To address persistent workforce shortages in Illinois’ food and beverage manufacturing sector, the Illinois Manufacturing Excellence Center (IMEC) hosted in-person “BUILD. TRAIN. RETAIN.” apprenticeship workshops. The first two sessions in Lisle and Belvidere, IL, brought together regional manufacturers to explore practical workforce solutions. 
The interactive workshops provided employers with a step-by-step roadmap for launching Registered Apprenticeship Programs, including how to define competencies, align with U.S. Department of Labor standards, and access available grant funding and incentives. Participants did not just learn concepts—they left with clear action plans and the ability to begin the apprenticeship registration process immediately. 
Participating companies included: 

• Aurora Packing Company, Inc. 
• Home Run Inn Pizza 
• Jel Sert Company 
• MSI Express 
• NakiNoku 
• Eickman Processing Co. 
• Global Foods International 
• Newly Weds Foods 

By design, these sessions were intentionally small, regional gatherings that allowed for deeper discussion, peer learning, and individualized support. As a direct result of these events, several participating manufacturers engaged in follow-up one-on-one consultations with IMEC. At the time of submitting this success story, one company formally committed to partnering with IMEC to design, implement, and manage an Industrial Maintenance Mechanic Registered Apprenticeship Program. An additional company advanced to the proposal stage. 
This localized, hands-on approach strengthened engagement and helped move companies beyond awareness into meaningful exploration of apprenticeship as a workforce solution. The pilot workshops demonstrated how targeted, community-based events can drive real progress for Illinois businesses and their workforce needs.