Danté Bartolomeo joined the Connecticut Department of Labor in January 2019 as a deputy commissioner and was appointed the interim commissioner in June 2021 by Governor Ned Lamont. Her nomination was confirmed by the Connecticut State Senate in March 2022.
Since joining the Department of Labor, Commissioner Bartolomeo has been integrally involved in programs and services throughout the agency. As the deputy commissioner, Bartolomeo worked to expand the agency’s approach to workforce policy to incorporate the Whole Family Approach, a progression of the Two Generations (2Gen) employment initiatives. When the global pandemic hit, Bartolomeo switched gears to oversee multiple pandemic programs that were vital to Connecticut residents who lost their jobs — including establishing the agency’s new Consumer Contact Center and transitioning the American Job Centers to providing virtual services to customers.
Under Bartolomeo’s leadership, the Department has added focus on labor force development in high-demand industries, particularly though Registered Apprenticeship Programs in healthcare, teaching, and childcare. Additionally, the agency has developed stronger partnerships with other state agencies, law enforcement, and educational institutions to expand the reach of CTDOL programs and services, promote career exploration, and raise the visibility of CTDOL workforce development initiatives.
Prior to her service at the CT Department of Labor, Bartolomeo served two terms as the state senator for the 13th senatorial district representing Cheshire, Meriden, Middlefield, Middletown, and Rockfall. Her portfolio included children’s safety, access to healthcare, and education—primary school through career training. She also served on the Meriden City Council.
Bartolomeo is a proud lifelong resident of the state.
About the Commissioner
