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The Illinois Manufacturers' Association has launched their 4th
annual Makers Madness contest. The bracket-style tournament
allows Illinoisans to vote on their favorite products made in
the state.
IMA president and CEO Mark Denzler said over 650,000 people work
in the manufacturing sector in Illinois, and there is a need for
more.
“There are certainly challenges remaining, including finding
qualified workers to fill these important jobs, and government
over regulation at times,” Denzler said.
A recent study found the total economic impact of manufacturing
in Illinois is estimated to be between $580 billion and $611
billion every year, which is the largest share of any industry
to the state’s Gross Domestic Product.
“With our central location, great infrastructure, world-class
city, global airport, excellent colleges and universities, and
best-in-class workforce,” Denzler said there is no reason
Illinois shouldn’t be the nation’s leader in the manufacturing
industry.
To ensure the state’s manufacturing sector remains strong, the
IMA said it is working to pass several measures this legislative
session including reforming the state’s biometric information
privacy law, creating additional workforce development
opportunities and providing tax incentives to spur additional
Illinois manufacturing.
Previous contest winners in Makers Madness include Rivian’s
all-electric R1T truck made in Normal, the first all-electric
truck in production featuring four motors, with one powering
each wheel; the Self-Regulating Traffic Signal Heater by Termico
Technologies in Elk Grove Village, which heats traffic signals
so they remain free of ice and snow allowing traffic to safely
navigate roadways; and the 797F Mining Truck manufactured by
Caterpillar, Inc. in Decatur, the world’s largest mechanical
truck.
Nominations are now being accepted at www.makersmadnessil.com.
Voting begins Feb. 21 with the winner being crowned on March 29.
Kevin Bessler reports on statewide issues in
Illinois for the Center Square. He has over 30 years of
experience in radio news reporting throughout the Midwest.
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