Primary Industries in Rockford
Rockford’s strongest manufacturing sectors — and the precision parts we machine for each.
Aerospace
Rockford is a major aerospace manufacturing center anchored by Collins Aerospace's extensive landing gear, actuation, and avionics operations — one of the largest aerospace employers in Illinois outside Chicago. Woodward Inc. produces aircraft engine fuel systems and controls, UTC Aerospace Systems maintains operations, and a deep network of Tier 2 suppliers machines flight-critical landing gear components, actuator housings, and sensor enclosures across the Rockford metro.
Explore Aerospace in RockfordAutomotive
Rockford's automotive sector is anchored by the Stellantis Belvidere Assembly Complex just east of the city, which has produced Jeep Cherokee models and is slated for EV-related investment. Rivian's Normal, IL assembly plant is within the supply corridor, and the region's deep CNC machining base — shaped by decades of aerospace and fastener manufacturing — serves Tier 2 automotive programs across northern Illinois.
Explore Automotive in RockfordIndustrial Equipment
Rockford's industrial equipment sector is powered by the region's deep roots in aerospace fasteners, machine tools, and precision manufacturing. Collins Aerospace (RTX) in Rockford machines hydraulic and pneumatic components for aerospace with direct application to industrial equipment. Woodward Inc. manufactures control systems for turbines, compressors, and industrial engines. Ingersoll Machine Tools (now Camozzi) built Rockford's precision manufacturing reputation, and the metro's dense network of machine shops produces pump housings, valve bodies, and gear components for industrial OEMs nationwide.
Explore Industrial Equipment in Rockford