WAI New England Chapter Hosts Successful Educational Event at Accel International

The Wire Association International (WAI) New England Chapter held its annual educational event on Nov. 7 at Accel International Holdings in Cheshire, Connecticut, followed by a lively networking dinner. The gathering drew 46 attendees representing 30 companies, including WAI staff, and highlighted innovation, education, and collaboration across the wire and cable industry.

Behind-the-Scenes at Accel International

The host company made a great impression before the facility tour even began. Attendees enjoyed a welcoming half-hour reception in Accel’s lobby, complete with gourmet snacks and coffee from Green Kettle Coffee Company.

Tony Oh, CEO and Founder of Accel International, welcomed participants and shared the company’s history before guiding small groups on a behind‑the‑scenes tour of the plant’s high-performance wire drawing operations.

The 45-minute tour showcased Accel’s advanced manufacturing technology across its three vertically integrated factories in Indiana, which include nearly 500,000 square feet of production space. The company manufactures silver-, nickel-, and tin‑plated copper and copper alloys for the wire and cable industry, with an additional fourth plant in Florida. Accel’s products serve key sectors such as aerospace, medical, telecom, and industrial applications.

WAI Chapter’s Community Contribution and Event Sponsors

During the event, the WAI New England Chapter presented a $1,000 charitable donation to Accel International for a charity of its choice. The chapter also expressed gratitude to Sjogren Industries for sponsoring the event and supporting the region’s educational initiatives.

Networking Dinner Strengthens Industry Connections

After the plant tour, participants headed to Viron Rondo Osteria, a popular Cheshire restaurant, for an evening of Italian dining and professional networking. The dinner offered a relaxed environment where attendees exchanged ideas, built new connections, and celebrated the strong sense of community within the industry.

The event drew positive feedback from participants. “You did an excellent job,” said John Rivers. “I’ve known Tony Oh for years, and I’ve never seen him so open about company operations. The restaurant choice was also perfect.”

Ryan Cabray, Chapter President and representative of Alphagary, praised the effort and coordination behind the event:

“I’d like to personally thank Lori Parent for working with Accel, WAI staff, and Viron Rondo. The evening exceeded all expectations.”

Tom Rosen of Wire & Cable Consulting, LLC also acknowledged the teamwork:

“Thank you to WAI’s Corey Flynn for coordinating key logistics with Lori and all the participating partners.”