Whitepapers, Reports & Executive Briefs
Developing the Next Level of Leadership in Manufacturing
Manufacturers facing persistent workforce shortages and evolving skill demands can leverage apprenticeships as a proven, high-ROI strategy to build sustainable talent pipelines and future-proof their operations.
Webinar Recordings
BOOST TEAM PERFORMANCE: Unlocking the Power of Workstyles
ADDITIONAL RESOURCES: Session Handout: BOOST TEAM PERFORMANCE: Unlocking the Power of Workstyles Whitepaper: Building Tomorrow’s Workforce Workstyles shape how individuals think, communicate, and get things done. Understanding and adapting to […]
Whitepapers, Reports & Executive Briefs
Grant Guide for Small Businesses
Learn how to identify grant opportunities, submit competitive applications, and secure funding to support your business growth.
Webinar Recordings
SIMPLE. SAFE. ACCESSIBLE: Why Automation Is Attainable for Casting & Forging Manufacturers
ADDITIONAL RESOURCES:Â Session Handout: SIMPLE. SAFE. ACCESSIBLE: Why Automation Is Attainable for Casting & Forging Manufacturers Session 1 Recording: REINVENTING METAL PROCESSES: AI and Advanced Manufacturing in Casting and Forging […]
Blogs
Too Hot to Handle? Navigating OSHA’s New Heat Safety Rules
OSHA’s expanded 2026 Heat NEP is increasing inspections, making heat illness prevention and worker protection more critical than ever.
Webinar Recordings
SEE WASTE CLEARLY: Using IIoT to Reveal and Remove the 8 Wastes
ADDITIONAL RESOURCES:Â Session Handout: SEE WASTE CLEARLY: Using IIoT to Reveal and Remove the 8 Wastes Watch: SUSTAIN CONTINUOUS IMPROVEMENT: Strategies for Long-Term CI Success Waste takes a toll on […]
News
IMEC to Host Defense Industry Day to Strengthen U.S. Industrial Base and Expand Opportunities for Illinois Manufacturers
Manufacturers, defense leaders, and economic development partners will gather June 16–17 for Defense Industry Day hosted by IMEC to strengthen the U.S. industrial base and expand defense supply chain opportunities.
News
Meet the Finalists: 2026 Manufacturing Excellence Awards
Manufacturers across Illinois are navigating workforce challenges, rising costs, and constant change. Across the state, companies, educators, and industry partners are finding new ways to adapt, grow, and lead. On […]
Webinar Recordings
REINVENTING METAL PROCESSES: AI and Advanced Manufacturing in Casting and Forging
ADDITIONAL RESOURCES:Â Session Handout: REINVENTING METAL PROCESSES: AI and Advanced Manufacturing in Casting and Forging Session 2 Recording: SIMPLE. SAFE. ACCESSIBLE: Why Automation Is Attainable for Casting & Forging Manufacturers […]
Blogs
Strategic Plan Blueprint: Turning Vision into Measurable Results
Manufacturers that move beyond daily firefighting and embrace strategic planning can create stronger alignment, smarter investments, and a clearer path toward long-term growth.
Blogs
ERP Failure Is Usually Not a Software Problem
Many ERP failures are not caused by bad software, but by inconsistent processes, poor data discipline, and operational workarounds that no system alone can fix.
Webinar Recordings
STRATEGIC PLAN BLUEPRINT: Turning Vision into Measurable Results
ADDITIONAL RESOURCES:Â Session Handout: STRATEGIC PLAN BLUEPRINT: Turning Vision into Measurable Results Read: Ace Sign Co. Success Story The fundamentals of strategic planning will be presented. This webinar will equip […]
Webinar Recordings
MAXIMIZING COMPANY VALUE: 8 Drivers Every Manufacturer Should Assess
ADDITIONAL RESOURCES: Session Handout: MAXIMIZING COMPANY VALUE: 8 Drivers Every Manufacturer Should Assess Assessment: Free Value Growth Diagnostic Most Illinois manufacturers are working hard on growth—but not all growth creates […]
Webinar Recordings
OPTIMIZE OR REPLACE: An ERP Decision Guide for Manufacturers
ADDITIONAL RESOURCES:Â Session Handout: OPTIMIZE OR REPLACE: An ERP Decision Guide for Manufacturers Read: Frantz Manufacturing Company’s Success Story Is your ERP system holding your organization back, or are internal […]
Whitepapers, Reports & Executive Briefs
The State of Manufacturing Apprenticeships: National Trends, ROI, and How This Impacts Illinois Manufacturers
Manufacturers facing persistent workforce shortages and evolving skill demands can leverage apprenticeships as a proven, high-ROI strategy to build sustainable talent pipelines and future-proof their operations.
Blogs
Building Apprenticeship Programs: A Practical Path to Stronger Talent Pipelines
A practical guide for manufacturers to build apprenticeship programs that strengthen talent pipelines, improve retention, and deliver measurable ROI.
Discover Reliable Suppliers and Strengthen Your Supply Chain
Our cutting-edge supply chain center is designed to connect Illinois manufacturers with suppliers across the United States. Tailored specifically to support the Buy America Initiative, this initiative fosters local sourcing and empowers manufacturers to access a diverse network of reliable suppliers.
Career Pathways in Manufacturing
We created Career Pathways in Manufacturing to strengthen workforce and economic competitiveness, securing a resilient economy for the future.