Industrial Advantage


Rockford’s industrial roots run deep—from furniture manufacturing to earning the nickname Screw Capital of the World. Today, the city combines that heritage with cutting-edge logistics and technology, offering businesses a central, connected, and cost-efficient hub. With a talented workforce and resources designed for growth, Rockford empowers companies to build the future here.


Infrastructure

Rockford, Illinois offers a robust and connected infrastructure network that supports business growth, efficient logistics, and long-term development. Strategically located along major interstate corridors and within a two-hour radius of Chicago, Rockford benefits from multimodal transportation assets including I-90/I-39 access, rail connectivity, and proximity to Chicago Rockford International Airport—one of the nation’s fastest-growing cargo hubs. The city's strong utilities, reliable energy capacity, broadband expansion efforts, and ongoing public infrastructure investments create a stable environment for both industrial and commercial users. Together, these assets position Rockford as a competitive Midwest center for manufacturing, distribution, and innovation.

Rail

  • 4 class-one railroads
  • 1 intermodal facility 
  • Canadian National, BNSF, Union Pacific, Canadian Pacific

Highway

  • I-90
  • I-39

Air

The Chicago Rockford International Airport (RFD) anchors a regional logistics hub, serving as a global gateway for air cargo and e-commerce fulfillment. Proximity to I-39 and I-90 corridors enhances site accessibility and supports just-in-time manufacturing and distribution operations.

Workforce

Rockford is home to a skilled, resilient, and manufacturing-strong workforce shaped by generations of technical expertise and a culture of hands-on innovation. With a labor shed reaching a million people, the region offers deep talent in advanced manufacturing, aerospace, logistics, healthcare, and emerging technology sectors. Local education and training partners—including Rock Valley College, Northern Illinois University, Rockford University, Rockford Career College and robust apprenticeship pipelines—ensure employers have access to job-ready talent and customized upskilling solutions. Combined with competitive labor costs and strong employer–education collaboration, Rockford delivers a reliable workforce built for today’s industries and tomorrow’s opportunities.

Regional Clusters

Advanced / Precision Manufacturing

Aerospace & Defense

Logistics & Distribution

Emerging Clusters

Partners

I-39 Logistic Corridor Association

Rock River Valley Tool & Die

IMEC