The Illinois Manufacturers’ Association (IMA) has announced the addition of five new members to its Board of Directors. This move is part of the association's ongoing efforts to strengthen leadership and advocacy for manufacturers in Illinois.
“These new members bring years of leadership and experience, adding vital expertise as we reinforce our advocacy efforts on behalf of our state’s manufacturing sector,” said Mark Denzler, President and CEO of the IMA. “Manufacturing is the largest contributor of any industry to our state’s Gross Domestic Product, and we look forward to continued collaboration with policymakers and other stakeholders to create opportunities, grow jobs, and move makers forward.”
The newly appointed board members include Austin Walker from Boeing, Craig Freedman from Freedman Seating Company, John Cain from Scot Forge, Kristol W. Simms from Ameren Illinois Company, and Nirel Inman from Chicago Glue & Machine.
Austin Walker serves as Senior Manager of State & Local Government Operations at The Boeing Company. He manages government operations across Illinois, Indiana, and Missouri. Before joining Boeing, he was Vice President at the St. Louis Regional Business Council.
Craig Freedman is the CEO of Freedman Seating Company in Chicago. With a background in economics and business administration from Northwestern University and Harvard respectively, he has led his company to become a leader in seating solutions for various industries.
John Cain holds the position of CEO and Chairman at Scot Forge in Spring Grove, Illinois. His career began at an entry-level role within the company where he embraced its employee-owner culture before rising through various leadership positions.
Kristol W. Simms is Vice President at Ameren Illinois Company overseeing clean energy transition initiatives among other responsibilities. She has been pivotal in balancing regulatory compliance with economic growth while ensuring equitable access to clean energy.
Nirel Inman co-presides over Chicago Glue & Machine—a family business founded by her father—where she has gained comprehensive experience across different roles within the company.
The IMA remains dedicated to advocating for nearly 4,000 companies within Illinois' manufacturing sector as it continues its mission under this enhanced board leadership structure.