Last Thursday, Intersect Illinois participated in the Midwest Aerospace Conference in Rockford, Illinois, home to the sixth–largest aerospace cluster in the nation. MAC2024 offered attendees the opportunity to network with leaders, peers, and exhibitors; take part in breakout sessions; and gain industry insights from speakers on topics including workforce development, automation, electrification, and cutting-edge technologies in manufacturing.
Intersect Illinois Senior Business Development Manager Merrill Holden staffed a booth to share why Illinois is a great place for aerospace.
Intersect Illinois Senior Business Development Manager Merrill Holden was on hand at the Intersect Illinois booth to discuss available resources for companies interested in expanding or relocating to Illinois. Additionally, Director of Business Development Lenora Fisher spoke on a panel with Illinois Department of Commerce and Economic Opportunity (DCEO) Director Kristin Richards and Intersect Illinois Board Member and Illinois Manufacturing Excellence Center (IMEC) President David Boulay about how these Illinois organizations and others are working together to support aerospace business growth in the state. The panel was moderated by Intersect Illinois Board Member and Illinois Manufacturers’ Association President/CEO Mark Denzler.
Intersect Illinois Director of Business Development Lenora Fisher speaks on how Illinois supports aerospace business growth.
Another highlight of the event was Governor Pritzker’s keynote address, in which he emphasized Illinois’ industry advantages, such as its central location, connectivity, first-rate workforce, and competitive incentives.
“For generations, the Midwest, Illinois — Rockford especially — has played a leading role in this industry, reaching new heights in the skies and of course beyond,” Pritzker said.
More than 240 leaders from the aerospace and manufacturing industries attended the event, participating in discussion and networking, and gaining industry insights from insiders, government officials, and experts.
Why Is Illinois the Best Place for Your Aerospace Business?
It’s by no coincidence that Illinois hosted MAC2024, a showcase of the latest innovations and solutions in aerospace. If you want your aerospace business to thrive, there’s no better choice than Illinois:
- Tap into a thriving aerospace hub: Illinois boasts a robust aerospace and defense cluster, contributing over $1.7 billion to the economy annually. Benefit from a deep talent pool, specialized suppliers, and ample collaboration opportunities.
- Stay ahead of the curve: Illinois’ private aerospace industry invests heavily in R&D ($445 million annually), providing access to cutting-edge technology and a culture of innovation.
- Join a national powerhouse: The St. Louis metro region (including Illinois’ Metro-East) is the 7th largest metro-area aerospace & defense cluster in the U.S., offering a dense network of suppliers, a skilled workforce, and specialized support.
- Find strength in numbers: The Rockford region is another major aerospace hub in Illinois, providing even more options for your business with a concentration of industry leaders like Collins Aerospace, Woodward Inc. & GE Aviation.
Illinois is making great strides in the aerospace sector and offers a bright future ahead for your company. Be part of something bigger and bring your business to Illinois.
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Interested in learning more about what Illinois can do for you? Get in touch with our team today, and let’s talk growth for your business.
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