IMEC to Host Illinois Defense Manufacturing Industry Day 2024
Illinois takes a significant step forward in reinforcing its position as a leader in advanced manufacturing with IMEC’s Illinois Defense Manufacturing Industry Day August 15. The event will provide industry leaders, government officials, and stakeholders with the opportunity to discuss the latest advancements and opportunities in defense manufacturing technologies.
New innovations within the military and defense sectors require that the industry keeps up to meet demand. Defense Manufacturing Industry Day will provide ample opportunities for networking and matchmaking, as well as thought-provoking panels and presentations. Attendees will gain insight into how businesses can leverage Illinois’ unique benefits to drive innovation in this dynamic space.
Illinois: The Ideal Hub for Defense Manufacturing
Illinois’ strong position in defense manufacturing and its supply chain is due to the state’s robust ecosystem of assets. In defense and security, Illinois:
- Employs 239K people (1st in the Midwest, 9th nationally)
- Has 18.8K business locations (1st in the Midwest, 8th nationally)
- Contributed $36.8B to the national economy (1st in the Midwest, 12th nationally)
Although the upcoming Defense Manufacturing Industry Day is a testament to Illinois’ commitment to manufacturing, it’s certainly not siloed. Illinois stands out as a prime location for many reasons, including:
- Strategic location: We’re not called the “heart of the U.S.” without reason. Centrally located with access to major logistical networks — both physical and digital — Illinois offers unmatched connectivity to both domestic and international markets. This geographical advantage is crucial for manufacturers, especially in the defense sector, requiring efficient transportation and distribution channels.
- Robust infrastructure: Illinois boasts a strong industrial base supported by world-class infrastructure. From our reliable power grid to our diverse transportation system, Illinois ensures that manufacturers can operate at peak efficiency.
- Skilled workforce: Home to some of the nation’s leading engineering schools and technical colleges, Illinois continually produces a talented pool of graduates credentialed and equipped to meet advanced manufacturing’s myriad needs. Ongoing partnerships between our exceptional academic institutions and manufacturing leaders see that skills are in alignment with industry demands. In fact, Site Selection magazine recognizes Illinois as #1 in the Midwest for workforce development.
- Government support and incentives: Illinois is proactive in fostering a supportive environment for this growing field. From incentives to grants for innovation, the State offers a range of programs that reduce operational costs and encourage investment in new technologies and processes.
What to Expect at Illinois Defense Manufacturing Industry Day
Attendees will enjoy workshops, panel discussions, and networking sessions designed to facilitate synergistic collaboration. Highlights include sessions on cybersecurity in manufacturing, supply chain optimization, and the future of advanced manufacturing technologies
Intersect Illinois’ interim CEO, Paulina San Millan, will take part in the panel discussion “Fostering Ecosystem Partnerships for Defense Industry Growth in Illinois,” from 10:45-11:30 a.m. This panel will explore the role of ecosystem partners in supporting the defense industry in Illinois, discussing economic opportunities, collaboration strategies, and the importance of building strong partnerships.
More than an event to gather leaders, innovators, and policymakers, Illinois Defense Manufacturing Industry Day is a clear signal of Illinois’ dedication to this sector. As we continue to support and invest in this critical industry, we invite business leaders like you to join us and explore how Illinois can serve as your company’s ideal location for defense manufacturing operations.
Learn more about Illinois Defense Manufacturing Industry Day here.
Unable to attend? Get in touch with our team today — and discover how we can support your growth in a state perfectly built for the future of manufacturing.
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