Registration Open for the Inaugural MakerFest

Great River Economic Development Foundation (GREDF) invites regional manufacturing and logistics businesses, large and small, to take part in the first Tri-State MakerFest, to be held on Wednesday, October 18 from 9a-6p in the Oakley Lindesay Center, 300 Civic Center Plaza.

 

Tri-State MakerFest, sponsored by HOMEBANK, is a celebration of our manufacturing and logistics businesses and takes the place of Manufacturing Day. The event enables us to showcase more of our local businesses to area students (high school 9-12) and job seekers, giving guests an in-depth look at the manufacturing and logistics world, while promoting available opportunities.

 

“In banking, we know how important it is for area residents to have stable, well-paying jobs, like those in the manufacturing industry,” states Mark Hayes, HOMEBANK Community Bank President. “This is an opportunity to expose our high school students to this career path. The event is important to the future of our workforce and the economic viability of our community. ”

 

Business can participate in various ways including:

  • Setting up tech demonstrations to showcase company innovations,
  • Having a display of equipment, robotics or video presentation,
  • Presenting something interactive,
  • Having an exhibit for students and job seekers to promote available opportunities, discuss skills needed and take applications.

 

HOMEBANK president Mark Hayes continues, “At this event, companies can begin the recruitment process for their next generation of workers. What a great way to show our students the importance of manufacturing in our area.”

 

Businesses can register online at www.gredf.org under the Workforce Development tab. There, companies have a choice of booth size starting at $70, with option for both indoor and outdoor display. RSVP Deadline is Friday, September 22.

MakerFest is also in partnership with John Wood Community College, Workforce Innovation Board of Western IL, West Central Region Education for Employment System #240 / Quincy Area Vocational & Technical Center.