When an organization notes its mission is to help Illinois’ small and mid-sized manufacturing firms, the staff at INB recognizes some familiar words. We, too, spend much of our time working with small and mid-sized businesses in Central Illinois.

When we heard Illinois Manufacturing Excellence Center (IMEC) talk about helping manufacturers identify performance gaps, build a culture of continuous improvement, and create process improvements, we were anxious to hear more. And when we did, we were impressed.

“IMEC provides resources most small- to mid-size manufacturers can’t provide on their own,” says INB’s Executive Vice President and COO Tom Gihl. “The organization helps with both planning and implementation, then works with clients to assure the changes bring the innovation, cost savings and sales improvements they intended.”

To show our support to IMEC, INB is sponsoring IMEC’s Manufacturing Round Table Jan. 25 from 5:30 to 7:30 p.m. at Engrained Brewing Company in Springfield. This educational session on risk management will be led by IMEC Technical Specialist John Remsey. John’s impressive profile shows he has both education and experience in many facets of manufacturing from finance and information technology to scheduling and safety.

This risk management roundtable will focus on how manufacturers can successfully integrate risk management concepts and philosophies to improve supply chain relations. In addition, you’ll have the opportunity to get a closer look at local brewer, Engrained Brewing Company. Light appetizers and beverages will be available. The event is free to Round Table members; $50 for non-members. To register, visit the IMEC website.

INB Commercial Lenders Evan Westlake and Mark Donovan will be there to learn more about risk management, IMEC and the organizations it serves.