SDA’s Manufacturing Roadshow Gives Illinois Manufacturers a Closer Look at Defense Industry Opportunities
More than 35 manufacturers, government officials, industry experts, and economic development leaders recently boarded a bus for a first-of-its-kind Manufacturing Roadshow designed to connect Illinois manufacturers with new opportunities in the defense industrial base.
The event, which was organized by the Southland Development Authority (SDA), took participants inside four advanced manufacturing facilities. The intent was to create opportunities to network, learn about government contracting, and explore potential business partnerships.
The roadshow included stops at Aurora Defense Group, Pioneer Service Inc., Sciaky, and AmeriChem. The facilities showcased the technologies and capabilities supporting industries - like defense, aerospace, energy, and advanced manufacturing.
Participants toured production floors, met directly with company leaders, and learned how manufacturers are serving highly specialized markets.
At Aurora Defense Group, attendees saw military vehicle lighting systems and wire harnesses being produced. Pioneer Service demonstrated how it manufactures precision fasteners used in aerospace and medical applications. Sciaky showcased its metal 3D printing technology, while AmeriChem highlighted the chemical management and purification systems it provides to industrial customers.
According to Chris Cooks, Director of the SDA’s Illinois APEX Accelerator program, and Manny Davila, the SDA’s VP of Programs and Client Services, the goal was simply to show manufacturers what successful participation in the defense industrial base looks like and help them build new connections.
“It sounds simple because we put people on a bus and drove them around, but this was a really big deal,” said Davila. “We brought together manufacturers, government agencies, economic development organizations, and buyers in one place. That created opportunities for companies to share ideas, learn from one another, and explore new business opportunities.”
The roadshow also included educational sessions covering access to capital, tax incentives, procurement opportunities, and resources available to companies interested in government contracting.
Representatives from the U.S. Small Business Administration joined participants throughout the day, including Regional Administrator Brad Zaun and Illinois District Director Willette LeGrant. Representatives from the Illinois Department of Commerce and Economic Opportunity, Cook County, and several partner organizations also participated, sharing information about programs available to support Illinois manufacturers.
The event produced immediate results.
During the roadshow, two APEX Accelerator clients learned they had been awarded government contracts following work completed with their advisors. Manufacturers also exchanged contact information, discussed future projects, and requested quotes from one another throughout the day.
Tammy Roust, founder of FAIT Consulting, made note of the value of the connections she made.
“The Manufacturing Roadshow was very productive in bringing manufacturers, defense contractors, service providers, and government contractors together in one day so we could discuss issues at length,” Roust said. “We made several useful connections, and warm introductions were made through SDA and CMAA.”
Roust said touring the facilities helped her better understand the capabilities of the manufacturers her company supports through technology, cybersecurity, and compliance assessments.
“Knowing the manufacturing firms’ capabilities and expertise allows us to market for them effectively, and as we are auditing them, we know their strengths,” she said.
Julie Jaidinger of Jaidinger Manufacturing also found value in the experience.
“I found the roadshow informative and I was able to make new connections,” Jaidinger said.
Wilma Raso of AWW Automation said more on that note.
“The most valuable part was meeting a couple of the manufacturers,” Raso said. “I did make some new connections.”
“There is a major focus on expanding and strengthening manufacturing in the United States right now,” Davila said, highlighting the importance and relevance of the connections made at the event.
The Manufacturing Roadshow was supported by SomerCor and Bronswick Benjamin, along with regional, state, and federal partners focused on strengthening manufacturing and driving economic growth across Illinois.
According to Davila, plans for the next Manufacturing Roadshow are still being finalized.
About the Southland Development Authority
The Southland Development Authority, a not-for-profit economic development organization, is committed to driving equitable and sustainable economic growth in the South Suburbs of Chicago. Through innovative programs, strategic partnerships, and impactful direct investments, the SDA is building a vibrant, inclusive economy that drives wealth growth for individuals, businesses, and municipalities. Combined with the benefits of the South Suburban Land Bank and the Monarch Fund, the SDA serves as a model for regional development.
