Whitepapers, Reports & Executive Briefs

HARD TECHNOLOGIES FOR HARD ROI

Discover how small and mid-sized manufacturers can strategically deploy robotics and advanced process controls to stabilize production, address workforce challenges, and achieve measurable returns.

Advanced Manufacturing TechnologyAIAutomationQuality Management Technology

Whitepapers, Reports & Executive Briefs

Advance McHenry County

See how targeted investments helped 74 McHenry County manufacturers strengthen their businesses and generate an estimated $50.6 million in economic impact.

Grants and Initiatives

Whitepapers, Reports & Executive Briefs

Cook County Manufacturing Reinvented

See how strategic investment helped Cook County manufacturers strengthen their operations, workforce, and growth strategies, generating $737.8 million in aggregate economic impact.

Grants and Initiatives

Webinar Recordings

BlueForge Workforce Summit

ADDITIONAL RESOURCES:  Session Handouts: Partners in Progress 2026 Shaping the Future of Workforce Development The Evolving Role of Supervisors and Middle Managers Join IMEC for a focused virtual workforce summit designed to help manufacturers attract, develop, and retain the talent they need to grow and compete. This webinar will feature practical insights from workforce experts […]

Coaching & DevelopmentSupply Chain LeadershipWorkforce

Webinar Recordings

BRIDGE THE GAP: Working Across Generations in Manufacturing

ADDITIONAL RESOURCES:  Session Handout: Bridging the Gap Working Across Generations Slide Deck In today’s manufacturing workplaces, it’s common to see four or even five generations working together — from seasoned Baby Boomers to fresh Gen Z employees. Each generation brings unique experiences, work styles, and values to the table, but these differences can also create […]

Coaching & DevelopmentCompany CultureHuman Resources LeadershipWorkforce

Whitepapers, Reports & Executive Briefs

STRATEGIC AUTOMATION INVESTMENT

Discover how strategic, targeted automation investments can help manufacturers address workforce challenges, improve productivity, support reshoring, and strengthen long-term competitiveness.

Advanced Manufacturing TechnologyAIAutomationStrategic Planning Technology

Whitepapers, Reports & Executive Briefs

2025 Made in Illinois Impact Report

See how strategic investment is helping Illinois manufacturers modernize, strengthen their workforce, increase productivity, and build a more competitive future.

Grants and Initiatives

Webinar Recordings

CMMC Paused, Not Dead: Navigating the DoW’s Phase II Suspension

ADDITIONAL RESOURCES:  Session Handout: CMMC Paused, Not Dead: Navigating the DoW’s Phase II Suspension On July 13, the Department of War hit pause on CMMC Phase II — the third-party assessment requirement that was supposed to kick-off this November. Cue a wave of “CMMC is dead” headlines. It’s not, and treating it that way could […]

Cybersecurity Technology

Whitepapers, Reports & Executive Briefs

THE NEXT FRONTIER

Discover how AI, digital twins, IIoT, and sustainable technologies are helping small and medium-sized manufacturers build connected factories that improve productivity, reduce costs, and strengthen long-term competitiveness.

Advanced Manufacturing TechnologyAIAutomationStrategic Planning Technology