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Made in America: A Blueprint for Creating Jobs

From ABCNews.go.com: In Bozeman, Mont., Anders Lewendal is hard at work building a home he hopes will be a blueprint for creating jobs in America. Lewendal, an economist turned builder, is constructing a house made entirely from U.S.-made products. Everything from the nails, screws and bolts, to the steel, staples and bathtub is made in the United States.  Read More …

 

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Meet IMA’s Government Affairs Team:

The American Society of Association Executives has honored IMA’s Government Affairs Team for its innovative and effective government relations programs. IMA’s multi-member government affairs team brings nearly a century of cumulative experience advocating solely for Illinois manufacturers. They are widely respected by the state’s business and labor organizations for their efforts in working with organizations and elected officials.

 

Mark Denzler, Vice President & COO

From 2003-2006, Mark oversaw government affairs in Illinois for State Farm Insurance, a fortune 50 company headquartered in Bloomington. He focused on a number of issues including insurance, education, taxes and fees, and auto safety legislation. Prior to joining State Farm, Mark worked at the IMA as director of government affairs from 1999-2003 where he concentrated on tax, environmental and educational issues. For more than 6 years, Mark worked as a legislative analyst for the House Republican Leader. He staffed the education and transportation committees including serving as liaison to Governor Edgar’s Eikenberry Commission on education funding. In addition, Mark worked on a number of elections across Illinois while an employee of the House Republican Campaign Committee. Mark also spent a brief time on the Washington D.C. staff of Congressman Tom Ewing.

 

Jim Nelson, Vice President of External Affairs

Jim Nelson is Vice President of External Affairs for the Illinois Manufacturers’ Association.  He  is responsible for the IMA Education Foundation and the association’s education policy initiatives.  In addition, Jim is responsible for Special Projects for the IMA and coordinates activities for the Small Manufacturers Council and the Young Leaders Council. Previous to joining the IMA in 2003, Jim served as a Legislative Liaison in various Illinois administrative agencies serving three Illinois governors over a 25 year span.  In that role, he helped shape and coordinate policy for Illinois’ Corrections, Riverboat Gambling and Employment Security agencies.  In his spare time, Jim is a licensed NCAA and Illinois High School soccer official, private pilot and home builder.