FRAME THE FUTURE: Build Your Operating Model for Performance Excellence
Virtual Training Login will be provided by facilitatorLearn how to turn a performance excellence framework into your guide to developing an operating model for organizational improvement.
FRAME THE FUTURE: Performance Excellence to Boost your Company Strategy Training
Virtual Training Login will be provided by facilitatorLearn how to turn a performance excellence framework into your guide to developing an operating model for organizational improvement.
ROBOTICS IN ACTION: Why CNC Machine Shops are Automating with Robotics Live On-Site Demo
Fusion OEM 6951 High Grove Blvd, Burr Ridge, ILAttention CNC machine shop owners & managers: See 0the true economic benefits of robotic automation and how your production team can benefit.
DEVELOP YOUR TEAM: Building your Solid House of Workforce Development Webinar
Webinar Webinar link will be provided after registrationIntroducing elements, focus points, & processes to improve your House of Workforce, addressing ongoing struggle with workforce development.
Closing the Gender Gap With Wellness Strategies | Women in Manufacturing Illinois
Webinar Webinar link will be provided after registrationJoin an enlightening webinar on leveraging wellness strategies to make manufacturing workplaces more inclusive and attractive to women.
ADVANCE WITH AUTOMATION: A New Approach To Automated Parts Feeding Webinar
Webinar Webinar link will be provided after registrationLearn how flexible part feeding systems can improve automated applications with complex parts and to simplify frequent part changes.
RESOLVE IT NOW: Problem Solving 4-Part Training Series (June/July)
Webinar Webinar link will be provided after registrationVirtual training to help you problem solve – and resolve root causes – utilizing various methods to increase efficiency and improve processes.
SMART MANUFACTURING TODAY – Apps for the Factory Floor Webinar
Webinar Webinar link will be provided after registrationCalling all manufacturers to learn about advanced digital technologies that gather to-the-minute data to inform production and processes.
PASS THE TORCH: Where to Begin to Create an Effective Succession Plan Webinar
Webinar Webinar link will be provided after registrationHighlighting how succession planning supports strategic planning and the future of work to help organizations continue to evolve and thrive.
BUILD YOUR WORKFORCE: Strengthen and Diversify your Manufacturing Talent Pipeline with Apprenticeships Webinar
Webinar Webinar link will be provided after registrationWith today’s skilled worker shortage, learn how an well-developed apprenticeship program allows you to grow your own talented workforce.
MAINTAIN HIGH QUALITY: Virtual Quality Auditing Webinar
Webinar Webinar link will be provided after registrationQMS systems require regularly-scheduled audits. Learn how companies integrate and prepare for virtual audits as part of their processes.
Shades of Green Manufacturing: Power Your Sustainability Practices with Future-Focused Jobs
Webinar Webinar link will be provided after registrationLearn how manufacturers can map today’s roles to tomorrow’s green manufacturing jobs, and then upskill their current workers accordingly.
WHERE WORK HAPPENS: The Power of Gemba Walks for Continuous Improvement Webinar
Webinar Webinar link will be provided after registrationLearn best practices for manufacturers to integrate Gemba Walks into your continuous improvement processes, toward increased productivity.
IMIN Network: HELP WANTED: Recruiting Talent and Overturning Turnover in a Post-Pandemic Storm
Danville Area Community College 2000 East Main St, Bremer Conference Center Room 109, Danville, ILPresented by IMIN Networking Group in conjunction with Danville Area Community College, Vermilion Advantage, and IMEC
GROW YOUR BUSINESS: Breaking into Government Contracting Webinar
Webinar Webinar link will be provided after registrationThe U.S. Government is the world’s largest buyer of products and services. Learn the basics of government contracting by joining this webinar.
IMPROVE CUSTOMER TRUST: Manage Expectations and Have the Hard Conversations Webinar
Webinar Webinar link will be provided after registrationEquip your sales & customer service teams with skills for proactive conversations, to manage expectations & turn complaints into opportunities.
START OFF STRONG: Onboarding New Employees for Long-Term Success Webinar
Webinar Webinar link will be provided after registrationHighlighting 3 key areas for companies to focus on during new employee onboarding to increase early engagement and long-term retention.
TRAIN YOUR TEAM: USDOT HazMat Employee Training Requirements Webinar
Webinar Webinar link will be provided after registrationLearn details of USDOT training requirements for any employee whose job has a direct affect on the safe transportation of hazardous material.
DISCOVER CNC AUTOMATION: How Machine Shops Can Automate with Robotics + Live On-Site Demo
Fusion OEM 6951 High Grove Blvd, Burr Ridge, ILAttention IL CNC machine shop owners and managers! See automation in action and learn the true economic and workforce benefits of robotic automation.
BE THE CHANGE: Corporate Social Responsibility – Doing Good to Do Better Workshop for Illinois Manufacturers
Webinar Webinar link will be provided after registrationThe first of 3 sessions about CSR, introducing why the integration of social concerns into operations is good business for manufacturers.
MAKE STEADY PROGRESS: CMMC Cybersecurity 15-Part Training Series for Manufacturers
Virtual Training Login will be provided by facilitator15 month series guiding you to maintain DoD contracts by meeting cybersecurity requirements through CMMC and DFARS NIST 800-171 compliance.
AGILITY IN TECH: Embrace Tech Beyond your IT Team for Standardized Work Webinar
Webinar Webinar link will be provided after registrationLearn how preparing your team – beyond IT – to use implement technology can impact standardized work and readiness for Industry 4.0.
FIND AND KEEP: Improve Talent Acquisition and Employee Retention Webinar
Webinar Webinar link will be provided after registrationThis webinar will address the common challenge of finding and retaining a skilled manufacturing workforce.
TAKE SMALL STEPS: Better Every Day with Continuous Improvement Webinar
Webinar Webinar link will be provided after registrationA quick-hit webinar to share the basics of continuous improvement in manufacturing, and how to adopt the practices to increase efficiency.
PROTECT YOUR TEAM: USDOT Hazardous Material Employee Training
Virtual Training Login will be provided by facilitatorComplete the USDOT training requirements for all employee whose job has a direct impact on the safe transportation of hazardous material.
LEVERAGE YOUR ERP: How to Achieve, Maintain, and Sustain Compliance Webinar **Rescheduled to September 9**
Webinar Webinar link will be provided after registrationAn ERP system can help you overcome roadblocks to meet & sustain compliance requirements, especially in aerospace and defense manufacturing.
SAFE AND SOUND: Safety and Health in Southern Illinois
Dunn-Richmond Economic Development Center 1740 Innovation Dr., Carbondale, ILLearn best practices for creating a safe and healthy workplace for your team, as we celebrate Safe & Sound Week across Southern Illinois.
MAXIMIZE YOUR MACHINES: Total Predictive Maintenance for Equipment Effectiveness Virtual Training Series **Postponed**
Webinar Webinar link will be provided after registrationTPM series to help you change from a run-to-failure culture, establish proactive maintenance, and drive the improved performance you seek.
KNOW THE LAW: Intro to EPA Hazardous Waste Training Webinar
Webinar Webinar link will be provided after registrationLearn details of US EPA training requirements & your responsibilities for any employee whose job puts them in contact with hazardous waste.
BE THE CHANGE: Corporate Social Responsibility – Incorporating CSR into Your Brand Workshop for Illinois Manufacturers
Webinar Webinar link will be provided after registrationSession 2 of 3 on CSR, highlighting how CSR positively impacts recruiting and retaining top talent + branding as a good corporate citizen.
BUILD LEADERS WITHIN: Key Skills to Develop your Front-Line Leaders Webinar
Webinar Webinar link will be provided after registrationQuick-hit webinar sharing top skills to develop in your leaders – both new or experienced – to improved employee engagement & lower turnover.
MAKE STEADY PROGRESS: CMMC Cybersecurity 15-Part Training Series for Manufacturers
Virtual Training Login will be provided by facilitator15 month series guiding you to maintain DoD contracts by meeting cybersecurity requirements through CMMC and DFARS NIST 800-171 compliance.
ROADMAP TO SECURITY: Create your Plan to Become Cybersecure Webinar
Webinar Webinar link will be provided after registrationLearn common cybersecurity gaps and missing policies at Illinois manufacturers, and develop a strategy to improve your cyber practices.
LEVERAGE YOUR ERP: How to Achieve, Maintain, and Sustain Compliance Webinar
Webinar Webinar link will be provided after registrationAn ERP system can help you overcome roadblocks to meet & sustain compliance requirements, especially in aerospace and defense manufacturing.
PROSPECT WITH PURPOSE: A Strategic Approach to New Customer Prospecting Webinar
Webinar Webinar link will be provided after registrationAs virtual sales continues, learn to adapt your prospecting strategy for new customers to increase success, revenue & avoid common pitfalls.
ADVANCED MANUFACTURING EXPLAINED: What does Industry 4.0 REALLY Mean for Me? Webinar **Rescheduled from September 16**
Webinar Webinar link will be provided after registrationIndustry 4.0 is a hot topic – learn how different technologies can help manufacturers increase production efficiencies, quality and safety.
LEARN BY DOING: A Workshop to Refresh the Leadership Skills of Your Team (TWI)
NIU Rockford 8500 E. State St, Rockford, IL, United StatesRefresh your Training Within Industry skills and develop your Action Plan to implement the TWI training methodology at your company.
ENGAGE AND INSPIRE: Leader Skills for Improving Employee Engagement Training Series
Virtual Training Login will be provided by facilitator7 sessions to teach skills for leaders across an organization to effectively communicate and connect with every individual on one’s team.
TRAIN AND PROTECT: EPA Hazardous Waste Personnel Training
Virtual Training Login will be provided by facilitatorIn this three hour virtual training to meet the annual USEPA training requirement for producer of hazardous waste, aka RCRA training.
MANDATORY VACCINE POLICIES: Legal Considerations for Employers Webinar
Webinar Webinar link will be provided after registrationYou want to keep your employees safe. This session outlines legal considerations to implementing a COVID-19 vaccine policy.
TRUE TURNOVER COSTS: Create Your Strategic Plan for Workforce Stability Lunch and Learn
John Wood Community College – Workforce Development Center 4220 Kochs Lane, Room W112, Quincy, ILLearn the hidden costs of employee turnover, and how to improve retention, satisfaction and your bottom line with a workforce strategic plan.
Artificial Intelligence in Manufacturing: Real World Success Stories and Lessons Learned Webinar
Webinar Webinar link will be provided after registrationAI projects improve equipment uptime, increase quality, and reduce scrap – for improved bottom lines and profits. Join for lessons learned, key success drivers and potential pitfalls.
BE THE CHANGE: Corporate Social Responsibility – Leadership for a Changing World Workshop for Illinois Manufacturers
Webinar Webinar link will be provided after registrationThe final session on CSR, outlining how inclusive leaders can develop a diverse and inclusive team for improved productivity & engagement.
End of Summer Happy Hour with Women in Manufacturing Illinois
Azul Mariscos 1177 N Elston, Chicago, ILNetwork with women in manufacturing, and join the discussion on current trends in manufacturing.
DEMYSTIFY CYBER INSURANCE: How Controls Can Save Manufacturers Money and Increase Protection Webinar
Webinar Webinar link will be provided after registrationProviding an overview of cybersecurity insurance for manufacturers, information and operational controls, and key cyber risks/gaps to address.
ROADMAP TO SECURITY: Cybersecurity Self-Assessment and Workshop – Quad Cities
Quad Cities – TBD Quad Cities, ILAfter completing a cybersecurity self-assessment, join with manufacturers in your area to discuss the results and determine your next steps.
MAKE STEADY PROGRESS: CMMC Cybersecurity 15-Part Training Series for Manufacturers
Virtual Training Login will be provided by facilitator15 month series guiding you to maintain DoD contracts by meeting cybersecurity requirements through CMMC and DFARS NIST 800-171 compliance.
ExporTech Virtual Cohort, Fall 2021 | Application Deadline
Application DeadlineRegistration is open for ExporTech, a national program that assists manufacturers to develop a strategic and proactive approach to exporting.
ROADMAP TO SECURITY: Cybersecurity Self-Assessment and Workshop – Chicago Area
Chicago Area TBD IL, United StatesAfter completing a cybersecurity self-assessment, join with manufacturers in your area to discuss the results and determine your next steps.
EXPAND YOUR SEARCH: Recruitment Marketing in a Digital World Webinar
Webinar Webinar link will be provided after registrationDigital marketing strategies can help your company to recruit talent more effectively, connecting you the employees you need – NOW.
AUTOMATION WORKFORCE PRODUCTIVITY: How Illinois Manufacturers are Adopting Advanced Technologies Webinar
Webinar Webinar link will be provided after registrationLearn 10 things to know about how Illinois manufacturers are implementing advanced manufacturing, plus benefits, opportunities & obstacles.
STEPS FOR PROTECTION: Cybersecurity Day at John Wood Community College
JWCC Paul Heath Community Education and Fine Arts Center 1301 South 48th St., Auditorium, Quincy, ILSpend the day learning to overcome common missteps in cybersecurity protection, at the company, employee and personal levels.
CATCH YOUR BREATH: Improve Team Engagement in Manufacturing Amidst Changes Workshop
Virtual Training Login will be provided by facilitatorEngaged employees – especially in times of constant change – can be the key to maintaining quality and production and reducing turnover.
ADVANCED MANUFACTURING EXPLAINED: IoT – Data Gathering Sensors to Inform Your Operations Webinar
Webinar Webinar link will be provided after registrationLearn how to plan out the best places to start with data gathering sensors, which inform strategy and production at your facility.
ROADMAP TO SECURITY: Cybersecurity Self-Assessment and Workshop – Northern Illinois
Rockford Area – TBD Rockford, IL, United StatesAfter completing a cybersecurity self-assessment, join with manufacturers in your area to discuss the results and determine your next steps.
ROADMAP TO SECURITY: Cybersecurity Questionnaire and Virtual Workshop
Virtual Training Login will be provided by facilitatorAfter completing a cybersecurity questionnaire, join with manufacturers in to discuss the results, determine your next steps + share tips.
How Smaller Manufacturers Can Develop Risk Management Strategies for their Supply Chains
Webinar Webinar link will be provided after registrationLearn how to mitigate the business risks of today’s disruptions while building a more resilient supply chain.
Building a Sustainable Workforce Through Apprenticeships and the Integration of Advanced Technologies Webinar
Webinar Webinar link will be provided after registrationIllinois manufacturers will share how apprenticeships and the integration of advanced technologies are helping build a sustainable workforce.
Building Personal Resilience in Today’s Workplace with Women in Manufacturing Illinois
Riverside Receptions 35 North River Lane, Geneva, ILNetwork with women in manufacturing and learn, through case studies, tactics to avoid burnout and build resilience for managing job stress.
ROADMAP TO SECURITY: Cybersecurity Self-Assessment and Workshop – Central Illinois
Peoria Next Innovation Center 801 W. Main St., Peoria, ILAfter completing a cybersecurity self-assessment, join with manufacturers in your area to discuss the results and determine your next steps.
DISCOVER CNC AUTOMATION: How Machine Shops Can Automate with Robotics + Live On-Site Demo
Fusion OEM 6951 High Grove Blvd, Burr Ridge, ILAttention IL CNC machine shop owners and managers! See automation in action and learn the true economic and workforce benefits of robotic automation.
How We Did It: A Conversation with Manufacturers about Overcoming Obstacles and Achieving Success
Webinar Webinar link will be provided after registrationHear from woman owned manufacturers on their journeys, and sharing best practices and advice that can help entrepreneurs in all industries.
Practicality of USMCA: How to Apply the Regulations Webinar
Webinar Webinar link will be provided after registrationSession outlining important developments included in the USMCA, and how to efficiently meet the trade requirements of USMCA.
IGNITE YOUR FUTURE: Automation and Workforce Solutions for Manufacturers
Richard J. Daley College 7500 S Pulaski Rd., Chicago, ILJoin IMEC and Richard J. Daley College for strategies and opportunities for manufacturers to embrace automation and overcome the workforce skills gap.
AUTOMATE YOUR FACILITY: Collaborative Robotics Automation Conference
SWIC (Southwestern Illinois College) 4950 Maryville Road, Granite City, ILThis hands-on conference introduces how to leverage cobots to maximize ROI, plus increase productivity, solve labor challenges, reduce errors & improve safety.
MAKE STEADY PROGRESS: CMMC Cybersecurity 15-Part Training Series for Manufacturers
Virtual Training Login will be provided by facilitator15 month series guiding you to maintain DoD contracts by meeting cybersecurity requirements through CMMC and DFARS NIST 800-171 compliance.
LEADER STANDARD WORK: The Glue of Sustaining Continuous Improvement Webinar
Webinar Webinar link will be provided after registrationLearn how Leader Standard Work instills shared ownership and accountability across a team for continuous improvement practices.
The Essential Role of a Freight Forwarder Webinar
Webinar Webinar link will be provided after registrationLearn how freight forwarders work with exporters, shipping companies, banks & government to make sure your transactions are compliant & that you are paid for overseas sales.
MANUFACTURING CAREER TRAINING: Build the Team You Need Now and into the Future
Webinar Webinar link will be provided after registrationBy investing in training and development programs for your workforce, you can create the skilled workforce you need now and into the future.
DIVERSIFY YOUR WORKFORCE: The Business Case for Diversity in Manufacturing Webinar
Webinar Webinar link will be provided after registrationLearn how a focus on building a diverse and inclusive manufacturing workplace can increase innovation, teamwork – and your bottom line.
MANDATORY VACCINE REQUIREMENT: Legal Considerations of the COVID-19 Vaccine and Testing Emergency Temporary Standard Webinar
Webinar Webinar link will be provided after registrationIncrease understanding of the legal & practical considerations of the Mandatory COVID-19 Vaccination & Testing Emergency Temporary Standard.
GROW YOUR BUSINESS: Breaking into Government Contracting Webinar
Webinar Webinar link will be provided after registrationThe U.S. Government is the world’s largest buyer of products and services. Learn the basics of government contracting by joining this webinar.
UPFRONT AND TRANSPARENT: How to Share Supply Chain Challenges and Build Customer Relationships Webinar **POSTPONED**
Webinar Webinar link will be provided after registrationManaging customer expectations in times of supply chain interruptions can help your salespeople improve relationships with your customers.
ADVANCED MANUFACTURING EXPLAINED: Automation – A Cost-Effective Solution for Small and Mid-Sized Manufacturers Webinar
Webinar Webinar link will be provided after registrationSmall manufacturers can see great results with the integration of cost-effective automation. Join IMEC to learn more!
ENGAGE AND INSPIRE: Leader Skills for Improving Employee Engagement Training Series
Virtual Training Login will be provided by facilitator7 sessions to teach skills for leaders across an organization to effectively communicate and connect with every individual on one’s team.
MAKE STEADY PROGRESS: CMMC Cybersecurity 15-Part Training Series for Manufacturers
Virtual Training Login will be provided by facilitator15 month series guiding you to maintain DoD contracts by meeting cybersecurity requirements through CMMC and DFARS NIST 800-171 compliance.
*Postponed* MAXIMIZE YOUR MACHINES: Total Predictive Maintenance for Equipment Effectiveness Virtual Training Series
Virtual Training Login will be provided by facilitatorTPM series to help you change from a run-to-failure culture, establish proactive maintenance, and drive the improved performance you seek.
CMMC 2.0 UPDATES: Changes to the Cybersecurity Requirements of DoD Suppliers Webinar
Webinar Webinar link will be provided after registrationLearn details of CMMC 2.0, updating the cybersecurity requirements and processes of companies in the US Department of Defense supply chain.
MANAGE YOUR RISKS: Leveraging Security Frameworks To Protect Your Intellectual Property | VIA Innovation Excellence Forum
Webinar Webinar link will be provided after registrationAdopting a cyber-resilient mindset and following a recognized cybersecurity framework is key to protecting your IP and driving innovation.
Holiday Lunch and Book Drive | Women in Manufacturing Illinois Chapter
Shaw’s Crab House 1900 East Higgins Road, Schaumburg, ILEnjoy lunch, presentation and conversation on today’s hot button issues in manufacturing, all while supporting a children’s book drive.
Celebration of Manufacturing Expo and Dinner | Rockford Chamber of Commerce
Embassy Suites by Hilton Rockford Riverfront & Rockford Conference Center, 416 S Main St, Rockford, ILJoin with your Northern Illinois neighbors to celebrate the people and companies who make manufacturing thrive in the region.
BEAT THE COMPETITION: How to Deliver and Win Price Increases Webinar
Webinar Webinar link will be provided after registrationPrepare your sales people to maintain solid customer relationships, even when price increases threaten customer loyalty.
CMMC 2.0 REVISION: What the Cybersecurity Requirement Updates Mean for You Webinar
Webinar Webinar link will be provided after registrationHear the latest changes to CMMC, including the new structure, the self-assessment process, the updated timeline, and more.
MAKE STEADY PROGRESS: CMMC Cybersecurity 15-Part Training Series for Manufacturers
Virtual Training Login will be provided by facilitator15 month series guiding you to maintain DoD contracts by meeting cybersecurity requirements through CMMC and DFARS NIST 800-171 compliance.
Tap into Business Opportunities in Southeast Asia’s Water Market at Singapore International Water Week 2022 Webinar
Webinar Webinar link will be provided after registrationAn overview of the business opportunities in Southeast Asia’s water market and an introduction to Singapore International Water Week 2022
MANUFACTURING PEER GROUPS: IMEC BreakThrough Groups for Operation Management, Senior Leaders and Women in Leadership ***Dates TBD***
Virtual Training Login will be provided by facilitatorAnnouncing a channel for fresh perspectives to solve problems, maximize industry resources, and increase ability to adapt and innovate.
SUPPLY CHAIN SERIES | Supply Chain and Policy: Past, Present and Future Virtual Panel
Webinar Webinar link will be provided after registrationSupply chain disruptions are more common and more disruptive. How can you identify vulnerabilities – and prepare to respond?
EXPOSE NEW CUSTOMERS: Prospecting in a Post-COVID World Workshop
Virtual Training Login will be provided by facilitatorLearn key elements and action steps for your prospecting strategy to identify and connect with manufacturing customers.
ADVANCED MANUFACTURING EXPLAINED: The Intersection of Lean Standard Work and Industry 4.0 Webinar
Webinar Webinar link will be provided after registrationExplore how the innovative approaches of standardized work & Industry 4.0 work together to achieve operational excellence in manufacturing.
START TO FINISH: Value Stream Mapping as a Tool for Process Improvement Webinar
Webinar Webinar link will be provided after registrationDiscover how Value Stream Mapping can create a visual depiction of your processes – and identify areas for short- and long-term improvement.
LEADING THROUGH CHANGE: Creating a Strategic Roadmap for Successful Change Management Webinar
Webinar Webinar link will be provided after registrationLearn how a change management framework can help you effectively support your team and develop your strategy to overcome challenges.
GROW YOUR BUSINESS: Creating a Strong Digital Presence to Win Customers Webinar
Webinar Webinar link will be provided after registrationSmall and mid-sized manufacturers need a strong digital marketing presence to reach customers & to increase awareness of products/services.
MAKE STEADY PROGRESS: CMMC Cybersecurity 15-Part Training Series for Manufacturers
Virtual Training Login will be provided by facilitator15 month series guiding you to maintain DoD contracts by meeting cybersecurity requirements through CMMC and DFARS NIST 800-171 compliance.
DON’T BE A VICTIM: 3 Urgent Steps for Manufacturers to Increase Security Webinar
Webinar Webinar link will be provided after registrationDon’t be the next victim! Learn from the cyber mistakes of other manufacturers and hear 3 steps you can take this month for better security.
FOCUS ON QUALITY: Exploring the Benefits and Structure of an ISO 9001 Quality Management System Webinar
Webinar Webinar link will be provided after registrationLearn how the ISO 9001 certification and quality management system can help your company boost profits & augment efficiency.
SPARK SALES GROWTH: Do-It-With-You Digital Sales and eCommerce Training Program
Virtual Training Login will be provided by facilitatorAnnouncing an 8-week series with small group training and 1-on-1 working sessions to strengthen digital sales and your eCommerce presence.
CONNECT THE DOTS: Aligning your Strategy to your Financial Resources Webinar
Webinar Webinar link will be provided after registrationTranslating your strategic plan into a financial business plan is critical to know you have the financial resources to execute your strategy.
IMPROVE YOUR SECURITY: Linking Information Security and Quality Management Practices Webinar
Webinar Webinar link will be provided after registrationDiscover how companies can increase protection by integrating an information security standard within your Quality Management System.
SUPPLY CHAIN SERIES | Reimagining the Supply Chain: Creating a More Agile Approach Panel
Virtual Meeting Host will provide login details after registrationSupply chain disruptions are more common and more disruptive. How do you build a resilient supply chain, in this time of globalization?
PREPARE FOR 2022: Economic Outlook for Manufacturing in 2022 Webinar
Webinar Webinar link will be provided after registrationNow is the time for manufacturers to get educated on potential economic volatility in the US and global markets, and prepare to respond.