Manufacturing

The GCAMP 2026 Outstanding Manufacturing Student Awards celebrate more than technical skill—they recognize perseverance, leadership, and a deep commitment to building the future of manufacturing. 

This year’s program showcased an extraordinary group of students whose achievements demonstrate the strength and promise of our regional talent pipeline. From high school labs to college classrooms and real-world shop floors, each applicant represents the innovation, precision, and work ethic that define modern manufacturing.

Illinois manufacturers have a lot to be proud of—and a lot to look forward to. The next generation is showing growing interest in manufacturing, engineering, technology, and the trades (METT). But they need your help to turn that interest into real career paths.

Launching a High School Internship Program

One of the most common misconceptions in manufacturing today is that companies can only hire legal adults, or individuals over the age of 18.  Many manufacturers are hesitant to hire 16- and 17-year-olds.  Not only is this young adult population hirable, but they are also some of the most eager workers, in need of guidance to begin their manufacturing careers.

The International Manufacturing Technology Show (IMTS), the largest and longest-running manufacturing technology trade show in the United States, was held September 9–14, at McCormick Place in Chicago. This biennial event is a premier opportunity for industry leaders to explore cutting-edge innovations, engage in professional networking, and participate in a variety of educational workshops.

GCAMP, the Greater Chicago Advanced Manufacturing Partnership, has been excited to read all of the news regarding the manufacturing industry in Illinois, and we are eager to share some of the highlights with you.

Manufacturing in Illinois is a ‘high-growth industry’ specifically in:[1]

For the second year in a row, GCAMP hosted summer manufacturing tours for young people in the Chicagoland area. Our 60+ tour participants included students, parents, teachers, and counselors, 

Hampshire High School teacher, Jonathan Weger, knew the right steps to take to make a huge impact with his students this year – give students knowledge, combine it with hands-on experiences, apply it to real-world scenarios, and watch the learning grow. 

Why should you conduct tours?