Miles for Manufacturing 5K Celebrates 10-Year Anniversary

The Miles for Manufacturing 5K (M4M), AMT’s annual community fundraising event, is celebrating 10 years at IMTS. Originating from a conversation among exhibitors during IMTS 2012, the 5K has grown in its significance, continuing to raise funds for manufacturing education and inspire future leaders in the industry and beyond. This year, M4M registration and packet pickup begins at 6:15 a.m. on Wednesday, Sept. 11^th at DuSable Harbor, ending at 6:45 a.m. that same day. The 5K and one mile walk/run begins at 7 a.m.

A Humble Beginning

The idea for Miles for Manufacturing (M4M) sprang to life during IMTS 2012, where a group of exhibitors grabbed a beer together and decided to go for a morning run. After 25 runners showed, Mike DiFranco of GIE Media proposed organizing a run to benefit the community. Peter Eelman, the longstanding director of IMTS, embraced the idea, leading to the inaugural M4M at IMTS 2014.

Evolution Through the Years

Since 2014, M4M has not only been a fixture at IMTS, but has also expanded to other AMT meetings, such as The MFG Meeting and MTForecast. It even adapted to the challenges of 2020 by going virtual, enabling participants worldwide to join in support of the cause. In 2024, M4M is celebrating its 14th event.

Making Every Dollar Count

From the outset, Peter Eelman and Mike DiFranco ensured that the costs of organizing the 5K, including essentials like shirts, bibs and city permits, were covered entirely by IMTS. This means that every dollar raised through sponsorships and individual runner/walker registrations goes directly to educational initiatives in manufacturing and design. Over the past decade, not a single dollar of funds raised has been diverted to cover hard costs, ensuring maximum impact for the community.

Impacting Education and Beyond

The funds raised through M4M are directed toward educational programs that encourage young people to pursue careers in manufacturing and design. Beneficiaries range from technical schools to robotics clubs and STEM programs in Chicago Public Schools, fostering a new generation of innovators and problem-solvers within the industry.

Giving Back

To date, M4M has raised over $192,000 for educational initiatives. With expectations to add between $30,000 to $40,000 at IMTS 2024, organizers are poised to surpass $225,000 by the event's 10-year anniversary. This growth underscores the dedication of participants and sponsors towards supporting educational opportunities in manufacturing.

Join Us in Making a Difference

Whether you're a seasoned runner, a team eager to support community initiatives or an individual looking to contribute, your participation matters. Join us in celebrating this legacy of giving back, one stride at a time.