Aerospace leaders gather in Rockford to boost local manufacturing connections

ROCKFORD, Ill. (WTVO) — Leaders from across the aerospace industry gathered in Rockford Thursday for their annual Midwest Conference, aiming to strengthen connections with local manufacturers.

The conference provides a platform for industry leaders to engage directly with Rockford’s manufacturing sector, which is known for its high concentration of aerospace companies. Boeing’s Vice President of Supply Chain Excellence delivered the keynote address, highlighting the importance of collaboration in the industry.

“Rockford has one of the highest concentrations of aerospace manufacturers in the country. And so it’s really one of our greatest manufacturing strengths,” said Angela Kay Larson, CEO of the Greater Rockford Chamber of Commerce.

Over the past decade, local aerospace companies have invested over $700 million into expanding their operations in Rockford. This investment underscores the city’s strategic importance in the aerospace sector.

Rockford officials say the city’s transportation infrastructure and skilled workforce position it to capitalize on the current aerospace supercycle.

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