2024-11-22 04:44:54
Illinois Manufacturing Excellence Center (IMEC) and World Business Chicago (WBC) have announced a new partnership aimed at aligning strategies and resources to strengthen Chicago’s manufacturing sector and drive inclusive economic growth. As global trends reshape the manufacturing landscape— from evolving technology and shifting supply chains to workforce dynamics— this partnership is focused on preparing Chicago for the future of manufacturing while leveraging the city’s deep industrial roots.
The partnership has already focused on key initiatives designed to elevate Chicago’s position as a global manufacturing hub. This included the third annual Manufacturing Month Series in October, where IMEC served as a planning partner, participated in tours of local manufacturers and provided the keynote address at the DPD-WBC Manufacturing Award Ceremony. The series spotlighted more than a dozen manufacturers and brought together industry stakeholders. Additionally, IMEC and WBC are co-hosting three manufacturing roundtables through the end of 2024, creating a platform for industry leaders to engage in meaningful dialogue on topics like leadership, workforce development and the rapidly evolving technology landscape that is reshaping the sector.
“Our nation is experiencing a pivotal manufacturing moment driven by shifting geopolitics, supply chain realignments and the transition toward nextgeneration technologies,” said David Boulay, President, IMEC. “This partnership with WBC allows us to address these changes head-on by supporting smalland mid-sized manufacturers—the backbone of Chicago’s manufacturing ecosystem— while preparing them for what is next.”
Chicago has a rich manufacturing tradition, and this partnership aims to harness that legacy while looking forward. The collaboration also addresses key challenges such as the demographic shift, as retiring boomers pass ownership to a more diverse next generation, and the need for increased productivity through investments in skills and automation.
“We are thrilled to collaborate with IMEC to build on our shared vision of supporting local manufacturers,” said Kyle Schulz, Chief Growth Officer, WBC. “As the manufacturing sector evolves, it is critical that we focus on workforce development, embracing new technologies and ensuring that the next generation of manufacturing is driven by innovation and inclusivity.”
As part of the partnership, IMEC and WBC’s Research Center will jointly develop bi-monthly infographics analyzing subsectors of the Chicagoland manufacturing economy, and they will release a co-branded digital newsletter to engage a network of over 250 manufacturers, agencies and partners with insights and updates.
For more information contact:
IMEC
1501 W Bradley Ave.
Peoria, IL 61625
888-806-4632
info@imec.org
www.imec.org
World Business Chicago
180 N Lasalle
Ste. 2505
Chicago, IL 60601
www.worldbusinesschicago.com
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