October is National Manufacturers Month, a time to celebrate the makers and innovators powering Illinois’ fourth-largest manufacturing economy — including McDonough County’s robust industrial sector.
“Manufacturers build quality products, create jobs, and fuel economic growth,” said Kim Pierce, CEO/President of the Macomb Area Economic Development Corporation (MAEDCO). “They are an integeral part of McDonough County’s economic strength and vitality.”
Annually MAEDCO in conjunction with the Workforce Innovation Board (WIB), connects local manufacturers with students to showcase career opportunities. This year, the focus shifts to younger students. On October 23, over 230 area eighth graders will visit Spoon River College for a Manufacturing Event designed to introduce them to modern day manufacturing careers.
“With discussions underway about a regional Career Technology Education Center, it’s crucial to engage students early,” Pierce said.
Manufacturing in McDonough County has evolved into a high-tech, high-skill industry. Yet many local manufacturers face a growing shortage of qualified workers as retirements loom. Area schools — Spoon River College, Western Illinois University, and Carl Sandburg College — are ready to provide training tailored to these needs.
“Manufacturing isn’t the dark, dangerous job it once was,” she went on to say. “Students will be amazed by the technology and automation in our local plants.”
Collectively, our area manufacturers; Pella Corporation, NTN Bower, Yetter Manufacturing, Marshalltown, Schuld/ Bushnell, and Midwest Control Products, employ over 1,525 people. The continued success of these companies helps to support our local economy, retail growth, housing development, and workforce initiatives such as the proposed Career & Technology Center.
“We value our manufacturers and their investments in our communities and hope by introducing our youth early on it will inspire them to pursue a career in manufacturing.”
