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: 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 productivity, quality, and profitability, but with the right tools, it doesn’t have to. By combining Lean principles with the power of the Industrial Internet of […]
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 June 25, 2026, the Illinois Manufacturing Excellence Center (IMEC) and the Illinois Manufacturers’ Association (IMA) will bring those stories together at the 2026 Manufacturing Hall […]
Webinar Recordings
REINVENTING METAL PROCESSES: AI and Advanced Manufacturing in Casting and Forging
ADDITIONAL RESOURCES: 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 Upcoming Session 3 on June 18: MODERNIZING MATERIAL MOVEMENT: Automation Strategies for Casting and Forging What if casting and forging operations could predict defects before […]
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: 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 leaders with tools to define direction, set priorities, and execute effectively. Participants will learn how to analyze their business environment, identify strengths and gaps, and […]
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 lasting company value. The difference isn’t more activity; it’s knowing which value drivers to strengthen next. In this webinar, Next Play Marketing will walk through […]
Webinar Recordings
OPTIMIZE OR REPLACE: An ERP Decision Guide for Manufacturers
ADDITIONAL RESOURCES: 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 processes the real issue? This executive-level presentation helps manufacturing leaders determine whether they should optimize their existing ERP system or pursue a full replacement. Designed […]