My friendship with Roberto started long before Connection. We met purely by chance one evening at his birthday dinner. At the time, I had just returned from a long trip to Canada.
25 stories of energy.
Energia 25
Lucio
Battistuta
The colors of my life
I carried home the colors and landscapes of the prairies in my mind. I remember pouring so much energy into painting them on canvas, even late at night. One of those paintings became my birthday gift to Roberto, even though we had never met before. To this day, the colors of that artwork make up the Connection logo, and they remain Roberto’s absolute favorites.
Twenty-five years ago, at 39, I was working in the technical department of a metal manufacturing company. I have always had a deep passion for painting and art in general. I was born in the province of Venice, but moved to the Pordenone area when I was six. I still live there today, in the town of Porcia.
Over time, a series of opportunities and coincidences forged an even stronger bond between Roberto, Sabrina, and me. It all happened naturally, almost like kids at play. When I think about our energy and synergy, it really does feel like a game: Roberto is always the one pitching the idea, and I’m always ready to jump into a new project with him. No questions asked.
Trust is freedom. When it comes to my favorite place… it’s hard to choose just one, because the world is full of amazing spots. To me, it’s all about who you share the experience with. That’s what truly makes a difference and helps you appreciate what you have. I’ve lived through a lot, as Roberto can attest. I consider myself lucky, because I’ve learned that you can find positive energy even on a night when a storm knocks out the power. Sometimes, it just takes the glow of a candle lighting up a dear friend’s face.
If I were stranded on a desert island, I’d bring a photo of my partner, a pencil, and a notepad. I’ve been given plenty of advice in my life – after all, people tell you what to do from the moment you’re born. But the best advice I’ve ever received came from my wife. Just one word: lightness.
Renzo
Botter
My work, my world
Roberto is a genuine person whom I deeply respect, and we've built a great friendship. I’ve been working with him since the very beginning, and it’s always a pleasure. More than once, I’ve jumped in the van and delivered the materials myself. When you build that kind of relationship, a single phone call is all it takes.
When Connection started, I was probably exactly where I am right now: in my office. Back then, the company was on Via Treviso in Silea. We had a 2,000-square-meter facility, but we soon outgrew it. A lot has changed over the last 25 years. We’ve changed, and so has the world. My company has gone global, but my personal routine hasn’t changed a bit. I’m up at 5 AM, and by 6, I’m already at work.
My brothers and I started from scratch. We truly had nothing. I was the youngest. In those early days, instead of bringing home a paycheck, I poured everything into my dream. I wanted more.
And I’ve always believed in it. Making sacrifices is a part of my life and my character—it just feels normal to me. It’s something you carry inside, a trait I recognize in other entrepreneurs from my generation. Times were different back then, maybe even tougher. We’d stay at work until 10 at night. Without passion, you won’t get anywhere.
In the early days, we did a bit of everything: manufacturing, sales, factory maintenance… There were five of us brothers, and we all pitched in. The real challenge was taking that next step. We completely rethought our business model and started connecting with distributors for the first time. That’s how, one day, we put together our very first price list. It was hand-drawn – a completely homemade effort. I actually still have that brochure lying around somewhere.
The place that gives me the most energy is our facility. It took us years to get it. It’s basically my first home. I only take a few days off a year, and even then, I can’t wait to get right back.
If I were on a desert island, I’d pack gear to escape. Or I’d build something out of whatever I could find.
But one thing is for sure: I’d get away. I just can’t sit around doing nothing.
My dad taught me to be ready for sacrifice.
He showed me that if you have a goal, nothing you do is ever a burden.
He wasn’t a man of many words, and I don’t give my own children much advice either.
It’s through example that you pass down the most important lessons.
Sisto
Bravo
The Dawn of a new day
I was Connection’s tax and employment advisor from its very inception until a few years ago. That means I know Roberto and his company inside out - both the people and the numbers.
When Connection started 25 years ago, I was a curious man, open to innovation. I still am today. At the time, I was working as a director and business consultant at CNA. An innate curiosity and the drive to prove myself have always fueled my growth. Of course, teamwork is essential to achieve any result. Every client and colleague has helped me reach my professional goals.
This journey has been shaped by countless challenges. It began with opening a professional practice in an unfamiliar area with zero clients. Then came going back to university as a mature student, and finally passing the state licensing exams.
Watching a landscape at dawn always makes me feel good. I recharge my batteries whenever I spend time with my family or go for a motorcycle ride. If I were stranded on a desert island, I’d bring three books: The Name of the Rose, If This Is a Man and The Unbearable Lightness of Being. Either those, or Pablo Neruda’s poetry. The best advice I’ve ever received is to surround myself with people who are more skilled and capable than me.
Francesco
Caldart
A journey of self-discovery
Trust takes time to build. And when you earn it, you have to guard it like your most precious asset. That’s exactly what happened with Connection. My relationship with Roberto developed completely naturally, turning into a great friendship.
I’ve always been drawn to the commercial side of business. My parents ran a shop, and whenever sales reps came by, I was fascinated by their profession and lifestyle. But I’ve worn many different hats over the years. I worked as a building surveyor, and I also spent a lot of time in the sports world as a soccer referee, building great friendships with club directors and players alike.
Later on, I shifted my focus to industrial electronics.
When I first started out, the industrial parks we see today didn’t exist yet; most companies operated out of garages or small workshops. The market was completely different back then – far less structured than it is now. Along the way, many of the people I met inspired me and helped me grow. I’ve had a business partner for many years now, and we work incredibly well together. For me, building authentic relationships with people, even in the workplace, is what truly drives me.
Every now and then, I enjoy a few hours of solitude. When I’m alone, I often think about how I can do more for others. Every journey has its ups and downs, and I really struggled with the Covid restrictions. You couldn’t travel, you couldn’t visit clients, and real human connection was hard to come by…
Continuous innovation is essential. In our line of work, it’s a constant challenge. Staying ahead of the curve is what has driven our growth as a company.
There’s more than one place that gives me positive energy. For instance, I love walking in the woods. I’m always on the road for work, so I don’t get to walk much during the week. That’s why on weekends I enjoy heading into the forest, or strolling through the city in the evening.
Three things I’m taking with me on a desert island? My phone is essential, since I use it for work. Next, a shower – I really struggle if I can’t take one every morning and night. And finally… maybe a beach umbrella so I don’t get sunburnt? But the things that truly matter are the ones you carry inside wherever you go: respect for others, freedom as well as education.
My parents taught me the importance of respect. They also showed me how to believe in myself and trust others.
To be happy, it is important to have courage.
Enrico
Canzian
A smile to keep going
I joined Connection fourteen years ago, and the company has changed a lot since then. We’ve grown in size and technology, and our mindset has evolved along with it.
I work for a dynamic company that’s always chasing new challenges. This approach turns my job into a real passion. It never feels like a burden. Having the chance to challenge myself every single day is what truly motivates me. Twenty-five years ago, I was just a kid. Back then, my life was all about going to school and spending the days playing with my friends.
Of course, my life has changed a lot since then.
Working at Connection has truly helped me grow as a person. My proudest moment was being named Line Leader, because Roberto believed in me. In the months – and years – leading up to this promotion, I worked incredibly hard, and my drive to grow within the company was rewarded. The constant daily challenges are what keeps me motivated and focused throughout the workday.
I have the privilege of tackling every opportunity alongside my team. We are a strong department with a lot of character, and together we always find a way to handle new orders.
One major challenge I had to face was overcoming a severe injury in December 2017. Unfortunately, it affected my left hand – an essential tool both in my line of work and in daily life.
Luckily, it didn’t disrupt my daily routine too much. Thanks to the support of my loved ones and my own positive attitude, I’ve always managed to face life with a smile and never let anything get me down.
I don’t have a specific place that gives me positive energy. For me, it’s less about locations and more about people – the kind of people who bring a smile to your face just by looking at them, making you feel light and free of worries. I think of my two-and-a-half-year-old daughter, Celeste. At the end of the workday, I’m often exhausted and just want to get home, take a shower, and unwind. But when I walk in, she’s just there, smiling and saying, ‘Daddy, let’s play!’ In that exact moment, all my fatigue vanishes, and I just enjoy the few hours I get to spend with her.
The best advice I ever received came from my father: ‘Never give up.’
I’ve always found the strength to push forward by believing in my own abilities.
Valentino
Canzian
Water and rock
My relationship with Connection is built on well-being in the workplace and the strong bond I share with my colleagues. We are also united by a shared strategic vision focused on pursuing innovation and process improvement.
The most important thing is that over the years, I’ve never felt like just a number.
Having a direct line to the employer whenever needed is a huge privilege. Early on, my professional growth was driven by the colleagues who were with me on the shop floor fourteen years ago. They taught me the ropes of factory work.
No matter how well school prepares you, you don’t truly understand what work is until you walk through the gates and reach your workstation, taking on your own tasks and responsibilities. I’ve also had the pleasure of collaborating on several occasions with Luca, our Technical Office Manager.
We discussed technical insights, projects, and off-site installations. This gave me a much deeper understanding of how the electrotechnical industry works.
My most significant professional challenges have come with stepping into the role of Line Leader. It means managing my team – organizing the workflow, supporting them whenever needed, and hitting our company targets.
My greatest achievement has been earning my employer’s trust and the respect of my colleagues. It’s easy to say that now, but I’ve always believed in Connection. I never gave up, even during times when heavy workloads made it hard to stay fully efficient.
Rather than a specific place, it’s the sound of water that gives me positive energy. Not the ocean, but streams and rivers. In certain spots, you can hear the water crashing and rushing as the fast current flows through the rocks. When I close my eyes, the fatigue and the daily grind just vanish, replaced by a deep sense of well-being and positive energy.
The best advice I ever received? Earn the trust of those around you, and you’ll have their support when needed.
Daniele
Cesconetto
Step by Step
My strongest link to Connection is my relationship with Roberto. We share a genuine friendship that goes back many years. I even played a brief part in company life by coaching the team. After work, we would all go running together.
That’s how we trained for the half marathon in Jesolo. We ran it all together, each at their own pace.
It was a truly great journey. Looking back 25 years, I see a 20-year-old with a fierce passion for running – a love born during my military service. I was already tackling long distances, pushing well beyond the classic 42-kilometer marathon. Back then, ultramarathon pioneers inspired me, especially Lucio Bazzana and Antonio Mazzeo.
My biggest challenges over the years? Definitely the Piancavallo Indoor 12h: 102 kilometers on a 176-meter indoor track. Then there was the 6 Jours d’Antibes, covering 610 kilometers on a 1-kilometer loop, and the treadmill world record: 62 marathons in 62 consecutive days.
Finally, Everesting. A personal challenge where you repeat a single climb until you match the altitude of Mount Everest: 8,848 meters above sea level.
Mountains and woods are my natural habitat – the place I love most and where I go to recharge. Three things I couldn’t live without on a deserted island: running shoes, a book and my favorite dessert: the tiramisù.
The wisest advice I ever received: you can’t change the past, you can’t predict the future. The only time to live is today.
Luigi
Comito
True to his roots
I’ve known Roberto since he was young. We never lost touch. Twenty-five years ago, we both launched our own businesses. We’ve been rooting for each other ever since.
Before going independent, I was a driver for a building materials supplier. I always wanted to challenge myself with my own venture. In 1999, I took the leap. I founded the company I still run today, operating in the construction industry.
The ultimate driver behind my personal and professional growth? My family: my wife Carla, my daughter Anna, and my son Nicola. They are my strength.
Time at home with them fuels the positive energy I need to keep things running smoothly at work.
My journey has been a non-stop challenge.
I started as a driver and worked my way up to contractor. I built everything from scratch. In the beginning, I didn’t even know the trade, but I had the drive to succeed and challenge myself.
Ultimately, I created something of my own.
Today, the company has made a name for itself in the industry. I hit my goal, and I’m proud of it.
More than one place brings me peace. Every August, I head back to my homeland, Calabria. That’s where I find my brothers and my sea. Another source of positive energy: walking at dawn before work. Music relaxes me, but so does grilling a great steak.
If I ever end up on a deserted island, survival comes first. If I could choose three things to bring, a good knife is a must: to hunt for food, craft tools and build a shelter.
Next, my dog Floyd. Reliable and great company, he’d be the perfect partner for the adventure.
Finally, a lighter. Fire is indispensable.
The best advice I ever received came from a friend back in Calabria. His words gave me the push to leave my home region for Veneto. It was the ’80s, and life down there wasn’t easy.
In Conegliano, I had some solid support: my sisters. Soon after, I met Carla.
I’m proud of how it all turned out. I wouldn’t change a thing.
Antonio
Costantini
Strength within Stillness
Roberto is both a friend and a client. We’ve been working together for about thirteen years - practically since the day we met. Initially, he worked closely with one of my associates, though I personally handled some of his corporate training. When that associate moved on, I stepped in to take over Roberto's project roadmap.
Twenty-five years ago, when Connection was founded, I was a manager at a major fashion corporation. At the owner’s request, I joined the extended board of directors, putting me at the core of the business.
Back then, I had no wife or kids. My life revolved entirely around work. A couple of years later, I made a radical career shift to focus on what I do today: empowering people.
This personal growth stems from a training company I discovered in 2002. It provided the spark for a new career path, the very field where I still operate today.
Leaving a secure, high-paying management role to go independent was my first major challenge.
The second was going against everyone (parents, wife, and friends) to pursue my dream of empowering others.
Many more followed. Some drained my resources and health, but the energy I generated was too powerful to back down. I always emerged with my head held high, turning every setback into an opportunity.
One specific place grounds me and fuels my positive energy: a beautiful forest on the Asiago Plateau, far from roads and noise. It holds a WWI British cemetery, a deeply special spot where I feel connected to the entire universe. To me, energy is the green of the woods, the power of nature and the pure joy of helping others.
If I could only bring three things to a deserted island, I’d choose my three children.
Though they’d probably disagree.
The best advice I ever got: never be afraid to strike for the right reasons. This lesson was key to my journey.
Sabrina
Dario
Waves in the air
What I love about Connection is that I’m simply Sabry - and not just 'Roberto’s wife. I mostly connect with the team during social gatherings: company dinners, team events and casual get-togethers.
I just focus on being myself: genuine and easygoing. It’s a fine line to walk when you’re neither a coworker nor the boss.
I’ve never felt any distance between people here. Only connection and humanity. That’s exactly the culture Roberto always envisioned.
When Connection was founded, I was stepping back into life after a major health setback.
I was finally reclaiming the carefree spirit, the joy, and the energy you are meant to have in your twenties.
I went back to my role as a dental assistant, a job I still hold today. It was a time of total rebirth.
What fueled my growth, and still inspires me, is a simple drive: making sure the people around me thrive.
I’m at my best when I spark a positive connection with the people I meet – both in and out of the workplace.
My greatest life challenge was becoming someone people genuinely enjoy connecting with again. I’ve left past setbacks behind to be the best version of myself.
One place fuels my positive energy: the sea. I love watching it from above, taking in its raw power and immense scale. I felt the ultimate energy surge in Brittany. Waves crashing against high cliffs hit with incredible force, charging the air with a power you can feel both physically and mentally.
If I could only bring three things to a deserted island, I’d choose a small notebook and a pen, to let my thoughts flow effortlessly.
And finally… my husband. Is that allowed?
He’s not exactly a ‘thing,’ but I’d take him everywhere.
The best advice I ever got helped me manage expectations and avoid life’s disappointments. It made me realize that seeing things differently and connecting through emotion is a special gift, not just the standard.
Michele
Dassiè
Grounding moments
My story at Connection began in August 2006 - the historic year Italy won the World Cup. Football is one of my greatest passions. Ever since I was young, it has always fueled my positive energy.
When Connection was founded, I was just a 12-year-old middle school student, kicking a football around with friends in my spare time. Both in my studies and in sports, I always put in maximum effort – respect and dedication are my defining traits.
My school journey led me to cross paths with Connection.
Through my school, I started a collaboration that became my life’s work.
Today, I consider Connection my home. It was my first real step into the working world, and the early days weren’t easy. I was lucky to grow under Roberto’s wing. He always trusted and believed in me. I truly believe his entrepreneurial vision is what drove Connection’s exponential growth.
Recent years have brought significant changes, and the company is clearly thriving. Connection’s growth has pushed me to constantly face new challenges. Two key milestones stand out in my journey.
First, Roberto promoted me from line worker to line manager.
The second came less than a year ago, when I was entrusted with managing an additional production line.
The people I’ve shared this journey with are just as important. My colleagues, my friends, and above all, my family, who stood by me through the toughest times.
Over the years, I’ve always strived to be fair and reliable with everyone, and I’ve learned to appreciate the best in every person. What would I want with me on a deserted island? Everything that matters most to me: my wife, Marina, and my two kids, Lionel and Dylan.
They give me the strength and drive to tackle life’s challenges every single day.
Home is definitely where I recharge. Another place that fuels my positive energy is the beach facing the lighthouse in Cavallino-Treporti. My family and I spend our summer holidays there, but it’s our go-to escape all year round. It’s a place that brings us absolute peace and strength.
Gianna
Francescon
The sea, much like life
I’ve been the insurance consultant for both the company and the family since 1999. Over the years, our partnership has grown rock-solid. Twenty-five years ago - at the midpoint of my life - I had just embarked on this new personal and professional adventure.
I had taken the leap from employment to going independent as a sub-agent for a major insurance firm. I wanted to grow professionally and prove to myself that every challenge is a potential victory. But my greatest drive came from my family and, above all, my clients – their belief in me always pushed me to deliver more.
The ultimate challenge is keeping an open mind: ready to seize the opportunities of constant change while minimizing inevitable risks. Keeping my eyes firmly on the goal, I took a major leap forward in 2009, becoming a General Agent for a leading insurance company.
The sea is the place that truly represents me. I love its endless vastness, its challenges, and its storms – yet it always brings a deep sense of peace.
The sea is just like life: it is meant to be lived, shared, and loved.
My favorite place is Muggia, where we keep a small boat. It’s my true island, where I’m always surrounded by dogs. This reminds me of a story from years ago. I had gone to Connection for a consulting session, as I often did and found Roberto anxious but deeply moved. He had just discovered an abandoned, pregnant dog in the bushes. Roberto’s expression, his instant desire to shelter and care for her and his sensitivity toward that frightened little creature truly touched my heart.
Lila became a permanent part of Roberto’s life – the office mascot and a princess at home.
Personally, I could never last more than a day on a deserted island.
I thrive in a crowd and love connecting with people.
I would take with me a fishing rod or a hunting gear, my husband to support me through it, and my boat – so I could head right back to the mainland.
The best advice I ever got? Don’t take a ‘no’ personally. A friend shared it with me, and it’s been a part of me ever since.
Rudy
Lorenzetto
Music in the woods
Roberto and I have known each other for years. We’ve shared countless projects, associations, and adventures, always fueled by our signature irony and competitive spirit. Roberto is the perfect partner. His intelligence, generosity, and perfectionism always shine through - though we love to tease him about that last one.
25 years ago, I was a young man looking for work after finishing my military service. Then, I was hired by a large industrial group. That’s where I gained the technical expertise that led to my role today.
Back then, I didn’t have a family yet, but the young woman by my side was already planning our future. Life was completely different – much lighter – and I was a very different Rudy.
Today, my children fuel my growth. Engaging with a younger generation is inspiring and full of surprises, constantly demanding adaptation. It keeps me feeling alive and deeply engaged.
My biggest challenges have been both personal and professional. Raising, educating, and supporting three children – facing life’s great unknowns without a handbook on how to be a good dad. Then came the various career changes, which have always given me fresh drive.
Sometimes, life deals you blows that are hard to overcome. Like losing a loved one and being left with unanswered questions. I draw my energy from my family. When I’m with them, it doesn’t matter where we are, I can clearly feel the energy we generate together. My true safe haven is the woods I’ve visited since I was a kid. It relaxes me. It’s a healthy, familiar place where I feel completely safe.
What would I want with me on a deserted island? Definitely a ball! It helps me keeping my inner child alive. Then, a flash drive with the latest Jungle concert, Zetto’s first album and the recording of Princi’s piano recital. Also a good book, to escape into my imagination.
I’ve been lucky enough to always be surrounded by people who care about me. The most important thing is learning to listen: everyone has life experiences we can draw valuable advice from. I often think back to something my dad used to tell me: ‘in life, try to do good. The bad just happens anyway’.
Luca
Lorenzon
The scent of salt air
My journey with Connection is like an engagement that turned into a happy marriage.
First came the getting-to-know-you phase, back when I only worked Fridays and Saturdays.
Then came the steady commitment, with the ups and downs every couple faces.
We even hit a rough patch when I thought about leaving the company.
But things change. Ultimately, I realized this was the place where I could spend many more happy years.
When Connection first started, I was just a kid on a moped, studying electronics.
I did pretty well in school, but I was never the typical nerd. I got along with everyone because I was always a true team player. Back then, I dreamed of making something of myself.
Given the context, it might sound almost too perfect, but Roberto is the one who truly inspires my professional growth.
I share his vision and admire his ability to achieve his goals. To me, he’s a true role model. I want to keep growing and become the person I dreamed of being 25 years ago.
My marriage and our two kids are my main challenges right now and my wife and I are navigating them together. My daughter, in particular, completely changed how I look at the world and my career. I used to just focus on work; thanks to her, I’ve learned to respect my time, focus on what truly matters, and handle challenges with more maturity. Professionally, my biggest milestone was getting to where I am today: Technical Manager and board member. I had to fight hard against those who doubted my abilities, and making it here has been incredibly rewarding.
The sea is where I feel best, it just brings me peace. The smell of the salt air, the waves against the rocks. I love walking on the beach and taking boat trips, especially to Burano. It’s a true source of inspiration.
By the water, I’ve figured out and solved work problems, and it’s also where I proposed to my wife.
Out there, I never feel tired. I always feel motivated and ready to go.
The best advice I ever got was to keep studying. Having a solid theoretical background and a university degree really helps me with problem-solving. The worst advice? Someone once told me to switch jobs. Luckily, I didn’t listen.
Nicola
Luca
For the love of creativity
I co-founded Connection 25 years ago. I remember pushing Roberto hard to start our own business. I remember pushing for us to start our own business. In the end, he was completely on board, and luckily we went for it.
Before Connection, Roberto and I worked at the same company. We were lifelong friends – in fact, he was the one who got me the job there. Eventually, we realized we wanted to build something bigger, something of our own. That’s how we laid the groundwork for Connection.
Roberto was the right partner for me. He had that rational side I was missing, while I’ve always been more on the creative side, constantly needing change. Our energies are complementary, in a way we’ve always fueled each other’s growth.
An entrepreneur’s life is a non-stop challenge. I’ve put myself to the test many times in completely different fields, starting from scratch every single time. I view it as a personal challenge every time, it’s just what I need to be myself.
One place that fills me with positive energy is Conegliano Castle and the view you can enjoy from up there. Whenever I need some time alone, I go there to look at that view. Painting also gives me a lot of energy and makes me feel good. I often paint hearts, which have a very important meaning for me.
The best advice I’ve ever received is to always observe the people you’re dealing with to figure out how to gain their trust.
Diego
Mandarà
Freedom with a sea view
My history with Connection goes back over two decades, starting when I first became a supplier for them. Back when Connection was first founded, I was just starting out as the Area Sales Manager for Treviso, Belluno and Venice at Elettroveneta, a wholesale electrical distributor.
A lot of people inspired and fueled my growth back then. But if I had to name just one, it would be my father’s business partner, who was the Sales Director at Elettroveneta.
There is no shortage of challenges on the path to business growth. I particularly recall the strategies adopted after the global financial crisis of 2008–2009. The major challenge was to drive Elettroveneta’s development and expansion well beyond regional borders through targeted acquisitions of other companies in the same sector.
The place that, more than any other, makes me feel good and fills me with positive energy is Lignano Sabbiadoro, where I seek refuge in my free time whenever I get the chance.
Three things I would never give up – not even on a deserted island – are a white shirt, a tennis racket, and a supply of Coke, preferably Coke Zero.
The best advice I’ve ever received from anyone? Do things yourself without waiting for others to take action on your behalf.
Fabrizio
Maset
Calculations of an imperious force
In his first role, Roberto Zuccaro worked as a lab technician for the Low Voltage Directive at SSQ - a company I co-owned and later managed. He was responsible for testing electrical equipment on machinery. After the company was sold, he went independent, drawing on everything he had learned.
I’ve supported Connection right from the start, managing all the technical procedures to set up their facilities. By 1999, I had already left teaching behind for two years to focus entirely on my engineering career.
I had just wrapped up my time in politics and volunteering at the ‘Renzo e Pia Fiorot’ Cancer Association, where I spent years leading environmental outreach. Around the same time, I started managing a small agricultural business that has now grown into a global leader in the floriculture industry.
My father instilled in me a deep respect for knowledge, along with the value of practical know-how. I started spending time in his workshop at a very young age, learning the ropes of mechanics and metalworking. Later, I refined these skills with theory, qualifying as an Industrial Technician and a Mechanical Engineer.
To this day, I still quote his teachings, especially one golden rule: never let a massive problem overwhelm you. Just tackle it one small step at a time.
Securing a permanent teaching role was quite a challenge. I earned my certification in three different subjects in a single year, all while teaching and managing my engineering practice. Next came growing my business, which led me into the environmental sector, including a role in public administration. But the greatest challenge of all is family: creating relationships with quality people to look at the past and the future with serenity.
The sea, with its calm yet commanding power, always recharges me. Especially when it’s not crowded. I’m thinking of the Caribbean Sea, with its vibrant colors of sky and water. Also, the massive Atlantic tides, where I’ve lost track of time calculating the staggering energy of wave power.
On a deserted island, I’d bring a fishing rod. Thanks to my childhood experience, it would guarantee me a meal. Next, a crate of history and philosophy books to put my time to good use. Finally, a knife, because with it, you can build almost anything.
The best advice I ever got came from my father: whether you’re right or wrong, never let yourself get played.
Emiliano
Maso
Peace of mind on the horizon
To me, Connection is pure energy. The moment you step inside, you instantly feel the dynamic, driven atmosphere. As Connection’s IT consultant, I’ve seen firsthand how Roberto engages people and makes everyone feel like a core part of the project.
Back in 1999, I was a young IT consultant just launching my own business. Google had only just been born, and no one could have predicted how it would change the world. I vividly remember the anxiety surrounding the Millennium Bug… the famous Y2K! There was widespread fear that the year 2000 would trigger critical IT system failures.
My passion for IT, curiosity, and the drive to build something of my own kept me constantly pushing forward. Launching my business from scratch was a massive challenge. I had to master every side of the operation, from accounting and marketing to training and team management.
I learned to analyze mistakes and turn them into growth opportunities. More importantly, I mastered time management and prioritization to strike a real balance between work and family.
My happy place? The sea. It brings me positive energy and joy – and sometimes, a touch of bittersweet nostalgia. There’s something magical about the silence at dawn or sunset, when the only sound is the waves filling the air. It’s where my mind can wander, allowing me to find a deep connection with myself. The perfect place to unplug and completely recharge.
The beach I hold closest to my heart is Jesolo. I used to go there as a kid with my parents. It’s where I celebrated passing my high school exams, and where I’ve spent countless holidays with both friends and family.
If I had to choose three things to bring to a deserted island, I’d start with a Swiss Army knife for survival and everyday tasks. Next, a journal and pen to record thoughts and experiences. Finally, a camera to take pictures for others to see one day.
The best advice I ever received? Always give it your all and do the right thing. Never give up: if you do the job right, the results will follow.
Andrea
Pavanetto
Go for it, never stop
Our partnership with Connection goes back over a decade. I’ve guided the company through several certification processes, but our connection goes way beyond a standard business contract. We’ve built a great relationship rooted in mutual trust, synergy and real teamwork.
When Connection was founded, I was finishing my degree at the University of Florence. I’d been working since a young age, so I graduated a bit later than usual—simply because I was juggling life as a student, a worker, and a professional athlete. I played in the Benetton Treviso youth system, winning two national youth titles and several senior championships across different divisions throughout my sports career.
Back in 1999, right as Connection was founded, I faced a major crossroads. The options? Stay in Florence – where I had lived for eight years and already had job offers lined up – or return to Veneto to run a real estate construction company as Sole Director. Fortunately, I chose the latter.
I’ve taken on plenty of rewarding challenges throughout my journey—whether it was my first summer working in a restaurant kitchen, or balancing my dedication to competitive sports with top grades at school. I also have fond memories of winning the Cadetti national title with Benetton. Driven by the power of an incredibly tight-knit team, we beat a far stronger opponent.
After leaving basketball, my weight shot up from 90 kg to 139 kg, taking a severe toll on my back and knees. Thanks to the advice and inspiration of a remarkable person, I started taking action – first walking regularly, then jogging. Today, I’ve run the New York City Marathon three times. I also completed the World Marathon Majors, the six most prestigious marathons on earth: New York, Berlin, Chicago, Tokyo, Boston, and London.
My first New York marathon was tough. I had to stop several times. Then, a guy on crutches with only one leg ran past me. He was bleeding from his armpits. He looked at me and yelled: ‘Go for it! Never stop!’
‘Go for it’ happened to be the exact same rallying cry we used back at Benetton. That was the spark I needed. I pushed through to the finish line, only to wake up an hour later in the medical tent.
The best advice I ever received is undoubtedly from my coach and mentor in Florence. During that period, I had returned home due to family problems, and he told me: Andrea, you must return to Florence and graduate, and then you must always continue to study, you must never stop learning something new or improving what you have and what you do.
Daniele
Pezzali
The eyes of trust
I first met Roberto back in 2014. At the time, I was the Purchasing Director for a major manufacturer of air conditioning units and heat pumps. I was looking for an electrical panel supplier - a forward-thinking entrepreneur with a truly innovative approach to the business.
My first visit to Connection left a massive impression. The electrical panels were engineered with the entire workflow in mind: every upstream design phase was optimized for product industrialization, allowing downstream operators to seamlessly assemble connections using step-by-step tablet guides.
That breakthrough approach proved highly competitive, delivering far superior quality compared to competitors relying on traditional methods. My own career began in 1987, spanning 32 years in procurement across seven different multinational corporations.
Whether past or present, all these challenges share a single common denominator: the management of change. It’s a topic I explore deeply in my books, Storia di un buyer (2019) and Gli acquisti: le sfide di ieri, oggi e domani (2023).
1999 was a milestone year for me as well. My first son, Davide, was born – and I needed every ounce of energy I had to keep up with such a lively kid! That same year, my career took a major leap forward when I was promoted to Procurement Manager across two corporate divisions. More recently, over the past five years, I’ve launched my own business as a corporate consultant and trainer, specializing in procurement and supply chain.
It was a change years in the making – one I finally found the courage to embrace in 2019. Roberto and other business owners put their trust in me, choosing me to lead their professional procurement training. I will always be deeply grateful to them. My mother used to say that growing up, I was a good kid but quite a handful! She was the one who always pushed me to believe in my dreams and to have absolute faith in myself.
If I had to pick three things to bring to a desert island, they’d be my diving mask, a hammock, and that endless stack of books in my closet – the ones I can never seem to find the time to read.
I love the Sardinian sea, but what truly fuels me with positive energy are the eyes of the people who trust me – when they let me look deep into their gaze and connect on a deep level.
Truly connecting with someone is a beautiful experience.
Alessandro
Pisano
Unconventional voices
I represent LiberaMente, a consultancy firm specializing in the organization of business processes integrated into information systems, and I feel like an active part of Connection's technological and IT growth.
I first got to know the company back in 2017, where I found a dynamic business owner full of energy and constantly driven to tackle new projects and challenges. To this day, it remains a true pleasure to support Connection in developing and coordinating the projects Roberto continues to bring to the table year after year.
When Connection was founded, I was a freelancer who had recently gone solo, following fifteen years of employment at an IT group based in Udine, where I had worked my way up through various roles.
As a freelancer, I had just taken on a major project designing an ERP system. It was during this time that I reconnected with an old colleague of mine – who, exactly 25 years ago, co-founded the very firm I represent today.
Our goal was to do things radically differently from the software companies of that era. We refused to force businesses to alter their processes just to fit a rigid software design. Instead, we wanted to analyze their actual challenges and tailor the technology to their specific workflows and needs. We weren’t selling a product to be bought; we were building a project to be realized.
It’s hard to single out just one person who inspired my growth; so many people have enriched my journey. Every new client has been a vital piece of this mosaic. But if I had to choose, perhaps my partner Maurizio has been my greatest driving force and a constant role model. Interestingly, the biggest challenges along my path have been in my personal life: getting married, raising two children, watching them graduate, and seeing one walk down the aisle. And, of course, finally paying off our home mortgage.
Singing is a lifelong passion of mine, and I’ve been a choir director since the age of 15. Among my most thrilling experiences, I’ll always remember organizing international tours across Brazil, Canada, and the United States, as well as conducting the choir at the Italian Chamber of Deputies and the Senate.
The stage and music are a huge source of positive energy for me – they help me both unwind and recharge. But the most rewarding part is when singing allows me to convey an emotion, whatever it may be, that truly lingers in the hearts of those listening.
The best advice I’ve ever received? Less worrying, more doing.
Ivano
Rizzon
Great ideas, hidden paths
A mutual friend introduced me to Roberto about ten years ago. We connected right away, quickly developing a deep professional respect for one another. We share a strong passion for Lean Production and its application.
We originally planned to collaborate on a project in the cabling industry. Then, we both got too busy and the project fell through, but our friendship and mutual respect remained untouched – and have only grown stronger over time. Today, we stay in close touch, whether it’s to talk business or just to bounce ideas off each other.
In 1999, I was at Clivet, an HVAC manufacturing company based in Feltre. I was in charge of two production plants, overseeing a team of 150 factory workers and 10 office staff.
If I look back at who inspired my growth during that time, Bruno Bellò, the owner of Clivet, immediately comes to mind. From him, I learned to never give up, and to always focus on the cause, not the blame – it’s one of the most valuable lessons I’ve ever learned. Later, in 2009, I chose to specialize in lean methodologies, earning a Master’s in Lean Management from the CUOA Business School in Altavilla Vicentina.
My life has always been, and still is, a continuous challenge. After twenty-three years at Clivet, marked by constant professional growth and increasing responsibilities in operations, I felt the need to challenge myself once again. Armed with the wealth of experience I had built up, I started a new chapter to step out of my comfort zone. Since then, I’ve taken on various roles within operations that have further enriched my background.
Today, I am with Steelco – known as SteelcoBelimed since June 2023 – where I focus on optimizing operational workflows, production process industrialization, and training teams in lean organization.
Rather than in a specific place, I find my energy out on the trails, whether I’m walking my dog or riding my e-bike through the woods near home and up in the mountains. It’s my ultimate way to recharge and maintain a positive mindset. Right now, due to a temporary physical setback, I’ve had to take a break. I miss it deeply, but I know for certain I’ll be back out there hitting those trails very soon.
If I had to pick three things to take with me to a desert island, they’d be hiking boots to keep moving, a rope to secure things, and a hatchet to chop through any obstacle.
Cristian
Salamon
Building a lasting bond
My relationship with Connection goes back nearly twenty years. Over this time, I’ve witnessed incredible changes and have been fortunate enough to see the company’s transformation unfold from the inside. A truly privileged vantage point.
From a small business building electrical panels in a garage to expanding into two separate facilities to meet production demands. I witnessed the arrival of the very first wire-cutting machine, followed by the first cable printer. Then the machines became two, and then three. I watched the company’s digital evolution unfold with the introduction of the first tablets on the shop floor, and I’ve lived through two major company relocations firsthand.
When Connection was founded back in 1999, I was just a middle school student in my final year. It was a massive year of final exams and, more importantly, the time to choose my high school path. Early aptitude tests suggested that a technical track would be the perfect fit for me. So, I enrolled at the ITIS technical institute in Conegliano, where I eventually graduated as an electrical technician.
In the end, it truly was the right choice. Right after my exams, Connection reached out, the interview went great, and I was in. Throughout these years, my family, and especially my partner, have been a constant source of inspiration, supporting my growth every step of the way. Of course, having Roberto’s trust for the past nineteen years has meant the world to me.
Looking back, my time at the company has been packed with challenges. Right after I was hired, I wanted to prove I was a young guy who could learn fast, and I couldn’t wait to put everything I was learning into practice. I wanted to show I could tackle even the toughest jobs, understand the tech evolution under way, and proudly represent the company. Eventually, I wanted to manage a line, learning how to execute the work and lead a team. It has been non-stop from day one.
I’m incredibly lucky because the place that gives me the most positive energy is right where I live. I love being with my partner, and together, we are building our future.
If I had to pick three things to take with me to a desert island, they’d be objects that represent me and remind me of who I am: a ball, a helmet and a screwdriver.
I’ve received a lot of advice over the years, and fortunately, I took much of it to heart: always be yourself, and always look ahead. At Connection, the best piece of advice I ever got was to see the glass half full—because for every problem, there’s always a solution.
Fausto
Salvador
Live as you train
I’ve known Roberto for over ten years. Back then, he had a small business but a massive drive to grow. Ever since we met, we’ve built a professional relationship grounded in trust and deep mutual respect. Over time, our working relationship evolved into a close friendship, and today I am deeply fond of Roberto, his company, and his family.
Twenty-five years ago, I was a young professional making my way at a firm in Trieste. It was a milestone year: I passed my state licensing exam, was made partner, and had recently tied the knot. I was bursting with enthusiasm for my job and hungry for professional growth.
I’ve always had positive role models throughout my career. Early on, Giovanni Bossi, my mentor and the founder of my firm, was a pivotal figure. Generally speaking, I love surrounding myself with positive people, both in life and at work. Fortunately, I’m blessed with a lot of creative energy, meaning my drive to evolve never runs out.
The biggest challenges throughout my career have been managing, training, and motivating teams, as well as my own personal growth – both in expanding my know-how and sharpening my interpersonal skills.
I’m a huge track and field enthusiast. I’ve been training and competing in sprints from the 100 to the 400 meters – for about twenty years. I have to say, the track is a place that truly puts me at peace with myself. I love being out there, whether it’s buzzing with other athletes or completely empty. It always fills me with incredible energy.
Well, since taking people along isn’t an option, if I had to choose three things to take with me to a desert island, I’d pack a pair of running shoes, a good stack of books and a hunting knife.
The best advice I’ve ever received? To be honest, I don’t get a lot of advice. Let’s just say I usually advise and motivate myself. One of the latest notes I’ve jotted down for myself is: always give your absolute best. You should never stop striving for excellence in everything you do.
Daniele
Stolfo
Broadcasting music
My relationship with Connection is deeply intense and secure, built on mutual respect and trust. From the very beginning, we shared an instant connection that has stayed with us throughout these 25 years. Roberto and I have been pioneers in many areas, supported each other through many others, and whenever necessary, we’ve stepped in together on-site with clients.
I still remember a grueling same-day round trip to Vienna over twenty years ago, all to resolve a client issue that, in the end… didn’t even exist. Roberto didn’t even bat an eye; there wasn’t a single complaint or demand, despite the sacrifice. Ours is a relationship built on a wonderful friendship born and raised in the workplace – one that has truly shaped and defined my own entrepreneurial journey.
Twenty-five years ago, I was the General Manager of a company – now a competitor of mine – where I first met Roberto. Back then, I was an up-and-coming manager hungry for success, and he was a young guy eager to make his mark. Due to a target price imposed by the end client, we couldn’t collaborate right away. Shortly after, when I founded my own company, I had zero doubts about who to choose as my partner for our future product line. Even though a quarter of a century has passed and we now operate on a completely different scale, Roberto and I haven’t changed at our core… Personally, I just feel a bit older!
My growth has been driven by a desire to innovate, to develop something entirely new, and to follow market trends with a creative edge. The biggest challenge was starting my own company from scratch and scaling it to the top tiers of the European market. A second challenge, closely linked to the first, was producing components that were more eco-friendly and reliable than anything else out there. In the end, I believe that’s a challenge we’ve ultimately won.
I draw my energy from music – a passion I promoted and broadcasted back in my youth, when I dedicated seven full years to radio and the world of communications. It’s a musical heritage I treasure deeply: I still keep a collection of 700 vintage vinyl records, and whenever I can, I love to enjoy them at home in my Hi-Fi corner with my console.
So, the rule is just three things on a desert island? Alright, give me a radio, a history book, and my friends. Wait, you can’t bring people? But I’m just not built to be alone!
The best piece of professional advice I ever received is that you should always sell a product first, and build it later. Never the other way around.