RLC hosts first SIMA Fest to Celebrate Local Makers and Manufacturers

MT. VERNON, Ill. (June 9, 2025) — Rend Lake College hosted its inaugural SIMA Fest, bringing together the heart of our community in a celebration of local creativity.

SIMA Fest’s vendor lineup was nothing short of inspiring, showcasing the incredible craftsmanship and entrepreneurial spirit of local community members. Visitors had the chance to shop for a variety of handmade or locally sourced items, all while supporting small businesses and artisans.

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Two Tough Cookies booth

Barefoot Beads booth

KAAST 22 booth

Fearless Beauty booth

Deaconess Auxiliary's New & Used Goods booth

Uncle Randy's Sweets & More booth

The event highlighted exciting career opportunities in the manufacturing and industrial fields. Three prominent manufacturers, Aisin, Intermountain Electronics, and Walgreens, offered invaluable insights into the career paths they provide. It was a chance to see how local businesses and industries are thriving and what opportunities are available right here in our area.

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Aisin booth

intermountain Electronics booth

Walgreens booth

One of the highlights of SIMA Fest was the chocolate tours hosted by RLC’s newly opened chocolate production facility, Confection Connection. The tours included a live demonstration of chocolate being made from start to finish, and attendees could purchase an incredible variety of delicious chocolates throughout the event.

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RLC's Chef Jeff Fairbanks working the chocolate enrober.

Confection Connection producing delicious chocolate.

Interested in more events like SIMA Fest? Visit rlc.edu/community-corporate-education to see upcoming events!