Anne Bonito
License & Applications Analyst
Department of Administrative Services
Office of State Fire Marshal
1. Can you share your current role and key responsibilities within the State of Connecticut?
I handle crane and hoisting equipment operator licenses, crane registrations, and demolition contractor licenses. In addition to reviewing online applications and renewals and issuing credentials, I provide guidance and technical assistance on license requirements and processes. Much of my day-to-day work is on our small (but mighty) Cranes & Demo team, but I also work with the State Fire Marshal and the larger team of Fire & Life Safety Specialists on various projects.
2. What motivated you to pursue a career with the State of Connecticut, and what has been your journey here?
I began my state career with the Connecticut Office of Early Childhood’s legal division, working for three years as an Office Assistant, then five years as a Bilingual Processing Technician. In 2023, I began my current position here at DAS. Some might think that the move from OEC to OSFM is a strange one, but both agencies serve the people of Connecticut and work to keep people safe, just in different ways. Throughout my ten years with the state, I have enjoyed many opportunities for learning and growth. (And in the past two years, I have learned a LOT about cranes!)
3. What achievements at the State of Connecticut are you most proud of, and what impact have they had?
Recently, I have worked with OSFM colleagues to overhaul the process for scheduling Crane Operator and Hoisting Equipment Operator licensing and recertification exams. During Fiscal Year 2025, our team administered written exams to 85% more people than in FY 2024. Feedback from the field has been very positive; faster, more efficient exam scheduling has enabled crane operators to get licensed (or recertified) faster. Helping people get to work (while staying safe and complying with state statutes and regulations) is very gratifying. When I shut down my computer at day’s end, I feel good about our work’s impact.
4. What hobbies or activities do you enjoy outside of your work, and how do they enrich your life?
When I’m not working, I enjoy reading, cooking, and spending time with family and friends. I also am a bit of a language dork – I’m fluent in English and Spanish, I’m gaining proficiency in Portuguese, and I know a decent amount of French and Italian. If DAS decides to go global, I’m ready!
5. Could you share a memorable travel experience and what made that destination special for you?
Not so much the destination but the tradition – every year, my two sisters and I rent a vacation place – just the three sisters and our four kids. When we started, the kids ranged in age from 4-10, and now they range from 13-19, so the activities have changed over the years. This year’s trip (to Emerald Isle, NC) was great, and we’re already talking about the 2026 Sisters & Cousins trip. Not sure where we’ll go, but the planning and anticipation are part of the fun.
6. What advice would you give to someone considering a career with the State of Connecticut?
Come join us! There are so many different agencies and types of work, so there’s something for everyone. Not only can you contribute your knowledge and experience, but you can also continue to grow and develop. And at the end of each day, you can be sure that the work you do has a positive impact on our state and its people.
7. What’s your favorite spot in Connecticut, and what makes it special to you?
There are really so many great places in Connecticut. If I had to name one (besides my house), I’d probably go with Elizabeth Park, on the Hartford/West Hartford line. When the COVID-19 pandemic started, I started working from home and my son (then 8) had remote school. Late each afternoon, we walked to the park for some fresh air and exercise. During the walks, we had so many amazing conversations. I guess Elizabeth Park, as the backdrop for those talks, will always be special to me.
8. If you could have any superpower, what would it be and how would you use it to make a difference?
Teleportation! I could instantly deliver lifesaving food, medicine, and supplies worldwide, rescue people from precarious situations, and more. (Of course, I could also avoid traffic, TSA checkpoints, and jet lag!)
9. Who is the person you admire, and what qualities do they possess that inspire you?
Michelle Obama – I recently read her autobiography, Becoming. She has handled public life with so much strength and dignity, despite constant criticism (of everything from her policy initiatives to her hair), vitriolic attacks, and threats to her family. You’d think all of that would have turned her into a bitter recluse, but all these years later, she’s still growing, learning, and evolving, all while managing to keep her sense of humor. I really admire her grace and tenacity.
10. What’s an interesting or fun fact?
I grew up on the Gulf Coast and lived in Alabama and Louisiana before coming to Connecticut. I joke about how in the Deep South, 50 degrees is considered cold, my first name has two syllables, and “y’all” is grammatically valid. After 20+ years in New England, my accent has faded and I know that 50 is t-shirt weather. But if anyone knows where to get a good New Orleans-style shrimp po-boy around here, please let me know.
