bridgeport and the launch of a transparent, data-driven school construction dashboard, to continued progress in clean energy investments across the state. You’ll also see how DAS is supporting workforce development through the state’s first Registered Apprenticeship for CTDOT Transportation Maintainers and advancing digital government with the one-year anniversary of CT Gateway.
This issue also captures the spirit of the season. Our teams take pride in supporting cherished traditions like the Governor’s Residence Holiday Open House, promoting holiday fire safety through Fire Safe CT, and giving back through food and toy drives that support families across Connecticut. We are especially proud to share recent national recognition for digital innovation that underscores the value of collaboration across agencies and branches of government.
Thank you for your continued partnership and support throughout the year. We look forward to building on this momentum together in the year ahead. On behalf of everyone at DAS, I wish you and your families a safe, healthy, and happy holiday season.
Sincerely,
Michelle Gilman
Commissioner, DAS
michelle.gilman@ct.gov
New Bullard-Havens Technical High School Opens in Bridgeport
Earlier this month, students had their first day at the new Bullard-Havens Technical High School, a $199 million, state-of-the-art facility built to support 13 trade programs and prepare students for in-demand careers. The project was delivered on time and on budget through strong collaboration among DAS, CTECS, and state and local partners.
Watch the behind-the-scenes video of the new facility (LinkedIn)
New Dashboard Highlights Connecticut’s Investment in School Construction
The State of Connecticut has launched a new, interactive School Construction Grants Data Visualization Dashboard that gives residents a clear look at how the state is investing in school buildings across our communities. Since Fiscal Year 2020, Connecticut has awarded 314 school construction grants totaling nearly $4 billion, supporting projects that build, expand, and modernize public schools statewide.
Joined by Representative Christine Carpino and Cromwell Mayor James Demetriades, Lieutenant Governor Susan Bysiewicz and Department of Administrative Services Commissioner Michelle Gilman announced the new dashboard at the recently completed Cromwell Middle School, a $69 million project supported by an estimated $34 million state grant. The dashboard allows users to explore projects by town, funding level, and project type, reinforcing the state’s commitment to transparency and accountability.
DAS Brings the Holiday Magic
The Governor’s Residence Holiday Open House may be over for the season, but the work that brings it to life is worth a closer look. Each year, the DAS facilities team collaborates with dedicated partners, volunteers, and community organizations across Connecticut to transform the residence into a festive, welcoming space.
From selecting and transporting Christmas trees to coordinating décor throughout the home, this behind-the-scenes effort reflects months of planning, teamwork, and pride in showcasing Connecticut’s talent and generosity.
We’re proud to share a glimpse into the process that helps make the Holiday Open House such a cherished tradition, and we are grateful to everyone who helps make it happen.
Fire Safe CT Shares Holiday
Fire Safety Messages
Fire Safe CT is reminding Connecticut residents to take simple steps to reduce the risk of home fires and burn injuries. A new holiday fire safety video featuring State Fire Marshal Lauri Volkert and Office of the State Fire Marshal Fire and Life Safety Specialist Michael Kellett, dressed as Santa Claus, highlights key safety tips related to Christmas trees, candles, cooking, holiday lights, smoke alarms, and chimneys.
The video encourages residents to stay alert to seasonal fire risks and to practice safe habits that can help keep families and communities safe throughout the holidays. The full video is available through Fire Safe CT digital platforms.
View Holiday Fire Safety Tips with Santa 🎅 | Fire Safe CT (YouTube)
Also, as Hanukkah continues, it’s important to remember that fire risks increase during this time of year. Fire Safe CT created a short video highlighting simple steps, like practicing candle safety, using decorations properly, and staying attentive while cooking, that can help prevent common holiday fire hazards. We encourage you to watch and share the video to help keep families and communities safe throughout the season.
View Winter Holiday Fire Safety Tips: Stay Safe This Hanukkah and Beyond (YouTube)
DAS Breaks Ground on Solar Projects at Technical High Schools
The Connecticut Technical Education and Career System (CTECS), in partnership with the Department of Administrative Services (DAS), the Connecticut Green Bank, and Verogy, has begun construction on seven new solar energy projects at technical high schools across the state.
The projects will deliver a combined 4.6 megawatts of clean, renewable energy, generating nearly $6 million in lifetime energy cost savings for CTECS while reducing carbon emissions by the equivalent of approximately 2,290 metric tons annually. Installations include a mix of rooftop and carport systems at schools in Manchester, Waterbury, Hartford, Hamden, Ansonia, Danbury, and Danielson.
DAS supported the initiative through the execution of power purchase agreements, helping make the projects financially viable while advancing Connecticut’s clean energy goals. In addition to environmental and fiscal benefits, the projects incorporate workforce development opportunities, providing students with classroom and on-site learning tied to growing clean energy careers.
Holiday Giving Across Connecticut
In November, we welcomed a special guest to 450 Columbus: Connecticut Foodshare President & CEO Jason Jakubowski, who stopped by to collect full containers of nonperishable goods donated by DAS employees as part of our annual food drive. This beloved “turkey tradition” continues to make a meaningful impact — and thanks to the more than $14,000 raised by Connecticut state employees, nearly 30,000 meals will be provided to individuals and families across the state.
Then, in early December, Commissioner Michelle Gilman joined CT National Guard Adjutant General Francis Evon and partner agencies to deliver toy donations to the Hartford Armory as part of Operation E.L.F. These toys, donated by state employees, will be distributed at the Guard’s annual holiday party, bringing joy to children whose parents are deployed. This cause was important to Gov. M. Jodi Rell, and DAS is happy to play a small part in working with her family to help continue the tradition.
State Agencies Launch First Registered Apprenticeship for CTDOT Transportation Maintainers
Earlier this month, the Departments of Administrative Services, Transportation, and Labor, in partnership with the Connecticut Employees Union Independent (CEUI), recently celebrated the first class of CTDOT Transportation Maintainer Registered Apprentices. This groundbreaking initiative marks the first time Registered Apprenticeships have been integrated into Connecticut state government positions, creating a new pathway into public service.
The inaugural class completed extensive classroom and on-the-job training and is now fully licensed and prepared to perform critical highway maintenance work across the state. This innovative workforce model strengthens recruitment pipelines, supports long-term workforce sustainability, and ensures Connecticut has the skilled professionals needed to maintain vital transportation infrastructure.
CT Gateway Turns One
Launched in November 2024, CT Gateway was introduced by the Department of Administrative Services as a cloud-based portal to modernize and streamline how businesses interact with the state, beginning with the Business Access Program. The platform replaced the legacy BizNet system for key procurement-related applications and was designed to expand over time.
In its first year, CT Gateway has processed 1,219 applications—693 new submissions and 526 renewals—with 1,084 approvals issued as of November 18, 2025. The system has delivered measurable improvements, including mobile-friendly and accessible applications, real-time status updates, immediate inclusion in a public-facing directory, and faster, more predictable review timelines.
Since launch, CT Gateway has expanded to include additional procurement programs, including the Construction Contractor Prequalification Program, with more programs added and planned as the platform continues to grow. System enhancements over the past year include an upgraded directory search with expanded business details and downloadable certificates, a fully digitized site visit workflow, and improved notifications and reporting tools.
CT Gateway’s first year reflects a successful transition away from legacy technology and an ongoing investment in modern, accessible digital infrastructure that improves procurement efficiency and expands business opportunities across Connecticut.
Connecticut Crane Licensing & Inspection Program: FAQs Answered
To help operators, employers, and industry partners better understand state requirements, the Office of the State Fire Marshal within the Department of Administrative Services (DAS) released an informational video addressing frequently asked questions about the Connecticut Crane Licensing and Inspection Program.
In the video, State Fire Marshal Lauri Volkert, along with Demolition and Crane Operations Inspectors Matthew Dorso and John Naples, walk viewers through key topics including licensing requirements, how to apply, testing procedures, renewal timelines, registration of cranes, and what to do in the event of an accident.
This resource is designed to support compliance with Connecticut’s safety standards and promote safe job sites across the state.
Watch the video to learn more and get answers to common questions about crane operation in Connecticut.
National Recognition for Leadership and Digital Innovation
The Department of Administrative Services is proud to share two recent national recognitions that highlight Connecticut’s leadership in innovation and public service.
The DAS Bureau of Information Technology Solutions (BITS), in partnership with the Connecticut Department of Motor Vehicles, received a Digital Experience Award for Enterprise Solutions from the National Association of State Chief Information Officers (NASCIO) for Smart Scheduling: Elevating the DMV. This award recognizes the successful use of enterprise technology to improve service delivery, operational efficiency, and the customer experience for Connecticut residents.
In addition, Commissioner Gilman was honored by the National Association of State Administrators (NASCA) with the National Ray Walton Leadership Award, a prestigious national recognition for exceptional leadership in public administration. The award acknowledges Commissioner Gilman’s commitment to collaboration, innovation, and strengthening government operations in partnership with executive and legislative stakeholders.
Together, these awards underscore the value of strategic leadership and cross-agency collaboration in delivering effective, modern, and accountable government services.
View NASCIO Smart Scheduling Award Video (LinkedIn)
DAS Commissioner Michelle Gilman Receives National Leadership Award (CT.gov)
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