2016 Rockford Chamber Yearbook

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A Letter to Chamber Members . . . . . . . . . . . . 2-3

Rockford Chamber Mission-Vision . . . . . . . . . . . .4

Business Growth 308 West State Street, Suite 190 Rockford, Illinois 61101 815.987.8100 815.987.8122 fax info@rockfordchamber.com rockfordchamber.com Layout/Design/Production Doug Hessong

Chamber Councils . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . .5

Ambassadors Clubs . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 6

Advantage Clubs . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . .6

Caught On Digital! . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 7-12

Good Morning Rockford! & Business After Hours . . . 13

Partnerships . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 14

Advertising Sales Lynette Jacques Database Manager Joan Sundvall Writers/Editors Barbara Connors Caitlin Pusateri Photography Brian Thomas Photography and the Rockford Chamber Staff

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Table of Contents

Business Luncheon Series . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 15

Business Advocacy

Government Affairs . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 16

ROCPAC . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 16

Leadership

Rockford Leadership Alliance . . . . . . . . . . . 17-18

Lead 360 . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 19

Leadership Rockford . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 20

40 Leaders Under Forty . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 21

IGNITE . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 22

Professional Development

2016 Events & Awards . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 23-28

Looking to 2017

The 2017 Board of Directors . . . . . . . . . . . . 30-31

Rockford Chamber Staff . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 32

Advertiser's Index . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 40

ABOUT THIS BOOK - The 2016 Rockford Chamber of Commerce Yearbook is published by the Rockford Chamber of Commerce. Every effort has been made to ensure its accuracy.

The Rockford Chamber of Commerce does not assume any responsibility for errors or omissions which may occur.

FOR MORE INFORMATION - Contact the Rockford Chamber of Commerce, 308 W. State St., Ste. 190, Rockford, IL 61101, 815-987-8100, fax 815-987-8122, or e-mail at info@ rockfordchamber.com. For advertising information call Lynette Jacques, Vice President, Member Investment at 815-316-4317.

Š Copyright 2017 Rockford Chamber of Commerce. All rights reserved. No portion of this book may be reproduced without expressed written permission of the Rockford Chamber.

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Dear Valued Chamber Members, 2016 was quite a year, with progress made in many areas. We are grateful for the engagement and support our members provide to have a healthy business environment.

During 2016 the Rockford Chamber launched the Center for Leadership Development, with a focus on developing trustworthy and competent leaders in every sector of the community.

Transform Rockford announced a series of projects it believes will make Rockford a Top 25 city by 2025 – and it invited the community to join in the effort.

As the business community’s public policy voice, with 1,200 members strong representing a workforce of 60,000, the Rockford Chamber committed itself in 2016 to political action; supporting candidates with a pro-business agenda in area elections through ROCPAC, its political action committee. Its Government Affairs Council met monthly to discuss public policy issues and present a collective and powerful business perspective to elected officials.

We said goodbye to the excellent leadership of Patti Thayer as the Rockford Chamber’s board chairman over the past two years.

Read on for progress made in many areas of the Rockford Chamber and the community in 2016 and learn about key priorities for the Rockford Chamber in 2017 in Leading. Business. Growth.

Center for Leadership Development The launch of the Center for Leadership Development, which houses the Rockford Leadership Alliance, was perhaps the top initiative of the Rockford Chamber in 2016. We are committed to developing, growing and encouraging future leaders in all sectors, and 245 people completed the RLA program focused on building trust competencies.

In 2017, the RLA focuses on building individual competencies that promote organizational health and develop high-functioning businesses. It kicks off with Patrick Lencioni, author of “The Five Dysfunctions of Team and The Advantage.” Members and their existing and emerging leaders are encouraged to join this important leadership development program.

Small Business Development and Growth Business growth is a key reason for why we have a Chamber, and we believe small businesses are at the very core of a strong local economy. The Chamber is excited to launch the Small Business Development Center (SBDC) in early 2017. We received initial approval by the State of Illinois this past December, and look forward to offering this important resource to move businesses forward.

Also in 2017, look for the rollout of a series of workshops addressing areas that small businesses told the Chamber they wanted to improve.

Workforce Development Developing a quality workforce remains an issue in Rockford, as it does in many urban areas.

The Rockford Chamber will partner with other agencies to develop a stronger talent pipeline addressing core workforce weaknesses (soft skills) and industry-specific demands as well (engineering, aerospace, machining, and healthcare).

Specifically in 2017, we will work on a summit of staffing companies who conduct lead hiring for area manufacturers to understand their experiences and look for opportunities to collaborate.

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We have a history of ineffective regional planning models. The Rockford Chamber will look in 2017 to Transform Rockford strategies that strengthen an inclusive, regional focus and will support other projects that align with our strengths.

Public Education Over the past six years, the Chamber has worked with the Rockford Public School District towards overall improvement in the public education system and a curriculum that addresses the needs of employers. In 2009, the Chamber launched a comprehensive survey of the business community’s views on public education, and an extensive plan was undertaken to address key priorities for employers.

In the January 2017 Voice, the Rockford Chamber published the 2016 Perception Survey, which contrasts the business community’s current opinions on public education with those in the 2009 survey. It reveals points of progress over the years as well as the challenges ahead for our community.

Crime and Civic Leadership I think you will agree that we as a community had a pretty alarming finish to 2016 with violent crime. In 2017, we will be experiencing newly elected leaders in many important local governments, and will work directly with them to address this issue. The Chamber and its Public Safety Council expects to engage elected leadership, public safety leaders and other agency support to work on strategies in partnership with these groups.

The Chamber will continue to offer its valued events, educational programs, publication and services to advance members’ economic growth and professional development, advocate for an inclusive, pro-business environment and cultivate business connections.

Stay tuned for more information in this publication, The Voice and social media, or call 815987-8100 for questions on how you can get involved in any of these key priorities. 2017 is going to be an exciting year!

Sincerely,

Richard Zumwalt

Board Chairman 2017-2018

Einar K. Forsman President & CEO

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Transform Rockford As president & CEO of the Rockford Chamber, I participated in Transform Rockford in 2016 as Spoke Team Leader for the Planning Spoke; which concentrates on how we plan as a community/region.

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ROCKFORD CHAMBER - rockfordchamber.com

Rockford Chamber Mission-Vision Leading. Business. Growth.

About the Rockford Chamber

The Rockford Chamber of Commerce is a market-driven, voluntary membership organization whose mission is to be the Rockford region’s leading advocate for business growth. The chamber benefits the community by leading in the promotion of economic growth, advocating for the interests of business, and providing services and educational opportunities that help our members grow.

Four Key Membership Benefits: Networking & Education

Members develop connections to grow their business and participate in targeted programs to develop personally and professionally.

Access & Information

Members get involved in issues of community importance and have easy access to elected officials and community leaders.

Advocacy

Members join to have their public policy voice heard, with their opinions and priorities delivered to local, state and national legislators.

Value

Members participate in programs and services that add dollars to their bottom line. Communications channels bring referrals and sales opportunities to their door; and targeted, effective and affordable advertising opportunities deliver results.

Publication Accolades

The Rockford Chamber’s One magazine received the 2016 ACE Award for Excellence in the publications category and was honored at an awards show at the Association of Chamber of Commerce Executives’ Annual Convention in Savannah, Ga., in 2016.

For five years, One magazine has featured profiles of business leaders in the Rockford area; all honorees of the annual People You Should Know awards. With a goal to inspire others to take the lead in business growth and community development, the 101 honorees were chosen for their ability to “roll up their sleeves” and make the world a better place to work and live.

In 2016, the Rockford Chamber’s One magazine featured the return of 40 Leaders Under Forty after a five-year hiatus. Forty business professionals and community leaders were honored at a reception in November at the Tebala Shrine Center and their stories of community involvement told in the magazine.

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Rockford Chamber of Commerce

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Business Education Council

The 2016 Breakfast Buzz Series included several great topics and speakers! In January, Members heard from U. S. Department of Homeland Security on active shooter awareness programs. Local media directors sat on a panel to help explain how social media changed their business. IGNITE’s Leadership Team shared truths about working with Millennials while Klaas Financial Asset Advisors, LLC presented on retirement planning for small business owners. Other topics included FLSA compensation regulations, wellness programs in the workplace, succession planning, social media and marketing strategies. Special thank you to Rock Valley College and Rockford University for hosting Breakfast Buzz in 2016. Additional thanks to our sponsor, RSM US LLP.

Business Women’s Council

Business Women's Council had a great year in 2016 with insightful topics and engaging speakers. Topics included making over your leadership brand, navigating your road to success and using social media to your advantage. Ending with our tradition of Time-Talent-Treasure in recognition of the Time out of busy schedules to attend the meetings, express appreciation for doing so, and acknowledging that each of us have unique Talent that is shared with others and it is a Treasure to Give Back to our community. Thank you to Rockford Country Club for hosting and MembersAlliance Credit Union for being our sponsor. This group is open to any woman business owner or who is employed by a Chamber member company.

Public Safety Council

The Chamber Public Safety Council was formed to consider ways to assist the local government and law enforcement community in reducing crime and increasing public safety in our region. Addressing crime is something that is important to all of us in order to have a positive place to live and work, and to attract visitors, new residents, and new businesses to our community. The Council has conducted research with the business community, hosted informational summits, and considered various workforce alternatives to help reduce recidivism.

Public Education Council

The Public Education Council for over six years has worked with the business community and the Rockford School District to address education priorities for student success and workforce skills. During 2016 the Council conducted a follow up survey to its members regarding the progress of District activities since the initial survey and action plan were developed in 2009. The overall results of the survey were positive in terms of the energy and direction that the business community was seeing. While achieving all desired goals will take time, the businesses were encouraged by the directions taken and the active engagement by businesses and the District in carrying out a strategic plan.

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Chamber Councils

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Ambassadors Club The members of the volunteer arm of the Rockford Chamber were easily identifiable at chamber events by their traditional red blazers or attire. They served as mentors and recruiters for new members, and were active at grand openings, ribbon cuttings, open houses and other chamber events.

What’s New: Introducing The Liaisons

The Rockford Chamber of Commerce launched a new team of volunteers, “The Liaisons,” who developed business connections by personally contacting members to better understand their concerns and discuss initiatives the chamber is working on.

Advantage Clubs Business owners, decision makers and sales associates networked and referred business to one another, but many members found the clubs to be so much more. (The clubs’ noncompetitive nature meant only one member from each industry was permitted per group.)

Advantage Club Originals & Advantage Power Network Club

“Our club doesn’t just focus on our individual businesses, but what we all can achieve together as a group.

We’ve supported many nonprofits as a group, and also support each other in our individual endeavors.”

– Advantage Power Network Club member Teri Watts, commercial & industrial real estate broker, Key Realty

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Caught on Digital!

Always a celebration, ribbon cuttings represented grand openings and expansions for member businesses in 2016

Key Realty, Commercial & Industrial - Teri Watts, Broker held a ribbon cutting on Jan. 13 at 6755 Weaver Road, Rockford.

Block Advisors (H & R Block) held a ribbon cutting on Jan. 14 at 7210 E. State St., Rockford.

Sylvan Learning held a ribbon cutting on Jan. 22 at 6330 E. Riverside Blvd., Loves Park.

SwedishAmerican, a Division of UW Health, marked the grand opening of its new Byron clinic with a public celebration on Jan. 23 at 230 West Blackhawk Dr.

Luna Studio held a ribbon cutting on Jan. 29 at 5906C Elaine Dr., Rockford.

Edward Jones held a ribbon cutting on March 15 at 4949 Harrison Ave., Ste. #128, Rockford.

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New York Life held a ribbon cutting on April 6 at 973 Featherstone Road., Ste. 114, Rockford with Chad DeMarre.

Remedies Renewing Lives held a ribbon cutting on April 7 at 220 Easton Pkwy., Rockford.

Ground Floor Skateboards held a ribbon cutting on April 15 at 333 E. State St., Ste. 50, Rockford.

Northern Illinois Money Smart Week held its kick-off event on April 22, 2016 at Riverfront Museum Park.

Rockford Rescue Mission Ministries held a ribbon cutting and dedication celebration for Pitney Place, 715 W. State St., on April 29.

University of Illinois College of Medicine at Rockford held a ribbon cutting for Glenn Netto Health and Wellness Center, 1601 Parkview Ave., on May 6, in collaboration with the YMCA of Rock River Valley.

A ceremonial groundbreaking took place on June 6 for Mercyhealth Women’s and Children’s Hospital along Riverside Boulevard and I-90.

Alize’s Grill held a ribbon cutting on June 10 at 479 N. Springfield Ave., Rockford.

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Rockford Supportive Living, LLC, held a ribbon cutting and grand reopening on June 14 for the Memory Care Floor at 2114 Kishwaukee St., Rockford.

Rockford Rotary Club held a ribbon cutting at the Rotary Labyrinth Dedication on June 15 at the southwest corner of Avon and West State Streets. Rockford Rotary celebrated its centennial with this gift to the community in Linear Park in the Ellis Heights area.

Rock House Kids held a ribbon cutting on June 20 for the new playground at 1325 7th St., Rockford.

1st Step Chiropractic, S.C. held a ribbon cutting on June 23 at 4519 Highcrest Road.

OSTI-Edgebrook Physical Therapy held a ribbon cutting on July 15 for its first clinic in the Rockford area at 1643 N. Alpine Road, at the Shops of Edgebrook.

Alden Park Strathmoor held a ribbon cutting on July 18 at 5668 Strathmoor Dr., Rockford.

Vici Fitness held a ribbon cutting on July 21 at 4911 26th Ave., Rockford.

Integrative Healing Center held a ribbon cutting on July 21 at 6019 Fincham Dr., Rockford.

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Rock Valley College held a ribbon cutting on Aug. 2 for the opening of “RVC Downtown” in the Rockford Register Star tower, 100 E. State St., Rockford.

A ribbon cutting took place on Aug. 10 for the Dedication of the Puri Family C.O.R.E. (Center of Research & Engagement) at Rockford Lutheran School, 3411 N. Alpine Road.

OSF Saint Anthony Medical Center held a “Topping Off” ceremony for its $85 million bed pavilion on Aug. 16. The pavilion is scheduled for completion in early 2018.

Goodwill Industries of Northern Illinois held a ribbon cutting on Aug. 17 for its first Goodwill Outlet Store at 740 W. Riverside Blvd., Rockford.

Allen Heating & Cooling Inc., held a ribbon cutting on Aug. 23 at 122 N. 2nd St., Rockford.

Lifescape Adult Day Program held a ribbon cutting on Aug. 31 at 1330 S. Alpine Road, Rockford.

Mercyhealth celebrated the opening of the new Mercyhealth Cherry Valley, 6998 Redansa Drive, Rockford, with a ribbon cutting on Sept. 13.

Rockford Career College held a ribbon cutting on Sept. 15 at 1130 S. Alpine Road, Ste. 100.

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The Pregnancy Care Center held a ribbon cutting on Sept. 29 at 4108 Morsay Dr., Rockford.

SwedishAmerican Medical Group held a ribbon cutting on Oct. 14 at 2601 N Main St., Rockford.

Howard Johnson Hotel held a ribbon cutting on Oct. 19 at 3909 11th St., Rockford.

The Byron Forest Preserve, along with the Rockford and Byron Area chambers, hosted a ribbon cutting on Oct. 20 to celebrate the opening of the newly renovated Jarrett Prairie Natural History Museum.

Illinois Material Handling held a ribbon cutting and open house on Oct. 21 for its new Rockford location at 3444 Precision Dr.

Personal Finance Co., held a ribbon cutting on Oct. 25 at 5411 E. State St., Ste. 4, Rockford.

Alpine Bank held a ribbon cutting on Nov. 7 to celebrate the grand opening of its new, 2,700-sq.-ft. branch at 1401 N. Main St., Rockford -- its 16th location.

Belcan Engineering, LLC held a ribbon cutting on Nov. 16 for its new facility at 3381 Forest View Road, Rockford.

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OSF Center for Health - Parkview held a ribbon cutting and open house on Nov. 30 at 1502 Parkview, Rockford.

Children’s Home & Aid Holiday Shoppe held a ribbon cutting on Dec. 9 at Our Savior’s Lutheran Church, 3300 Rural St., Rockford.

Envoy Mortgage held a ribbon cutting on Dec. 15 at 6876 Spring Creek Road, Ste. 124, Rockford.

Great ribbon cutting ceremony for AAR Corp.’s new MRO hangar at Chicago Rockford International Airport (RFD) with Senator Dick Durbin.

ATHENA PowerLink Mentoring

Kate Wirth of Lucette Salon/Spa was named as the 2016-17 participant in the Rockford Chamber’s ATHENA PowerLink® mentoring program, sponsored by PNC. Now in its eighth year, the program pairs participants for a year with a panel of area business experts to help grow their company -- a value of $40,000.

“It helped give us confidence that we were doing a lot of things correctly. The committee encouraged us to keep pushing forward and do the things we are doing, and to add a few more.”

-- Denise Phillips, Midwest Stone Source & Design Studio, 2015-2016 Athena Mentee

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Cultivating and maintaining relationships is an important part of business growth. To aid in connecting members, the Rockford Chamber hosts a variety of morning and after-hours networking events throughout the year.

Our Good Morning Rockford! events are a great way to start the day strategically through peer networking. Chamber member businesses are invited to host the event inside their organization, giving members a great opportunity to showcase their business. During 2016, Good Morning Rockford!’s were hosted by Oak Street Health, Huntington Learning Center and Advantage Club Originals (8th Annual Tee-Pee Tower at Hilton Garden Inn).

Business doesn’t stop once the clock hits 5! Our Business After Hours allow Chamber members to unwind while continuing to connect. Business After Hours are hosted by Chamber members looking to promote their business or event while building goodwill in the business community.

This year’s Business After Hours were hosted by Rockford Meld (at Giovanni’s), Phantom Regiment (at Rockford University), Klaas Financial, University Club and Tinker Swiss Cottage Museum & Gardens. A Business After Hours was also held at the Chamber’s Founder’s Day and Business Expo events.

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Good Morning Rockford! & Business After Hours

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Partnerships Some initiatives the Rockford Chamber was a part of involved collaboration from many businesses and organizations across the community.

Northern Illinois Money Smart Week

Money Smart Week began as a coordinated effort of the Money Smart Advisory Council, a diverse group of more than 40 Chicago-area organizations working together to promote personal financial literacy in 2001. It has grown to 5,400 events in 48 states Northern Illinois Money Smart Week launched in 2008, and on April 23 to 30, 2016, many area companies and nonprofit organizations hosted free classes and activities to help residents better manage their personal finances.

Northern Illinois Money Smart Week announced the winners of the Kid Essay Contest. Above, left to right: first place winner Donnie Burkholder, Thurgood Marshall; second place winner Mackenzie Forrester, St. Peter Catholic School – South Beloit; and, third place winner Jocelynn Hernandez, RESA Middle School.

FMA Manufacturing DaySM

The Rockford Chamber and many Rockford-area manufacturers worked with Fabricators & Manufacturers Association (FMA) to host Manufacturing DaySM for students to inspire them on great careers in the manufacturing industry.

• On Oct. 4, FMA held a panel presentation and reception on “How Manufacturing Drives the Economy.”

• On Oct. 6, Lincoln Electric and Superior Joining Technologies, Inc., held a hands-on technology exploration, “Virtual Welding Experience for Students.”

• On Oct. 11, Jeremy Bout, creator of the Edge Factor program and eduFactor educational tools, conducted his live, multimedia Rock MFG DAY experience for more than 375 students.

• On Oct. 11, a dozen area high schools visited and toured 12 manufacturers to learn more about their industry, careers and educational tie-ins.

Students also had an opportunity to tour Rockford Career College’s new welding training facility.

After a day of touring manufacturers, more than 375 area high school students heard an inspirational talk by Jeremy Bout of the EDGE Factor

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Business Luncheon Series

Building Habits:

In February, writer James Clear presented scientific-based tips on building and maintaining intentional habits. Those in attendance were able to better understand the role habits play in personal and organizational productivity and to make habits work for you rather than against you.

Preventing Cyber Fraud:

What once was hoodlums and mobsters is now hackers. With 1.5 million annual cyber-attacks, online crime is a real threat to anyone or any organization who utilizes the Internet. In March, retired FBI Agent, Jeff Lanza spoke on ways to grow the bottom line by preventing cyber fraud.

First Choice Schools:

Area education plays a large role in the business community. From providing access to a talented workforce to affecting the ability to attract and retain new talent to the Rockford area, local education greatly impacts the local business community. In keeping with tradition, Dr. Ehren Jarrett, Superintendent of RPS 205, shared an update on the progress of realizing RPS 205’s vision to be the first choice school for all families in the area at the Education Outlook luncheon.

The Healthcare Curve:

In an ever constant state of flux, the business and healthcare worlds face similar opportunities. With the advancement of technology, ever-new emerging distribution channels, increased regulation, and so much more, being strategic in either world can seem almost impossible. This year’s Healthcare Luncheon featured Aaron Gerber, MD, MBA, President of Sg2 and focused on innovative updates and strategy-changing tactics that can help businesses stay ahead of the changing healthcare curve.

Community Change:

According to MacArthur Genius award winner and speaker at our November luncheon, Bill Strickland, the power of the individual can be one of the greatest economic development tools in our arsenal, transforming our city one individual at a time. Strickland is the President & CEO of Manchester Bidwell Corporation an author of Making the Impossible, Possible. Guests were moved to better appreciate the importance of each individual in an organization, community or board and learned to harness that power to make significant community impact.

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Presented by BMO Harris Bank, the Business Luncheon Series keeps members engaged and informed on a variety of topics vital to the success of their business throughout the year at panels or presentations with topic-driven agendas. Also allowing for networking opportunities, this luncheon series is not one to be missed.

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Government Affairs The Rockford Chamber supports issues that contribute to strengthening the overall business climate.

During 2016 at its regularly monthly meetings the Government Affairs Council hosted several speakers including Rockford Fire Chief Derek Bergsten; Republican Candidate for Winnebago County Chairman, Frank Haney; Executive Director of the Transportation for Illinois Coalition; and also heard from Benjamin Brockschmidt with the Illinois Chamber regarding the proposed Infrastructure Constitutional Amendment.

The Government Affairs Council in 2016 recommended positions to the Rockford Chamber’s Board of Directors.

• • • •

Sponsored by:

Support for the Rockford Public Schools’ facility referendum of $250 million Extending the license for the Byron Nuclear Facility.

Support for the sales tax referendum for Rockford roads.

Support for the Constitutional Amendment for an Independent Mapping Process for Illinois Legislative Districts

Support for Constitutional Amendment on Transportation Funding

The Rockford Chamber supported the amendment to the Illinois Constitution on the Nov. 8, 2016 ballot – the Safe Roads Amendment – to protect transportation user fees for all modes of transportation from being taken for other purposes; believing it is good for the state’s and region’s economies and will hold government accountable for honest and transparent taxing and spending. Vote: Yes! by almost 81% of Illinois voters.

ROCPAC

Committed to political action, it supports candidates with a pro-business agenda in area elections through ROCPAC, its political action committee.

ROCPAC is the political action arm of the Rockford Chamber of Commerce and is independently funded. No Chamber dues are used to support the Rockford Chamber Political Action Committee.

Endorsement of Frank Haney for Winnebago County Chair

The Rockford Chamber Political Action Committee (ROCPAC) endorsed Frank Haney for Winnebago County Chairman on the Nov. 8, 2016 ballot. ROCPAC is organized to support candidates, communities and issues that advance a healthy economy and a favorable business climate for the Rockford region. Vote: Haney won the Chairman’s seat, defeating John M. Nelson (D). He garnered 53% of the countywide vote.

Reform with Rauner

Governor Bruce Rauner joined the Rockford Chamber of Commerce on February 9 at Giovanni’s to discuss Illinois’ transformation into a more efficient and effective state that delivers better value for every person in Illinois. Governor Rauner was joined by Lieutenant Governor Evelyn Sanguinetti. Governor Rauner spoke to the full room about plans for reform, the State Budget, and areas in which he sees opportunity both for the state and for business.

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In 2016, the Rockford Chamber launched Rockford Leadership Alliance (RLA) -- a focused, thematic leadership development program designed for business executives and high potential leaders in the Rockford region. The RLA’s annual focus is oriented towards addressing critical leadership gaps identified in the Rockford business community.

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Rockford Leadership Alliance

In 2016, RLA focused on developing deeper levels of trust for more than 250 participants through meaningful and engaging half-day workshops. Participants worked within small groups of peers, developing lasting relationships with other leaders in differing industries.

The program began with a kickoff workshop featuring Stephen M.R. Covey, author of “The Speed of Trust” at Giovanni’s. Throughout the rest of the year, participants focused on Stephen M.R. Covey’s core trust concepts: Deliver Results, Talk Straight, Demonstrate Respect, Create Transparency, Listen First and Extend Trust.

Participants also engaged in two 360° reviews, one at the beginning and one at the end of the year. The reviews were designed to solicit feedback from each one’s professional inner-circle as well as a comprehensive selfreview.

RLA Sessions

RLA half-day sessions were designed for meaningful interaction and engagement. Designed to focus on one of Stephen M.R. Covey’s core trust concepts, each session broke down the idea in such a way to provide participants actionable take-aways to improve their organizations, communities and themselves. Sessions were intentionally designed to allow for time from a speaker as well as facilitated discussion and activities.

Speakers included James Clear (Deliver Results), Michelle Gravelle (Talk Straight), Steve Thomas (Demonstrate Respect), Julia Kirby (Create Transparency), Leslie Pogue (Listen First) and Bill Strickland (Extend Trust). Facilitation was skillfully provided by The Anser Group.

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Thank you to the RLA 2016 Investors

Facilitated by:

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Rockford Chamber of Commerce

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Lead 360 Members include: Keri Benhoff, Stacy Bernardi, Kim Blascoe (co-chair), Jan Bowman, Amy Brewer, Karen Brown, Jedediah Cantrell, Paula Carynski, Shelly Cassaro, Penny Christians, Jean Crosby, Kelly Davit, Patti DeWane, Michele Diedrichs, Linda Gerber, Mary Jo Hare, Sherry Harlan, Emily Hartzog, Geri-Dee Hayden, Linda Heckert, Bobbie Holzwarth, Lynette Jacques, Saba Jaffery (co-chair), Lisa Johnson, Kris Kieper, Nancy Kolar, Angela Kay Larson, Penny Lechtenberg, Elizabeth Lee, Tonya Markert, Melissa McCormick, Kelly McWilliams, Laurie Miller, Joy Moriarty, Marcia Mueller, Diane Navickis, Linda Niemiec, Julie O’Rourke, Amy Ott, Michele Petrie, Betsy Pierson, Laura Pigatti Williamson, Michelle Polivka, Caitlin Pusateri, Linda Sandquist, Denise Sasse, Joan Schiffer, Sue Schrieber, Martina Schumaker, Amanda Shank, Teri Sharp, Sandie Soldwisch, Maribeth Speckman, Lynn Stainbrook, Kathy Stimes, Patti Thayer, Nancy Voss, Janis Waddell, Jennifer Whiteford, Peg Wilkerson, Barb Williams, Rhashonda Williams, Julia Zimmerman

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Lead 360

Lead 360, co-chaired by Kim Blascoe, Wipfli LLP, and Saba Jaffery, UTC Aerospace Systems, brought 70 top executive-level chamber member women together throughout the year. These C-Suite, presidents, vice presidents, business owners and general decision makers in their organizations worked towards broadening women’s influence in the region.

Increasing influence means increasing the number of women on non- and for-profit boards. In an effort towards helping place qualified women with opportunities that can use their talents, the Lead 360 Action Team partnered with Winnebago County to create an online database of interested women and open board positions. With the help of Winnebago County, what used to be a manual process now is more streamlined to help meet the need of boards and women faster.

New this year, the Lead 360 Mentoring Team paired 22 young professional women with executive-level women in 2016.

Mentors and mentees met routinely to discuss topics, including professional development, work/life balance and the advancement of women in the workplace.

“Through Lead 360, about 70 women are working hard to change our community’s perception of what it means to be a “C-Suite” executive.”

-- Patti Thayer, Rockford Chamber board chairman

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Leadership Rockford

The 2015-2016 Leadership Rockford Class was comprised of 45 professionals from various industries. The program kicked off with an evening reception at Forest Hills Country Club followed by an all-day retreat at Stronghold Castle in Oregon, IL. At the retreat, participants engaged in Real Colors – a personality assessment tool facilitated

by University of Illinois Extension. Following the retreat, the class met bi-weekly for eight months to discuss topics ranging from transportation and economic development to education and diversity.

As part of the program, participants were split into groups to work on projects for local nonprofits. This year, teams completed projects ranging from fundraising efforts to building board recruitment procedures; outlining housing program opportunities to marketing efforts. Projects were completed for Midway Village Museum, RAMP, Rockford Public Library, RPS 205 FIRST Robotics Team, Rockford Area Habitat for Humanity, LYDIA Urban Academy, Ski Broncs, Pink Heals, Children’s Home + Aid, and Family Counseling Services.

Celebration of Leadership To celebrate their efforts, the Class of 2015-2016 was recognized on May 19 at Radisson Hotel & Conference Center at the Celebration of Leadership. This year’s Keynote Speaker was 2014-2015 Leadership Rockford Graduate Kika Young, Forest City Gear.

2015-2016 Leadership Rockford Class:

Jeff Aurand, Brian Barthel, Cathy Bayer, Justin Burke, Letty Camarillo, Melissa Dalpra, Dana David, Christy Davis, Randy Fago, Nicole Fasano, Jarid Funderburg, Sherry Gaumond, Tim Gaumond, Jake Ghinazzi, Adrienne Head, Keith Hoerth, Terry Houghton, Nikki Jarrett, Brandon Johnson, Susan Johnson, Tonya Kalodimos, Chris Klarman, Jessica Koltz, Joshua Kunde, Brandon Latino, Chris LiCausi, Daniel McKee, Ifeanyi Mogbana, Brad Morton, Sean Muserallo, J.T. Quillen, Geoff Roemerman, Amy Rungren, Libby Samuelson, Ed Saulters, Michael Seuring, Purvi Shah Khare, Jennifer Sipes, Sandie Soldwisch, Meredith Stoll, Michael Sturm, Kim Thielbar, Kayleigh Thomas, Johanna Tousey & Rob Young.

Moderators: Gabe Chappell, Derek Erwin & Jessica Hayes Presenting Sponsor: PNC Bank

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40 Leaders Under Forty

40 Leaders Under Forty Honorees: Michelle Angileri, Lindsay Arellano, Laura Baluch, Alissa Bartel, Harneet Bath, Nathan Boelkins, Jody Booher, PJ Caposey, Kristin Crowley, Kelly Dinsmore, Derek Erwin, Heather Frankfort, Brittany Freiberg, Julia Halsted, Jocelyn Hare, Brian Huels, Joel Huotari, Rob James, Emily Keilback, Greg Keilback, Michael King, David Larson, Britney Lindgren, Jakob Loescher, Kyle Logan, Angelique Malone, Chris Manuel, Whitney Martin, Anthony Maynard, Keri Nelson, Katie Nelson, Dorothy Reddic, Guadalupe Reyes, Jason Smith, Lawrence Taber, Kimberly Thielbar, Erin Walsh, Anne Weerda, Larry Williams, & Brenten Witherby

After a five-year hiatus, the Rockford Chamber brought back 40 Leaders Under Forty; announcing 40 honorees for their contributions to the community at a special reception on Nov. 17 at the Tebala Shrine Center. Their stories and comments appeared in the Rockford Chamber’s One magazine, online and in the December Voice.

Presenting Sponsor: workplace staff & search

“We have to recognize, encourage and inspire leadership. This is our way to put a spotlight on people. Maybe they will find their way on boards. Maybe they’ll work on community projects. Maybe they’ll get involved with Transform Rockford. We want to not only thank our leaders but inspire them.”

– Einar Forsman, Rockford Chamber

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IGNITE IGNITE’s mission is to attract and retain young professionals to the Rockford Region. The group realizes this mission through programming, events and opportunities for young professionals to engage in and connect with their city and their peers.

TOP: IGNITE members learn more about Rockford neighborhood Churchill’s Grove pool and riverside.; IGNITE Cup concludes with closing ceremonies in August at Dinner on the Dock at Prairie Street Brewhouse.; Members of IGNITE Cup winning team Rockford Float Club give back to the community.

BOTTOM: Field Day is a favorite IGNITE Cup event every year.; Team RSM takes time out to create works of art.; IGNITE teams participate in Game Night as a part of the summer-long IGNITE Cup competition.

IGNITE Cup

Back for the third summer, more than 160 young professionals participated in this year’s IGNITE Cup. The summer-long event series is designed to engage young professionals in fun competition while encouraging participants to take in all the Rockford has to offer during the warmer months. This year’s competition included Bowling, Trivia Night, Spelling Bee, Field Day, Game Night and Foot Golf. The season kicked off at Greenfire on April 21 and concluded with the announcement of this year’s winning team, Rockford Float Club, at the closing ceremonies on Aug. 25 at Prairie Street Brewhouse’s Dinner on the Dock.

IGNITE Cup was proudly sponsored by SwedishAmerican, A Division of UW Health (gold)

INVOLVE, REACH & EDUCATE

Charged with providing IGNITE members with community development, professional and personal development, and social opportunities, the INVOLVE, REACH and EDUCATE teams offer opportunities and events for young professionals to take part in.

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In 2016, IGNITE partnered with United Way of Rock River Valley and the Ellis Heights Neighborhood. Members were invited to learn more about the neighborhood and then participate in Project 1013, a beautification project held in June. (www.project1013.org). Members also engaged with local schools to provide mentoring and classroom talks.

New this year, IGNITE members were invited to four Rockford neighborhoods during the “Won’t You Be My Neighbor?” series, sponsored by Blackhawk Bank. Because strong neighborhoods are a vital component to successful cities, IGNITE wanted to ensure that members knew where neighborhood boundaries were, unique characteristics of each neighborhood and ways to get involved. In 2016, members visited Jeremiah’s Development, Churchill Grove, Edgewater and Rolling Green.

During 2016, IGNITE also held 11 After 5 networking events in local establishments and provided professional development opportunities at Lunch Outside the Box events.

Visit igniterockford.com

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The Rockford Chamber provided opportunities for members to develop connections and learn from key community leaders through its evening and luncheon events. Here are some highlights.

Annual Dinner

The Annual Dinner took place on Jan. 21 at Giovanni’s, Inc. Keynote speaker was Stephen M.R. Covey, New York Times and #1 Wall Street Journal bestselling author of “The SPEED of Trust — The One Thing That Changes Everything.”

Presenting Sponsor: OSF Healthcare 2016 Citizen of the Year Award: Dave Rydell, chairman, Bergstrom, Inc. Rydell joined Bergstrom in 1963. He’s served a number of organizations, including The Salvation Army, Rockford Rescue Mission, Transform Rockford, Rockford University and SwedishAmerican.

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Manufacturing Expo and Dinner

The Manufacturing Expo and Dinner drew manufacturing industry and community leaders on April 14 to the Garden Hotel and Conference Center in South Beloit. Attendees, including students from seven area high schools brought by the Rockford Chamber’s Manufacturers Council, visited booths highlighting area manufacturers. Keynote speaker Eileen McDargh, McDargh Communications & The Resiliency Group, presented on the traits of a resilient leader.

Presenting Sponsor: QPS Employment Group “I didn’t know what to expect. But it was a great way to make connections. I spoke to everyone from hotel management to manufacturing leaders. Everyone seemed excited to be here.” -- Robert Bisconti, Bisconti Computers Individual Business Catalyst Award: Sagar Patel, president of Woodward’s Aircraft Turbine Systems and chairman of the Rockford Area Economic Development Council. Patel was instrumental in the establishment of the Northern Illinois UniversityRock Valley College engineering program.

Manufacturer of the Year Award: ANPEC Industries Founded in 1968 as a small general machine shop using manual lathes and mills. In 1993, the Pecatonica-based company was purchased by Brad Wagner and Doug Allen, who’ve worked to grow it.

5“There are three keys to success: you have to have faith, you have

5“ANPEC Industries has been around a long time. They get

to be willing to collaborate, and you must never stop learning.”

-- Sagar Patel, Woodward

it. They engage their employees, they support the community, and they’re an excellent model of what a good manufacturer represents.” – Einar Forsman, Rockford Chamber

Golf Classic

The annual Golf Classic on May 23 at Forest Hills Country Club kicked off a summer season of area golf outings.

Awards: First Place Foursome (score of 59): Dave Beto, Jeff Beto, Ned Gillette, Amos Yoder Closest to the Hole for Ladies: Penny Lechtenberg Closest to the Hole for Men: Chris Peanosky Longest Drive Lady: Kris Kieper Longest Putt Men: Scott Gould Longest Drive Men: Tony Madus Presenting Sponsor: SwedishAmerican, A Division of UW Health

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Women in Business Expo and Luncheon

The Women in Business Expo and Luncheon was held on June 23 at Giovanni’s. Women business owners Kathy Velasco, V2 Marketing Communications; Jennifer Anderson, Anderson Environmental & Engineering Co., and Stephanie Koch, Mary’s Market, held a panel discussion with advice for first-time business owners and the best business decisions they’ve made.

Presenting Sponsor: Mercyhealth

Woman Manager of the Year: Lesly Couper, Alpine Bank Woman Business Owner of the Year: Stephanie Koch, Mary’s Market Owner Woman Business Leader of Tomorrow: Pamela Murphy, MurphyRealty Inc. ATHENA PowerLink: Kate Wirth, Lucette Salon/Spa

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The Rockford Chamber celebrated 106 years at its sixth-annual Founders’ Day celebration on July 14 at Rockford University. University President Dr. Eric Fulcomer addressed the crowd. Representatives from many of the 15 founding and legacy members were in attendance. Today, the chamber is 1,100 member companies strong; employing more than 60,000.

2016

Presenting Sponsor: Rockford University Northern Illinois Business Hall of Fame Award: Williams-Manny Insurance Group and Benson Stone Company, Inc. The Northern Illinois Business Hall of Fame started in 1989 by the local Junior Achievement. The Rockford Chamber took over the hall of fame in 2012, and changed the focus from inducting individuals to adding companies and inducting the founder. There now are 63 individuals and businesses inducted into the hall.

professional development

Founders’ Day

Rockford Chamber of Commerce

2015

&

Business After Hours

5“We do what we do because we love it. We love the com-

5“It’s an honor to be recognized for our long history. I go back

munity. I look at the list of past honorees, and I’m humbled that we’re a part of it. These are folks who are making a difference in the community, and we hope that’s what we’re doing.” -- Dan Ross, Williams-Manny Insurance Group

to the work ethic of my great grandfather, grandfather and father. We’ve built our business on good, conservative principals.

We are locally owned, Rockford people. We have a long-term tradition and reputation in the community that means a lot to us.” – Andy Benson, Benson Stone Company, Inc.

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Business Expo

The Rockford Chamber Business Expo on Sept. 22 at Giovanni’s Restaurant and Convention Center featured businesses ranging from healthcare to hospitality to marketing. Keynote speaker Lillian Bjorseth, Duoforce Enterprises, Inc., presented “Get Maximum Networking Results from Your Chamber.”

Presenting Sponsor: Ticomix

“The expo has been great for visibility and reputation-building.

This is all about networking. We take time to walk around and meet other vendors. It’s critical.”

-- Mike Roberts, Ticomix

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The 2017 Board of Directors

looking to 2017

Executive Committee

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Richard Zumwalt Chairman Z Resource

Michele Petrie

Vice Chairman BMO Harris Bank

Dan Ross

Vice Chairman Williams-Manny Insurance Group

Amy Ott

Treasurer Boylan Catholic High School

Patti Thayer

Immediate Past Chairman Thayer Lighting, Inc.

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The 2017 Board of Directors Jan Bowman TLC Construction

looking to 2017

Andrew Benson Benson Stone Company, Inc.

LaVonne Brown Savant Capital Management

Paula Carynski OSF Saint Anthony Medical Center

Samuel J. Castree Staff Management, Inc.

Joe Castrogiovanni Giovanni’s, Inc.

Dr. Rena Cotsones Northern Illinois University

Jean Crosby Berkshire Hathaway HomeServices Crosby Starck Real Estate

Don Daniels SwedishAmerican, A Division of UW Health

Rebecca Epperson Chartwell Agency

Ira Grimmett UTC Aerospace Systems

Tim Honquest Honquest Family Funeral Home

Jeff Hultman Illinois Bank & Trust

Michael Iasparro Hinshaw & Culbertson LLP

Kris Kieper Machajewski YWCA Northwestern Illinois

Patrick Morrow Alpine Bank

Mike Paterson Mid-West Family Broadcasting

Mark Peterson CherryVale Mall/ CBL & Associates Properties. Inc.

John Schuster Rosecrance Health Network

Patrick Shaw RSM US LLP

Karl Swanson Rockford Bank & Trust Co.

Jon Thompson Butitta Brothers Automotive

Laura Pigatti Williamson Rockford Park District

Einar Forsman Ex-Officio Rockford Chamber of Commerce

John Groh Ex-Officio Rockford Area Convention & Visitor’s Bureau

Nathan Bryant Ex-Officio Rkfd Area Economic Development Council

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The Rockford

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Chamber Staff

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Staff contact information

Einar K. Forsman President & CEO

Heidi Garner Chief Operating Officer

Lynette Jacques Vice President, Member Investment

Doug Mark Membership Development Executive

Stacy Mullins Director of Events

Caitlin Pusateri Vice President, Leadership Development

Joan Sundvall Membership Contact Coordinator

Sue Boyer Member Relations

Doug Hessong Director of Publications & Technology

Stephanie Mathews Administrative and Finance Assistant

Doug Rand Accounting Manager/Controller

Einar K. Forsman eforsman@rockfordchamber.com

815-987-8100

Heidi Garner hgarner@rockfordchamber.com

815-316-4312

Doug Hessong dhessong@rockfordchamber.com

815-316-4338

Lynette Jacques ljacques@rockfordchamber.com

815-316-4317

Doug Mark dmark@rockfordchamber.com

815-316-4336

Stephanie Mathews smathews@rockfordchamber.com

815-987-8100

Stacy Mullins smullins@rockfordchamber.com

815-316-4302

Caitlin Pusateri cpusateri@rockfordchamber.com

815-316-4337

Doug Rand drand@rockfordchamber.com

815-316-4316

Joan Sundvall jsundvall@rockfordchamber.com

815-316-4320

Sue Boyer sboyer@rockfordchamber.com

815-316-4315

Rockford Chamber of Commerce Direct Line Call 815-987-8100

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Advertisers Index The Rockford Chamber would like to thank it's advertisers for supporting this publication.

The Alliance . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 38

Larson & Darby Group . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 39

Alpine Bank . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 36

Leading Lawyers . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . Inside Front Cover

Associated Bank . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 29

MembersAlliance Credit Union . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 40

Berkshire Hathaway HomeServices Crosby Starck Real Estate . . . . . . . . . . . . . Inside Back Cover

Mercyhealth . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . Back Cover

Bisconti Computers, Inc. . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 36 Blackhawk Bank . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 39 Brian Thomas Photography . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 39 CoyleKiley Insurance Agency, Inc. . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 36 Crescent Electric Supply Company . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 38 First Northern Credit Union . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 33

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Meridian . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 30 Mid-City Office Products . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 36 Northern Illinois University Conference Centers . . . . . . . . . . 35 Reinhart Boerner Van Deuren P.C. . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 34 Thayer Lighting, Inc. . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 35 TK Group . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 38

Forest City Gear . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 33

University of Illinois College of Medicine at Rockford . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 38

FurstStaffing . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 38

UTC Aerospace Systems . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 34

InterActive Safety Solutions Inc. . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 38

Van Matre HealthSouth Rehabilitation Hospital . . . . . . . . . . 37

Interstate Graphics Inc. . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 38

Woodward . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 37

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