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Development Digest | September Edition

Workforce Development Month | September 2025

Save the Date

Join us for an evening of celebration, connection, and inspiration as we honor the businesses and community leaders who power McHenry County’s economic vitality.

Mark your calendars for Wednesday, November 12th, and be part of one of the region’s premier events.

Interested in becoming a 2025 sponsor? Fill out the form below.

2025 Annual Dinner Sponsorship 
 

 

Built for Emerging and Existing Leaders in McHenry County

 

The Emerging Leaders Peer Group is the ideal group for rising stars in McHenry County to develop their leadership skills, expand their professional network, and connect with like-minded peers.

Apply to join the next meeting on September 10th and take the next step in your leadership journey!

Monthly meetings | 9:30 AM – 12:00 PM

Join the Peer Group
 

Ready to own and grow an existing business? Learn the ins and outs of business acquisition through our Entrepreneurship Through Acquisition (ETA) workshop. Over eight weeks, you’ll gain the tools and strategies to successfully buy, operate, and scale an existing business, while connecting with peers and experts who are on similar acquisition journeys.

Apply today to join the next cohort, running October 1st – November 19th.

Apply for Cohort 3
 

 

If you’re considering retiring, selling, or passing your business to the next generation, our Transition Advising program offers confidential, one-on-one guidance tailored to your goals and values at no cost.

You’ll work with experienced advisors to assess readiness, build a transition team, evaluate and strengthen your company’s value, and prepare for a successful exit strategy.

Learn More & Connect with Our Team
 

 

McHenry County Events

2025 McHenry County Water Forums: “Watersheds”

Join The McHenry County Department of Planning and Development to learn about water quality, flooding, land use, and resiliency in our community.

Hear from local experts and engage in a safe space to discuss solutions. No registration required.

Wednesday, 9.10.25 | 5:30 – 8:00 PM | McHenry County College, Luecht Auditorium

Learn More Here

Community Impact

2025 Student Intern Celebration

 

The Manufacturing Pathways Consortium recently celebrated the 4th Summer High School Internship Program, honoring the next generation of workforce talent!

Over 85 local high school students spent their summer gaining hands-on experience in McHenry County’s 10-week manufacturing and construction internships.

Learn more about MPC and sign up for the Summer 2026 Internship Program: mfgpathways.com

Read the Press Release
 

 

 

Mark Piekos, Executive Director

From the Desk of the Executive Director

  Workforce Development

 September is Workforce Development Month! Workforce development is the backbone of McHenry County’s economic growth, and we’re celebrating the people, programs, and partnerships making it happen. Read a letter from our Executive Director to learn how local organizations are shaping a stronger, more resilient workforce, and how you can be part of the impact.

Read More Here

#MCEDC Member Spotlight

 

Peter Austin, MCEDC Board Member

For 20 years, Peter Austin has served as McHenry County Administrator and as a dedicated member of the MCEDC Board of Directors, guiding growth, strengthening infrastructure, and championing collaboration across the region.

As he looks ahead to his retirement in January 2026, we honor his remarkable career and the lasting impact his leadership has made on our community.

Read Peter’s Story 
 

 

Investor Spotlight

Crystal Lake Bank & Trust

Crystal Lake Bank & Trust supports McHenry County’s economic development by providing tailored financial solutions to local businesses, including loans and commercial banking services. As a true community bank, they reinvest local deposits to help grow the county’s economy from within.

Marshall Wolf Automation

For over 40 years, Marshall Wolf Automation has proudly been located in McHenry County. As an independent, women-owned industrial controls distributor, they deliver technical sales and support directly to local manufacturers while investing in our community’s future through local hiring, skills training, and partnerships like the McHenry County College ‘Education To Empowerment’ scholarship.

Heartland Realtor Organization

Heartland REALTOR® Organization supports McHenry County’s economic growth by empowering local REALTORS® with tools, education, and advocacy to drive real estate success. Their work promotes housing development, protects property rights, and strengthens the local economy.

Investing in MCEDC means powering the progress of McHenry County

Your support fuels strategic services, expert insights, and vital regional partnerships that drive economic growth, attract new opportunities, and build a stronger future for our community.

Want to Make an Impact?

Become an Investor
 

 

CONNECT WITH US | 815.893.0895 | info@mcedc.com

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