Derek Sherman

Background

About Derek Sherman

I build high-impact manufacturing networks where others see disconnected parts. As a founding principal of Synchronist Lab and architect behind three successful industrial clusters—in Rockford, Peoria, and South Cook County—I’ve helped hundreds of small and mid-sized manufacturers (SMEs) unlock new sales, strategic partnerships, and sustainable growth. Each network was launched under different economic pressures, including during the volatility of COVID, proving that collaboration beats crisis. I developed and field-tested a powerful, bottoms-up cluster development strategy that blends supply chain intelligence, trade development, and executive matchmaking. This approach has delivered measurable results: • 375+ manufacturers mobilized in Rockford, IL • 38 companies unified under a Peoria cluster in 15 months • 57 firms in South Cook County engaging 60+ new business prospects My work doesn’t stop at connection—it’s about building trust-based ecosystems that drive competitiveness, recapture lost sales, and expand access to new markets. Whether it's reshoring opportunities, technical training, or operational strategy, I help manufacturers move from insight to action. If you're working to grow industry collaboration, strengthen supply chains, or solve a problem no one else can, let's talk.