February 9, 2026

Forest City Gear, an industry-leading manufacturer of fine- and medium-pitch custom gears, is thrilled to announce that Kika Young, president and shareholder, has joined the Greater Rockford Chamber of Commerce (GRCC) board of directors. In addition to her board role, Young will contribute her expertise as a member of both the GRCC’s Talent Committee and the Rockford Area Aerospace Network (RAAN).

“I’m honored to serve on the board of the Greater Rockford Chamber of Commerce and contribute through both the Rockford Area Aerospace Network and the Talent Committee,” says Kika Young, President of Forest City Gear. “As a manufacturer, I see every day how critical collaboration is between industry, education, and community partners to strengthen our workforce, support local businesses, and position the Stateline as a competitive, thriving economic hub.”

Young brings her years of manufacturing leadership experience to the GRCC, including deep expertise in precision gear manufacturing and aerospace supply chains. As president of Forest City Gear, she has championed the company’s continued legacy for investment in workforce development, advancing manufacturing, and regional economic growth.

“As the region’s largest most influential network of business owners, executives, and professionals, the Greater Rockford Chamber of Commerce relies heavily on the insights and expertise of our board members,” says Angela Kay Larson, CEO of the GRCC. “Our organization will benefit greatly from having Kika’s perspective as president of a family-owned business, manufacturing leader, and aerospace expert.”

Earlier in her career at Forest City Gear, Young served 10 years in various human resources leadership roles. This experience, in combination with Forest City Gear’s important position in the Rockford area’s aerospace community, gives Young unique insight to strengthen the region’s manufacturing workforce pipeline.

“As part of her board commitment, Kika serves on our RAAN committee and Talent Committee. Her knowledge in both these areas will help inform our region’s work in strengthening our aerospace cluster and growing the availability of skilled workers,” Larson adds.

The Forest City Gear family is immensely proud to support Young’s continued leadership and service within the Rockford region and congratulates her on this next step with the GRCC.