Cook County Fuels Manufacturing Growth with Workforce Innovation

Manufacturing is a cornerstone of Cook County’s economy, powering innovation and providing vital career opportunities across diverse industries. Despite its resilience, the sector faces evolving challenges, including talent shortages, technological advances, and global competition. The Good Jobs Chicagoland initiative addresses these challenges, fostering a stronger connection between workforce development and industry needs.

Good Jobs Chicagoland: Meeting the Demand

Supported by an $18.5 million grant through the U.S. Economic Development Administration’s Good Jobs Challenge, to the Chicago Cook Workforce Partnership ,this initiative is building a robust talent pipeline. By creating tailored training programs, Good Jobs Chicagoland ensures manufacturers can access skilled workers while offering equitable opportunities for residents.

Last month, Cook County Board President Toni Preckwinkle announced the first eight manufacturers participating in the program, including Freedman Seating Company , Ferrero , and Morrison Container Handling Solutions . These companies are set to benefit from a $650,000 investment to train 250 new and current employees in fields such as welding, CNC programming, and metalworking.

“Cook County is thrilled to support local manufacturers in meeting their talent needs,” said President Preckwinkle. “This program ensures that manufacturers have access to a skilled workforce while offering well-paying, family-sustaining careers to our residents.”

Spotlight on Freedman Seating Company

Freedman Seating Company, a family-owned leader in bus, rail, and commercial vehicle seating, is leveraging Good Jobs Chicagoland to provide advanced training to over 100 employees.

“Training our team through this program not only enhances retention and morale but also scales our training for the future,” said Craig Freedman , CEO. “It’s a game-changer for both our employees and our business.”

Manufacturing’s Role in Cook County

Chicago’s manufacturing sector is a national powerhouse, ranking second in output and generating over $102 billion annually. According to the World Business Chicago Research Center, the sector employs more than 418,000 workers across 12,000 businesses, encompassing key industries like food, metals, plastics, and electrical equipment manufacturing. Chicagoland also boasts the largest workforce in these areas nationwide and ranks second in pharmaceutical manufacturing, where employment has grown by nearly 10% since 2019.

While durable goods manufacturing employment has declined by 6.3% over the past four years, non-durable goods have seen a 4.4% increase. The food manufacturing workforce, for instance, has expanded by nearly 16%, underscoring the region's adaptability and growth in select sub-industries.

Programs like Good Jobs Chicagoland are crucial to addressing the labor shortages and skills gaps amplified by these shifts. By aligning with workforce providers and industry certifications, the initiative strengthens Cook County’s competitiveness, ensuring the sector’s continued contribution to the local economy and job creation.

How Manufacturers Can Get Involved

If your business is ready to invest in its future workforce, Good Jobs Chicagoland offers no-cost resources to help develop industry-recognized training programs. Whether you're looking to enhance your talent pipeline, seeking advice on training programs, or aiming to boost employee retention, Cook County's team of experts is just a conversation away. Visit goodjobschicagoland.com/manufacturing and register via "Contact an Expert" to connect with tailored support and start building your manufacturing success story today.

About the Good Jobs Challenge

Funded by President Biden’s American Rescue Plan, the U.S. Economic Development Administration Good Jobs Challenge empowers regions to create high-quality workforce systems that drive economic competitiveness. For Cook County, the focus is squarely on manufacturing—a cornerstone of the region’s vitality and growth.