Description

For the Love of the Region brings together business and community leaders for a focused briefing on growth, investment, and opportunity across the Rockford Region.

Through real examples and forward-looking stories, this program highlights how leadership, reinvestment, talent, and trust are shaping what’s next — and why this region is worth believing in. Five stories. One region. Real momentum.

Hear from:

Jacob Bradt, Rockford Buzz
How leading with positivity and local pride can become a scalable growth strategy — without leaving home.

James Horton, Aqua-Aerobic Systems
How local reinvestment, strong partnerships, and customer-driven innovation fuel sustainable growth.

Emilee Christanson & Shayne Terry, Trekk
How thoughtful leadership transition and people-first values are shaping the next chapter of a regional company.

Chief Carla Redd, Rockford Police Department
How trust, public safety, and clear communication help create the confidence communities and businesses need to grow.

Kaylene Groh, Rockford Promise
How investing early in students builds a strong talent pipeline — and a more confident regional future. 

Why attend?

This briefing offers a clear, grounded look at the momentum shaping the Rockford Region. Through real stories from local leaders, you’ll gain insight into how growth, reinvestment, talent, and trust are driving opportunity — and leave with valuable context for your own business and leadership decisions.

Event Agenda

8:30 – 9:00 AM
Coffee, Conversations & Nosh
Start the morning the GRCC way — good coffee, good conversation, and time to reconnect before we dive in.

9:00 – 10:15 AM
For the Love of the Region
Settle in for a focused, theatre-style briefing featuring five local leaders. Each presenter will share a 10-minute story highlighting growth, reinvestment, and momentum shaping the Rockford Region.

10:15 – 10:30 AM
One Last Connection
Wrap up with a final chance to connect, exchange ideas, and carry the conversation forward.