2025 Annual Luncheon Virtual Breakout Sessions

Description

Leading up to the IMA Annual Luncheon, we offer three exciting, informative virtual Breakout Sessions!

You and your colleagues are invited to join us at any or all events - (don't forget you need a separate ticket for the Luncheon) 

Reworking the Workforce: Identifying Gaps, Driving Change Tuesday, December 9 10:00 - 11:00 AM 

As industries evolve and labor demands shift, employers and policymakers are confronting persistent barriers that limit workforce growth and inclusion. This session explores the root causes of workforce gaps—from skills shortages and regional disparities to childcare access, transportation, and retention challenges—and highlights actionable strategies to overcome them. Participants will engage in collaborative discussion around innovative solutions, cross-sector partnerships, and policy approaches designed to strengthen workforce pipelines and create equitable pathways to opportunity. 

Economic Outlook Wednesday, December 10 10:00 - 11:00 

Global economic & supply chain pressures continue to force manufacturers to rethink production and investment strategies. Supply chains are improving but still haven’t returned to pre-pandemic norms, making resilience planning a priority and the uncertainty of the tariff landscape and trade policy is just starting to be clearer. This session is designed to help navigate the uncertainty with confidence by sharing expert insights on inflation, global trends and how to build resilient supply chains. 

The Future of Energy Thursday, December 11 10:00 - 11:00

In Illinois and across the nation, businesses and families are facing skyrocketing higher energy costs as demand increases due to new manufacturing plants, data centers, AI and quantum computing while energy supply is decreasing with the closure of gas and coal plants. Illinois needs an “all-of-the-above” approach for energy to ensure that manufacturers have access to safe, reliable, and affordable energy. This panel will provide a macro-level view of the energy landscape while discussing federal and state policies and their impact on energy.