Downers Grove, Ill. – As Congress continues to focus on building supply chain capacity and strengthening manufacturing in the United States, leaders in the aerospace and defense industry gathered at Regal Rexnord Aerospace Solutions in Downers Grove, Illinois, alongside Congressman Bill Foster (IL-11) to discuss policy priorities to enhance U.S. competitiveness and drive continued growth.
“When we talk about America’s industrial advantage, we’re talking about facilities like this one and the skilled men and women who are turning aerospace innovation into reality. Events like these are an opportunity for policymakers to hear directly from the companies that are building that advantage,” AIA President and CEO Eric Fanning said. “Congressman Foster has been a strong advocate for domestic manufacturing, innovation, and national security, and we look forward to working together to keep our supply chains resilient and secure.”
“As someone who built a manufacturing company right here in the Midwest, I know all too well the challenges these businesses face, but also the incredible opportunities they present for the local economy and workforce,” said Congressman Bill Foster. “It was a pleasure to meet with these leaders to discuss how we can work together to develop a highly trained workforce, advance cutting-edge technology, and strengthen businesses that can compete on the global stage and support our national security.”
“At Regal Rexnord, we see first-hand how a strong domestic supply chain, skilled workforce, and continued investment in manufacturing capabilities are essential to supporting our customers and advancing aerospace and defense innovation,” said Vice President, Sales & Marketing at Regal Rexnord Aerospace Solutions John Meyer. “We were honored to welcome Congressman Foster, AIA, and regional industry leaders to our Downers Grove facility to discuss the opportunities and challenges facing manufacturers today. By working together across industry and government, we can strengthen U.S. competitiveness, enhance supply chain resilience, and help America remain a global leader in aerospace and defense manufacturing.”
Now in its third year of expanded outreach, AIA’s supply chain engagement strategy emphasizes advocacy, collaboration, and connectivity with government. As part of this engagement program, the Chicago-area event provided a platform for manufacturers, operators, and technology providers to share insights on pressing issues such as defense investment, acquisition and foreign military sales reform, critical minerals, workforce challenges and opportunities, and how legislation shapes the ecosystem.
America’s aerospace and defense supply chain is a major driver of the U.S. economy – generating $500 billion in revenue, or 1.6 percent of GDP, in 2025 alone. The supply chain supports more than 1.1 million American jobs and is powered by an extensive nationwide network of thousands of small and medium‑sized businesses.
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