MAC2026: Midwest Aerospace Conference
Wednesday, October 14, 2026 8:00 AM - Thursday, October 15, 2026 5:00 PM (CDT)
Description
The Rockford Area Aerospace Network (RAAN), in partnership with the Greater Rockford Chamber of Commerce, proudly presents:
MAC2026 – Midwest Aerospace Conference
Get ready for a dynamic, full-day conference packed with industry insights, expert-led sessions, and valuable networking opportunities.
What to Expect:
π Focused Programming
From keynote presentations to panel discussions, the content is designed to deliver practical strategies you can implement immediately to drive performance and profitability.
π€ Back Again – Exclusive Matchmaking Sessions
Meet one-on-one with top industry players. These moderated meetings are a rare opportunity to introduce your capabilities directly to key supply chain stakeholders.
Note: Matchmaking sessions are available to manufacturers only.
π’ Exhibit Hall
Showcase your products and services—or explore innovations from others in the field. This is also a great opportunity to connect and collaborate with peers. Exhibit space is limited and assigned on a first-come, first-served basis.
π« Exhibitor Registration includes:
One (1) 2-day MAC2026 Conference Tickets Included - a $350 value
Rectangular table (6’ x 30” x 30”)
Booth: 8' x 8'
Two chairs
Tablecloth
Don’t Miss This Opportunity
Mark your calendars for MAC2026 to collaborate, learn, and forge partnerships that will drive the aerospace industry to new heights.
π Registration Deadline: October 2 at Noon
π Day-of registration will not be available.
For questions, please contact Carmen Kellerman.
MAC2026 Hosts:
Schedule of Events
Day 1 – October 14
8:30 AM Exhibitor Arrival & Setup
(Must be fully set up by 10:00 AM in order to participate in tours.)
9:30–9:45 AM Welcome Address + Greeting to conference attendees and tour participants.
9:45–10:00 AM Load Buses for Tours
10:00–10:30 AM Travel to Location A
10:30 AM–12:00 PM Tour 1
12:00–12:30 PM Travel to Location B
12:30 PM Arrival at Location B
12:30–1:00 PM Lunch (Boxed) + RAAN Overview
NOTE: Participants must attend both tours.
1:00–2:30 PM Tour 2
2:30–3:30 PM Return to Embassy Suites + Break
3:30–6:30 PM Matchmaking Sessions
Three-hour matchmaking block to maximize participation.
Exhibits open in the main room; matchmaking in the upstairs River Room.
3:30–6:30 PM Exhibits Open + Open Networking
6:30–8:00 PM Networking & Dinner Event
Day 2 — October 15
7:30–8:30 a.m. Coffee, Networking & Exhibitors Open
8:30–8:40 a.m. Welcome
8:40–9:20 a.m. Market Trends
9:20–10:00 a.m. Keynote Address
10:00–10:20 a.m. Break/ Networking
10:20–11:00 a.m. Featured Presentation
11:00–11:30 a.m. Positioning Your Business for Growth
11:30 a.m.–12:10 p.m. Panel Discussion: Requirements to do business with Aerospace & Defense companies
12:10–1:40 p.m. Lunch & Networking with Exhibitors
1:40–2:20 p.m. Panel Discussion: M&A Insights
2:20–3:00 p.m. Panel Discussion: Cost Effective Approach to CMMC
3:00–3:20 p.m. Afternoon Break / Networking
3:20–3:50 p.m. Utilizing KPIs to Improve Production Efficiency
3:50–4:30 p.m. Advanced Robotics
4:30–5:10 p.m. AIβAssisted Manufacturing
5:10 p.m. Closing Remarks
Sponsors
Day 1 & 2 Individual Registration: $350
Day 2 Individual Registration: $225
Exhibitor Registration (includes one- 2 day MAC2026 Conference ticket): $1,000
416 S. Main St
Rockford, IL 61101 United States