Stay up to date with the latest from MCEDC in the May edition of The Development Digest—featuring Economic Development Week in McHenry County, MCEDC news, business resources, leadership insights, and investor spotlights driving growth across McHenry County. Discover new opportunities, programs, and partnerships supporting local businesses and economic development initiatives.  Read the full May Development Digest newsletter to explore what’s happening across McHenry County.

For nearly 15 years, Shane Nerby has helped drive the growth and operations of JA Group, a family-owned transportation, logistics, and warehouse company rooted in McHenry County and dedicated to delivering reliable service solutions across the Midwest and nationwide. As Vice President of Operations, Shane oversees two of the company’s four divisions, JA Frate and JA Logistics, helping lead operations that support businesses throughout northern Illinois, southern Wisconsin, and beyond. Shane’s journey with The JA Group began in 2011 as a messenger. Through hard work, determination, and a desir…

From infrastructure and workforce development to tourism, healthcare, education, and entrepreneurship, economic development impacts every aspect of daily life. During Economic Development Week, hosted by the International Economic Development Council, communities across the country celebrate the partnerships, projects, and people driving long-term growth and opportunity. In McHenry County, that impact is visible across every sector of the economy.  Building a Stronger McHenry County Together   Economic development is more than attracting new businesses. It’s about strengthening the business…

FOR IMMEDIATE RELEASE   April 29, 2026  MEDIA CONTACT   Kristen Gesicki  Marketing and Outreach Coordinator  McHenry County Economic Development Corporation   815-893-0895 | kgesicki@mcedc.com     Alicia Schueller   Deputy County Administrator   McHenry County   Aaschueller@mchenrycountyil.gov     The McHenry County Economic Development Corporation and McHenry County Board participated in a nine-day trade mission to Frankfurt, Heidelberg, Karlsruhe, Baden-Baden, and Hannover as part of the Greater Chicagoland Economic Partnership.  CRYSTAL LAKE, I…

Stay up to date with the latest from MCEDC in the April edition of The Development Digest—featuring upcoming events, business resources, leadership insights, and investor spotlights driving growth across McHenry County. Discover new opportunities, programs, and partnerships supporting local businesses and economic development initiatives.  Read the full April Development Digest newsletter to explore what’s happening across McHenry County.

With more than 25 years of shaping healthcare delivery and access across southern Wisconsin and northern Illinois, Jeni Hallatt, Vice President of Mercyhealth, oversees a plethora of programs and initiatives that touch hundreds of providers and thousands of patients.   Beyond her clinical and operational leadership, Jeni has been a driving force in connecting healthcare and the broader economic development of regions she serves, helping to ensure communities have the essential services they need to thrive.   A Career Rooted in Community Impact  Jeni’s path into healthcare administration…

 MCEDC 2025 YEAR IN REVIEW   Our 2025 Year in Review is now available. Read the report for a summary of business acquisition-focused programs and peer group highlights, key impacts of partnerships and business relocations and expansions, and what’s ahead for 2026. Together, we support economic prosperity in McHenry County.   Read 2025 Year in Review …

With more than 25 years in the banking industry, Kevin Thurston has built a career centered on helping businesses grow and thrive. As Vice President and Commercial Lender at Home State Bank, Kevin partners closely with local business owners to understand their goals and provide financial solutions that help bring their vision to life. His consultative approach, rooted in listening, guidance, and long-term partnership, has made him a trusted resource for companies across McHenry County.  Kevin began his career after graduating from Western Illinois University in 2000. He joined Bank One, wh…

    Meet the 2026 MCEDC Board of Directors   We’re proud to introduce the 2026 MCEDC Board of Directors, a dynamic group of leaders representing the public and private sectors who are committed to advancing economic growth across McHenry County. This year’s Board brings together diverse expertise in business, government, workforce development, and community leadership, ensuring MCEDC’s work remains collabo…

Peter Scholl has built his career in construction from the ground up. From reshaping vacant land to renovating existing spaces, he has always been captivated by the ability to create something entirely new. Early in his career, Peter honed his project management skills by supervising major residential and commercial developments across Northern Illinois before founding Scholl Construction in 2002.   Scholl Construction is a full-service company with three divisions: custom-built homes, extensive remodeling and additions, and commercial construction and remodeling. Known for its quality cra…