A world leader in advanced manufacturing
Illinois is a global manufacturing hub, with legacy and new companies manufacturing goods across all industries. A skilled workforce, modern infrastructure, and R&D engineering offer companies an ideal environment for growth and continued innovation.
Advanced Manufacturing
Skilled Workforce
The state is home to a robust and ready manufacturing workforce. Its renowned universities, such as the University of Chicago, University of Illinois, and Northwestern, coupled with a robust community college ecosystem, train talent for the future of advanced manufacturing — producing thousands of graduates with degrees in supply chain automation, computer-integrated manufacturing, CNC/CAM programming, and many more.
Unmatched Infrastructure
Illinois' world-class infrastructure provides unparalleled access to markets both domestic and international. With the nation's 3rd largest interstate highway network, the most-connected intermodal rail system, and the largest airports and inland waterways for barges, manufacturers can transport their goods and people across the globe with greater speed and superior reliability. Plus, a dense localized supply chain offers additional ease and efficiency.
Innovation Ecosystem
Alongside some of the world's largest manufacturing companies, Illinois offers a tremendous ecosystem committed to smart manufacturing. The Illinois Manufacturers' Association, Illinois Manufacturing Excellence Center, MxD, mHUB Innovation Center for Physical Product Development, national laboratories, and top-ranked engineering schools statewide are all working in partnership to lead innovation in the industry.
Notable Illinois Businesses
Notable Illinois Businesses
Top Illinois manufacturing employers include:
- John Deere
- Ford
- Caterpillar
- Rivian
- Medline
- AbbVie
Key Data
- 276K+ advanced manufacturing jobs (top 10 in U.S.)
- 8,297 advanced manufacturing businesses (top 10 in U.S.)
- 588K+ individuals in total manufacturing workforce (top 5 in U.S.)
- Creates $130.2B in annual economic output (13.4% of Illinois' GDP)
- 16% higher job concentration in total manufacturing than the national average
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