Manufacturing matchmaking has been on the forefront of the Illinois Manufacturing Excellence Center’s event calendar continuing now into its second year.  IMEC has been reaching out to a diverse group of partners throughout the state in an effort for manufacturing representatives to meet with potential new customers and suppliers.  IMEC is positioned to help manufacturers increase sales opportunities and gain a footing in regional and global supply chains.

The matchmaking and networking events  have a structured opportunity to network with potential customers and suppliers by sharing information, samples and more; similar to “speed-dating” but for suppliers and end users.

Safe Sheds, Inc. has manufactured above ground concrete storm shelters that are delivered across the United States since 2002. Able to withstand winds in excess of 250 mph, these shelters have saved lives and provided steady employment for Illinois residents.

Gretchen Clifton - Located in central Illinois, Gretchen has over 35 years of experience in manufacturing. She challenges her clients to enhance their knowledge and skills to continually improve their operations themselves. Gretchen provides management skills in auditing, quality, continual improvement, problem solving, coaching/training and manufacturing trouble shooting and she is experienced in implementing, auditing and certifying quality systems as well as mentoring project teams while finding problem resolutions.

On July 23rd, IMEC President David Boulay facilitated a panel discussion on innovative solutions for a demand-driven workforce that highlighted the future of workforce and the importance of building an employer-led system.

As part of the 1000 Jobs Campaign for Chicagoland manufacturers, the interactive event focused on digital manufacturing and the development of a highly-skilled workforce that will prepare employees for factories of the future. 

For more than forty years, Muir Omni Graphics has been providing some of the world's leading manufacturers, utility companies and service organizations with turn-key decal production and management solutions.

As a contract manufacturer of metal products we offer quality stamping, precision components, machining, turning, forming, bending, drawing, shearing, welding, buffing and value added assembly. We have 47 presses from 6-tons to 600-tons, 2 CNC Turret Presses, 4 CNC Machining Centers with large bed sizes, 3 CNC Turning Centers- 1 Fryer SL-10, 4 Press Brakes capable of up to 1/2" x 12' and 3 shears capable of up to 3/8" x 12'. Our welding capabilities include light duty tig and resistance welding. Painting, plating, heat treating and engineering assistance is available.

For over eight years in Rockford, IL the Testor Corporation has been manufacturing inspiring products for hobby, craft, home decor, auto-touch-up, and nail color. Since 1929, the oval Testor logo has been associated with the quality and integrity of these creative products for building, educating, and decorating.

IMEC is proud to announce Andy Cave as the newest Regional Manager to the team.  Andy will have primary responsibility serving the north and northwestern Chicagoland region.