Whitepapers, Reports & Executive Briefs
Defense Industry Day Presentations
Access the presentation materials from Defense Industry Day, where manufacturers, defense contractors, and industry experts came together to discuss opportunities within the defense industrial base. These presentations provide insights into defense market opportunities, supply chain requirements, cybersecurity, certifications, government contracting, and resources available to help manufacturers succeed in the defense sector.
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 different workstyles can be a game changer for collaboration, productivity, and team success. Join us in this webinar to explore the four basic workstyles and […]
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: 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 Register for Session 3: MODERNIZING MATERIAL MOVEMENT: Automation Strategies for Casting and Forging In this webinar we will explore how modern material handling automation, ranging […]
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 […]