MAC2026: Midwest Aerospace Conference

Description

Midwest Aerospace Conference - MAC2026

The Rockford Area Aerospace Network (RAAN), in partnership with the Greater Rockford Chamber of Commerce, proudly presents MAC2026 — bigger, bolder, and now a two-day event.

This year, we're expanding from a single-day conference into a full two-day experience built to deliver deeper insight, broader access, and more value for suppliers across the Midwest aerospace and defense industry. Join us October 14–15 for exclusive facility tours, high-level industry programming, and unmatched networking opportunities.

What's New in 2026

• Two Full Days — More sessions, more access, more time to connect.
• Exclusive Facility Tours — Get an inside look at two industry-leading operations: Collins Aerospace and Woodward. These behind-the-scenes tours are a rare chance to see top-tier aerospace manufacturing up close.
• Expanded Speaker Lineup — Hear directly from leaders at Boeing Commercial Aircraft, Fairbanks Morse Defense, Oshkosh Defense, and more.
• More Networking, More Often — From a dinner networking event on Day 1 to a full day of panels, breaks, and exhibitor access on Day 2.

Focused Programming

From keynote presentations to panel discussions, MAC2026 delivers practical strategies you can put to work immediately to drive performance and profitability. This year's lineup includes:

• Keynote: Fairbanks Morse Defense — Markets, Products & Strategies, with George Whittier
• Featured Presentation: Doing Business with Boeing Commercial Aircraft, with Janene Collins, SVP Supply Chain
• Oshkosh Defense Profile, with Ryan O'Quinn
• Panel: Opportunities in the Naval Shipbuilding Market
• Panel: M&A Insights, featuring leaders from Fairbanks Morse Defense, Vision One, and Rexnord
• Panel: Cost-Effective Approaches to CMMC
• Advanced Robotics, with Craig Zoberis, Fusion OEM
• Enhanced KPI Improvement Utilizing AI, with Mike Bigda, QX Impact

Exclusive Facility Tours

Kick off MAC2026 with guided tours of two of the region's premier aerospace facilities: Collins Aerospace and Woodward. This is a rare opportunity to see cutting-edge manufacturing and engineering in action — and it's included as part of the Day 1 experience.

Exclusive Matchmaking Sessions

Back again by popular demand: moderated, one-on-one matchmaking meetings that give manufacturers direct access to key supply chain stakeholders. A three-hour dedicated matchmaking block on Day 1 makes this one of the most valuable ways to build new supplier relationships face-to-face.

Matchmaking sessions are available to manufacturers only.

Exhibit Hall

Showcase your products and services — or explore innovations from others in the field. The exhibit hall is open across both days, giving you extended visibility and more opportunities to connect with attendees. Exhibit space is limited and assigned on a first-come, first-served basis.

Registration

Registration Deadline: October 2 at Noon Day-of registration will not be available.

Hotel Block for the conference can be found here.

NEW in 2026: Join & Go!

Come for the event, join for the year. MAC2026 attendees have the opportunity to join the Rockford Area Aerospace Network (RAAN) at 50% off their first year.

RAAN members receive:

• Direct access to a network of 500+ certified suppliers across Illinois, Indiana, and Wisconsin
• Visibility among regional OEMs and Tier 1 buyers
• Access to supplier development programs and showcases
• Technical assistance and AS9100/9110 readiness resources
• And so much more

RAAN Membership — Annual Investment (Join & Go promotional pricing for new members only)

You'll have the option to add a RAAN membership when you register — just select the level that best fits you or your organization. Membership details will be confirmed following registration. RAAN memberships renew annually until cancelled. Please note: a price increase is planned for 2027; memberships will renew and be billed at the adjusted rate.

For more information, contact Everett Butzine, Vice President of Business Expansion & Attraction.

Schedule of Events

Day 1 – October 14

Day 2 – October 15