Develop an Export Plan with ExporTech™ this Summer

Are you interested in exporting or expanding your current exporting efforts?  ExporTech™ is a federally supported national program that helps companies develop an export plan. On average, participating companies generate $770K in new export sales. Metro Chicago Exports is launching the next cohort for ExporTech™ Summer 2017 beginning this July. For more information about the program, please download the brochure or contact the ExporTech Program Manager.   The deadline is June 16, 2017.
Illinois Defense Spending Boosts Chicago Region's Economy
 
Did you know that Illinois ranks 19th nationally in total Defense spending, with $7B invested in over 57k jobs and defense contracts, much of which is concentrated in metro Chicago?   Given the critical role Defense spending plays in our economy, it's imperative that programs like the Illinois Defense Industry Adjustment Program help support the state's Defense and manufacturing industries by delivering resources that help companies and communities grow, diversify, and become more resilient. Learn more about DIA here and let us know if you have insights to offer about your own connection to the Illinois defense industry.
Promoting Careers in Manufacturing
 
CMMC is dedicated to engaging the next generation workforce in manufacturing. CMMC, along with Cook County Board President Toni Preckwinkle and Chicago Center for the Arts and Technology (CHICAT), hosted an On the Table conversation with manufacturers, educators, and workforce partners on May 16th that focused on how to better promote careers in manufacturing to those in need, especially young people. 

Changing Minds About Modern Manufacturing
Changing Minds About Modern Manufacturing
Participants discussed the current perception of manufacturing and how it is a rapidly changing environment, requiring new skills and technology. Also highlighted was the need to engage parents, educators, coaches, and school counselors so they can provide support to those interested in pursuing manufacturing-related programs. Click here to read more about the event, and see the Manufacturing Institute's   "Changing Minds about Modern Manufacturing video to the right.

We want to hear from you. How do you think we can better promote careers in manufacturing? Tell us how your company makes manufacturing "cool" and why young people should consider this career path!
Save the Date: The Future of Economic Opportunity
 
The official regional planning organization for northern Illinois, Chicago Metropolitan Agency for Planning (CMAP), is currently developing ON TO 2050, the next comprehensive plan for metro Chicago. From April to August 2017, CMAP and partners will host monthly ON TO 2050 Alternative Future Forums inviting the public to imagine challenges and opportunities our region will face by 2050. 

On July 19, CMAP will host "The Future of Economic Opportunity" in Homewood, IL. The forum will focus on how metro Chicago can adapt to ensure the American dream is obtainable here, and ensure our economy is thriving between now and 2050. Do you have ideas to share? Register for the forum today.

Trouble Finding the Right Workers? Toyota Sets Good Example
 
Tool and Die maker apprentice
Local manufacturers continue to struggle to fill open positions, like CNC machine operators and tool and die makers. Toyota's Georgetown, Kentucky plant explored beyond the traditional Human Resource route to figure out how to fill 52 tool and die maker positions by 2021. Toyota projects it can fill about 15 positions via HR, but they hope the rest will be filled through a new apprenticeship program, partnering with their local trade school, investing in a training center, and developing a high school pipeline. 

If you struggle to fill positions, you might want to read their story here for new ideas.
The Chicago Metro Metal Consortium (CMMC)  works to strengthen the region's 4000 metal and machinery manufacturing firms .  CMMC offers manufacturers the tools, services and resources to improve and grow their businesses through collaboration and networking, market intelligence, and promotion of the region as the nation's leading center for manufacturing. 
  
 
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