The Bottom Line: Unitil, Allegro MicroSystems, Inc. and Connection

A roundup of news updates from public companies in NH and nationwide

UNITIL ACCEPTING APPLICATIONS FOR COLLEGE SCHOLARSHIP

Unitil, a provider of natural gas and electricity to customers in New England, is now accepting applications from graduating high school seniors pursuing an undergraduate degree in science, technology, engineering and math (STEM) fields. Applications must be received on or before March 31, 2026.

“We are proud to invest in students who are passionate about STEM and eager to shape the future through innovation and problem-solving,” said Unitil’s External Affairs Manager Amanda Vicinanzo. “Since launching the program, we have awarded over 75 scholarships, and each year we are inspired by the talent, ambition and dedication of the students who apply.”

To further support STEM education, five $5,000 scholarships will be awarded to students within its service territories in New Hampshire, Maine and Massachusetts. Students who live in and attend high school in one of Unitil’s service territories and will pursue a bachelor’s degree in a STEM field are encouraged to apply.

To learn more and to apply, visit unitil.com/scholarship.

ALLEGRO MICROSYSTEMS RECENT APPOINTMENTS

Allegro MicroSystems, Inc. (Nasdaq: ALGM), a provider of power and sensing semiconductor solutions for motion control and energy efficient systems, has promoted Ian Kent to Senior vice president of operations and Jamie Haas to vice president, chief technology officer.

Kent will oversee the company’s global manufacturing, quality and supply chain operations, including internal and external manufacturing as well as its assembly and test facility in the Philippines. He assumes responsibilities previously managed by the CEO. Kent brings 25 years of semiconductor industry experience and has held increasingly senior operational leadership roles since joining Allegro in 2023, most recently serving as vice president of operations with responsibility for global manufacturing excellence and supply chain execution.

Haas, who has more than 25 years of semiconductor design and development experience — including over two decades at Allegro — will lead the company’s technology vision, strategic technology development, and AI product and tools strategy. He also takes on CTO responsibilities formerly overseen by the CEO. Haas has played a key role in advancing next-generation technologies aligned with Allegro’s “Innovation with Purpose” strategy, and is expected to guide the company’s use of AI and machine learning to enhance chip development and accelerate product innovation.

“These promotions reflect both continuity and strength in leadership as we execute our long-term strategy,” said CEO Mike Doogue. “Ian and Jamie are the right leaders to drive our company forward.”

CONNECTION EARNS CISCO DESIGNATION

Connection (NASDAQ: CNXN) has earned Cisco Gold Provider status after successfully completing audits of its Managed Firewall and Managed XDR services, the company announced. The designation adds to its previously awarded Meraki Access service under Cisco Powered Services.

The recognition reflects compliance with Cisco Systems’ new global partner requirements for organizations using third-party delivery models. The updated standards are designed to ensure program integrity, governance and consistent service delivery for customers worldwide. Connection is the first partner globally to be audited and approved under the new framework.

To secure the Gold Provider status, Connection demonstrated expertise in delivering managed security services that help customers prevent, detect and respond to cyber threats with measurable outcomes.

Mario Castro, vice president of Americas, Cloud and AI Infrastructure at Cisco, said the designation underscores the companies’ collaboration in supporting secure AI adoption. He noted the milestone is key as Cisco advances its Secure AI Factory initiative, aimed at embedding security as the foundation for AI innovation.

Tim McGrath, president and CEO of Connection, said the achievement reinforces customer trust and validates the company’s operating model. He added that meeting Cisco’s updated audit requirements reflects Connection’s commitment to accountability, governance and measurable service outcomes.

Connection provides IT solutions to business, government, health care and education markets.