The Digital Revolution: How Joliet Manufacturing Companies Are Transforming Operations Through Advanced IT Modernization in 2025
The manufacturing sector in Joliet, Illinois, is experiencing an unprecedented digital transformation as companies race to modernize their IT infrastructure and embrace Industry 4.0 technologies. Industry 4.0 technologies, such as automation, artificial intelligence, the Internet of Things and edge computing, are reshaping the manufacturing landscape. Local manufacturers are discovering that strategic IT modernization isn’t just about staying competitive—it’s about survival in an increasingly connected and data-driven industrial environment.
The Urgent Need for IT Modernization in Manufacturing
Manufacturing companies today face mounting pressure to modernize their technology infrastructure. According to the X-Force Threat Intelligence Index 2024 from IBM, manufacturing is the most targeted sector for data breaches. In fact, among the 10 industries most often attacked, 25.7% of attempted breaches were aimed at manufacturers. It’s the third year in a row that the industry has had the dubious distinction of being the most targeted by cyberthreat actors. This reality makes robust IT modernization not just beneficial, but essential for operational continuity.
A 2025 Deloitte survey of 600 manufacturing executives found that the majority (80%) plan to invest 20% or more of their improvement budgets in smart manufacturing initiatives, with a focus on foundational tools and technologies. This significant investment demonstrates the industry’s commitment to digital transformation and the recognition that modern IT infrastructure is critical for future success.
Key Technologies Driving Manufacturing Transformation
Joliet manufacturers are embracing several cutting-edge technologies to modernize their operations. According to Cisco, connected factories see a 21% increase in operational efficiency—so there’s no doubt why 46% plan to use OT data to improve quality, while 43% will optimize their processes. The convergence of Information Technology (IT) and Operational Technology (OT) is creating new opportunities for efficiency gains and process optimization.
In 2025, one of the hottest trends in IT is cloud computing, and it’s making waves in how manufacturers handle their tech needs. Basically, it’s like a magic toolbox offering flexibility, scalability, and cost savings. By tapping into cloud services, manufacturers can easily adjust their computing resources to match the ebb and flow of demand, making their operations more responsive to market conditions.
Artificial Intelligence and machine learning are also playing crucial roles. Manufacturers are continuing to turn to AI to modernize their operations. When asked how they’re implementing AI, manufacturing leaders used it most frequently to improve production efficiency, quality control, data sharing, and transparency.
The Role of Managed IT Services in Manufacturing Modernization
For many Joliet manufacturing companies, partnering with experienced managed IT service providers has become essential for successful modernization. Companies like CTS Computers, which has been serving the Illinois manufacturing sector since 1991, understand the unique challenges facing industrial organizations. Since 1991, CTS Computers has been a leading provider of IT support and consulting, focusing on small and medium sized businesses in central Illinois and Indiana. We have helped hundreds of businesses increase productivity and profitability by making IT a streamlined part of operations. We equip our clients with customized technology solutions for greater operational value and to reduce risk.
The expertise that professional it services joliet providers offer is particularly valuable when it comes to implementing complex modernization projects. These services include everything from cybersecurity implementation to cloud migration, ensuring that manufacturing companies can focus on their core operations while their IT infrastructure is professionally managed and secured.
Cybersecurity: A Critical Component of IT Modernization
As companies merge their OT systems (which traditionally haven’t been connected to the internet) with IT systems (which are), they create a whole new vector for threat actors to exploit. This convergence makes cybersecurity a paramount concern for manufacturing companies undergoing IT modernization.
Manufacturers must invest in robust cybersecurity frameworks that safeguard both IT and OT environments to protect operations. Modern cybersecurity strategies include network segmentation, zero-trust architectures, real-time threat detection, and comprehensive employee training programs to recognize and respond to cyber threats.
Data Management and Analytics Transformation
In 2025, manufacturers will increase their focus on how to collect, store, protect and analyze their data. Modern data management platforms are becoming essential in the industry, offering tools to integrate data from disparate sources and provide actionable insights. This data-driven approach enables manufacturers to make informed decisions, optimize processes, and predict maintenance needs before equipment failures occur.
As part of their modernization efforts, 75% of companies surveyed embrace a data-first strategy to gain visibility into how their processes are actually running and performing; smart manufacturers use these data-driven insights to make key decisions quickly.
The Continuous Transformation Approach
Rather than implementing massive, disruptive overhauls, successful Joliet manufacturers are adopting a continuous transformation approach. Manufacturers are shifting from one-time overhauls to a mindset of continuous improvement, enabling them to remain competitive in dynamic environments. This strategy allows companies to implement targeted improvements that can be validated quickly while managing risk effectively.
By prioritizing small, manageable changes that collectively drive significant impact, manufacturers can build resilience and better position themselves for success in 2025 and beyond.
Looking Ahead: The Future of Manufacturing IT
The modernization of manufacturing factories is not just a trend but a critical necessity for staying competitive in today’s market. Manufacturers can achieve significant gains in efficiency, security, and flexibility by investing in networking, cybersecurity, composable architectures, and future-ready technologies.
For Joliet manufacturing companies, the path forward is clear: embrace IT modernization through strategic partnerships with experienced managed service providers, implement robust cybersecurity measures, and adopt a continuous improvement mindset. Those who act now will be best positioned to thrive in the increasingly digital manufacturing landscape of 2025 and beyond.
The transformation is already underway, and the companies that invest in comprehensive IT modernization today will be the industry leaders of tomorrow. With the right technology partners and a commitment to continuous improvement, Joliet manufacturers are well-positioned to lead the next industrial revolution.