A statewide bus tour showcasing Illinois manufacturing

Makers on the Move is a dynamic, statewide bus tour celebrating Manufacturing Month by shining a spotlight on the innovation, opportunity, and impact of modern manufacturing. Throughout the month, the tour will visit factories, technical colleges, and high schools across the state—offering an up-close look at today’s high-tech, clean, and sustainable manufacturing environments.

With each stop, Makers on the Move aims to inspire students, engage communities, and connect employers with the next generation of talent. This is more than a celebration—it’s a chance to redefine what manufacturing looks like and highlight the diverse, rewarding careers available in this vital industry.

Bus ScheduleSponsorship OpportunitiesRequest to Host a Stop

Bus Schedule

Friday, October 2

TCCI Manufacturing | Decatur
Plastipak | Champaign
Triptych Brewing | Savoy

Monday, October 5

University of Illinois Springfield | Springfield
American Building Co. | El Paso
WeatherTech | Bolingbrook
Freedom Boat Club by Brunswick | Chicago

Tuesday, October 6

Lake Park West High School | Roselle
Chicago Glue | Itasca
Aurora Specialty Textiles | Yorkville
Elgin Community College | Elgin

Wednesday, October 7

Swiss Automation | Barrington
Polar Wire | Wauconda
Scot Forge | Spring Grove

Thursday, October 8

Ferrera | DeKalb
J.D. Glidden Homestead | DeKalb
Regal Rexnord | Marengo
FMA Sparkforce Gala | Hoffman Estates

Friday, October 9

Daley College | City Colleges of Chicago
Ability Engineering | South Holland

More to come!