Reid Famiglietti – University of Connecticut, Mechanical Engineering
SCHOLARSHIP AMOUNT
- Southern New England District: $1,500
- PMA Educational Foundation: $750
- Total: $2,250
Reid Famiglietti, a scholarship recipient from the Southern New England District, has long been passionate about science, technology and problem-solving. From an early age, he immersed himself in hands-on activities such as building with LEGOs, working with electronics and helping repair cars alongside his father. These experiences helped cultivate a curiosity about how things work and inspired a lifelong interest in engineering and manufacturing. Discussions about technology, aviation and innovation further fueled his desire to learn, build and solve complex problems.
Reid’s interest in design and manufacturing began to take shape during middle school when he co-founded a TinkerCAD Club focused on 3D printing and computer-aided design (CAD). Through this experience, he gained foundational skills in design and engineering while developing an appreciation for the process of turning ideas into physical products. His interest continued to grow through participation in technology education courses and engineering-related activities.
In eighth grade, Reid joined FIRST Robotics Competition (FRC) Team #3461, where he became deeply involved in designing, manufacturing and operating competitive robots. His dedication and leadership allowed him to advance from Design Lead to Team Captain, and he continues to give back as a mentor to younger team members. Through robotics, Reid gained hands-on experience working with manufacturing equipment and collaborating with toolmakers from the team’s sponsor company to fabricate robot components. The rigorous competition environment challenged him to solve complex engineering problems under pressure while learning valuable lessons about teamwork, perseverance and innovation.
During high school, Reid further developed his engineering knowledge through the Project Lead The Way (PLTW) program, an honors-level engineering curriculum that he completed throughout all four years. These courses strengthened his technical abilities and expanded his understanding of engineering principles and manufacturing processes. A lesson from one of his teachers became particularly influential: “If you don’t know, that’s a problem— one solved by asking.” This philosophy emphasized the importance of seeking knowledge, understanding challenges thoroughly and never allowing uncertainty to become an obstacle to improvement.
High school ultimately solidified Reid’s decision to pursue a career in engineering and manufacturing. One of his most impactful experiences was an independent study project during which he trained directly with HAAS personnel. He assisted in setting up tooling, creating fixtures and developing programs for a new HAAS MiniMill. This opportunity provided firsthand exposure to advanced manufacturing processes and reinforced his passion for precision machining and production.
Following graduation, Reid worked at Edson Manufacturing as a toolroom assistant, where he gained valuable industry experience and expanded his understanding of manufacturing operations. After 18 months, he joined Marion Manufacturing, where he applied his knowledge of CAD, CAM and machining to real-world production challenges. In this role, he improved workholding systems, conducted production runs on CNC equipment and manufactured precision progressive die components using CNC milling, CNC turning and EDM processes. These experiences allowed him to see firsthand the complexity, craftsmanship and technical expertise required in modern manufacturing.
Currently pursuing his education at the University of Connecticut, Reid remains fascinated by the manufacturing processes behind everyday products. Seeing the complexity involved in producing even simple items has strengthened his appreciation for the industry and motivated him to continue expanding his knowledge. He is committed to applying engineering principles and manufacturing innovation to solve meaningful challenges and improve the world around him. With a strong foundation of technical experience, leadership and hands-on problem-solving, Reid is well positioned to make significant contributions to the future of manufacturing and engineering.
The Precision Metalforming Association Educational Foundation (PMAEF) proudly congratulates Reid Famiglietti on being selected as a scholarship recipient. His passion for engineering, leadership in robotics and commitment to manufacturing excellence make him highly deserving of this recognition. PMAEF wishes Reid continued success at the University of Connecticut and throughout his future career.