The Rockford Aerospace Network, an alliance of businesses that includes airline suppliers, service providers and ground handlers seeking to encourage economic development and job creation around Chicago Rockford International Airport, has been formed.

Some 140 aviation-related businesses have joined the network which was officially established earlier this week by Bill Roop, chairman of the regional Rockford Area Economic Development Council (RAEDC).

Jeff Kaney, president of the Chicago-based Kaney Group, was named chair of the network and stated: "Our goal is to dramatically increase the number of high-paying jobs in the aerospace sector. We can do this because the Rockford Region is very good at aerospace.  We have the critical mass of companies and infrastructure they need," he said.

The group will jointly seek out new opportunities; share leads and tips on how to increase aerospace business opportunities and efficiencies and promote the airport as an attrative business destination.

In order to be a member of the Rockford Aerospace Network, a company must be an investor in the RAEDC. To join, contact the RAEDC's Director of Investor Relations Mary Cacioppi at 815 969 4259 or mcacioppi@rockfordil.com