April 20th Meeting 

US/China Relationship In Manufacturing
 
     David Rydell joined, what was then Bergstrom Manufacturing Co., in 1963 when he graduated from college. Prior to that he had worked at the privately held company when not in school. David's degree was in finance. His first officer position was treasurer in 1966. He became the President in 1986, and the Chairman of the Board in 2005.  Dave received his BA in Finance and Accounting from Augustana College.
     Dave has been a member of Rockford Rotary since December 5, 1985. 
     Dave is very involved in the community and serves on numerous boards in the greater Northern Illinois area. Past and current involvements include, but not limited to:
  • Past Board Chair for Swedish American Hospital and current board member
  • Past Board Chair for Rockford University and current board member 
  • Past Board Chair for the Center for Sight and Hearing 
  • U.S Bank current board member 
  • Rockford Rescue Mission Steering Committee
  • Transform Rockford Advisory Board
  • Salvation Army Advisory Board
  • United Way of Rock River Valley, Chaired 2005 campaign
  • Rockford YMCA
  • Lutheran Social Services of Illinois 
  • Midway Village and Museum

     As indicated by the topic, Dave will discuss the US and China relationship in Manufacturing.  Such topics as the effect of China's no-fault policy with regards to closing down facilities at the slightest outbreak of COVID.  This has greatly disrupted the supply chain and resulted in a shortage of things like microchips and other parts that are essential to manufacturing in the United States.  He will also discuss how Bergstrom has worked around these shortages and managed to keep from shutting down their facilities.

     This will be an interesting and informative program and one you will want to invite a guest or prospective member to jopin us in person at Memorial Hall or via Zoom.  Elise Cadigan will introduce our presenter and act as Rotary Host.