Industry Iowa

Join host Steve Wilson and sit down with Kyle Uebelhor, partner at the Alexander Group's Chicago office, to explore how sales compensation can be a powerful lever for growth. Kyle shares insights on:✅ Aligning sales compensation with business goals✅ Avoiding common mistakes in sales plans✅ Navigating the rise of AI in sales✅ Creating purpose-driven compensation strategiesWhether you're a sales leader or business executive, this conversation is packed with actionable takeaways.And don't miss the chance to hear Kyle live at the Ivy College of Business Innovation Sales Summit on April 2nd! Register now at www.ivybusiness.iastate.edu.

In this episode of Industry Iowa, host Steve Wilson welcomes sales expert Liz Heiman to discuss strategies for building high-performing sales teams. As a featured speaker at the upcoming Ivy College of Business Innovation Sales Summit, Liz shares insights on sales compensation, effective team management, and the importance of aligning sales strategies with company values.Key topics include:✅ How sales compensation impacts team performance✅ The role of mindset and values in attracting top sales talent✅ Common pitfalls in sales forecasting and how to avoid them✅ Coaching strategies that drive long-term sales success✅ Adapting to the evolving sales landscapeTune in to gain practical insights on optimizing your sales organization and ensuring your team's success!Connect with Liz: linkedin.com/in/lizheiman; www.reagardingsales.com

Are young workers prepared for the toll of physically demanding careers?In this powerful episode, we sit down with Dr. Olivia Johnson, an Air Force veteran, former police officer, and founder of the Blue Wall Institute, to discuss the hidden health risks in physically demanding jobs like construction and law enforcement. Dr. Johnson shares critical insights on:The long-term impact of lifestyle choices on career sustainabilityWhy education on health risks should start in middle schoolHow employers can support workers' mental and physical well-beingThe importance of mentorship, relationships, and communication in preventing burnoutWhether you're in the trades, leading a workforce, or guiding the next generation, this conversation is a must-listen!Listen now and take the first step toward a healthier, more sustainable career!

In this dynamic episode of the Industry Iowa Podcast, host Steve Wilson sits down with Anne Bonney, a powerhouse in leadership and change management, to dive into what makes a leader truly influential. Anne shares that an influential leader isn't just about titles or power—it's about building trust and inspiring others to jump on board, even when the path ahead is uncomfortable. Anne opens up about her journey into the world of discomfort, a theme that shapes her popular podcast, Dancing in the Discomfort Zone. With a signature blend of humor and insight, she talks about interviewing guests who've faced some of life's toughest challenges—like overcoming people-pleasing, battling burnout, escaping human trafficking, and rebuilding life after incarceration. Her goal? To help listeners become more comfortable with the uncomfortable, breaking down resistance and opening up new possibilities. Anne also highlights her bestselling books, Get Over It and Get Them Over It, packed with tips on embracing change and guiding teams through it. Known for her high-energy, interactive keynotes, she teases some fun surprises for her upcoming session at the Iowa Lean Consortium Annual Conference, including giveaways that promise to make her talks more engaging than ever. This conversation is not just an interview; it's a call to action for leaders and listeners alike to dance boldly in their own discomfort zones. Don't miss this episode packed with insights, laughs, and a challenge to lead with courage. Get tickets to see Anne live in Iowa on October 24th!

Welcome to "Industry Iowa," the podcast that delves into innovative ways to enhance the quality of life in Iowa by empowering businesses and their communities. Hosted by Steve Wilson, each episode brings together industry experts to explore strategies that drive success and improve team dynamics.  In this episode, Steve is joined by some of his CIRAS colleagues: Marketing Manager Gayle Mastbergen, and Event Managers Jennifer Garcia, and Mica Paul to unpack the transformative power of the "Working Genius" model. Developed by Patrick Lencioni, the Working Genius assessment focuses on productivity by identifying six key geniuses: Wonder, Invention, Discernment, Galvanizing, Enablement, and Tenacity. These geniuses help individuals and teams understand their optimal work styles and collaborate more effectively.  Listen as Gayle, Jennifer, and Mica share how the Working Genius model has revolutionized their professional lives. Gayle discusses its impact on team dynamics and meeting efficiency, while Mica highlights how it helps design productive meeting schedules. Steve reflects on how the model has liberated him to focus on tasks that energize him, enhancing his productivity and satisfaction.  The conversation extends to practical applications, such as structured team meetings and leveraging diverse strengths to boost team dynamics. Learn about the five key project phases—Wonder, Invention, Discernment, Galvanizing, Enablement, and Tenacity—and how identifying potential falter points can streamline project management.  Discover strategies for leveraging team talents, creating balanced project development, and making informed hiring decisions to cover skill gaps. The episode underscores how understanding individual "working genius" types can enhance team dynamics, conflict resolution, and workplace morale, ultimately leading to higher productivity and job satisfaction.  Join us on "Industry Iowa" to explore how the Working Genius model can transform your career and organization by fostering a healthier, more productive work environment. Whether you're a leader looking to enhance your team's effectiveness or an individual seeking to understand your work-related strengths, this episode offers invaluable insights and practical tips.  Tune in to "Industry Iowa" and start your journey toward a more fulfilling and productive professional life!  To learn more about how Working Genius can help your organization, contact Steve Wilson at wilson@iastate.edu today!

Industry Insights with Mike Ralston of the Iowa Association of Business and Industry: Shaping the Future of Iowa Manufacturing In the latest episode of the Industry Iowa Podcast, we engage in an enlightening conversation with Mike Ralston, Executive Director of the Iowa Association of Business and Industry (ABI). Mike provides an in-depth look at ABI's primary goals and the critical issues currently facing Iowa manufacturers. He highlights the economic impact of the manufacturing sector, sharing compelling success stories of growth and innovation driven by ABI's involvement. Discover the initiatives supporting workforce development and how ABI collaborates with educational institutions to equip the future workforce with essential skills. Mike also discusses the adaptation of Iowa manufacturers to Industry 4.0 technologies and ABI's role in fostering innovation. Listeners will gain insights into ABI's legislative priorities, advocacy efforts, and strategies for addressing sustainability and reducing environmental impact. Mike delves into ABI's community partnerships aimed at boosting economic development and support for small and medium-sized enterprises (SMEs). Looking ahead, he shares trends anticipated in the manufacturing industry over the next decade and how ABI prepares its members to navigate these future challenges and opportunities. Learn about the specific services ABI offers, the benefits of membership, and how success is measured through impactful metrics. Don't miss this episode for a comprehensive overview of how ABI shapes the future of Iowa's manufacturing sector. Find your best connection to CIRAS: https://www.ciras.iastate.edu/staff-directory/

In this enlightening episode, we sit down with Nick Turner, the dynamic force behind TWI Leadership Solutions, to delve into the world of Training Within Industry (TWI). Whether you're familiar with TWI or hearing about it for the first time, this conversation will give you a comprehensive understanding of its profound impact on workforce development. Episode Highlights: What is TWI? Nick breaks down the core components of TWI, explaining its foundational principles and how it differs from other training methodologies. A Rich History: Discover the origins of TWI during World War II and how it has evolved over the decades to become a cornerstone in various industries worldwide. Tangible Benefits: Learn about the significant advantages TWI offers organizations, from boosting productivity and quality to enhancing employee engagement and reducing turnover. Implementation Strategies: Nick shares practical tips and strategies for successfully implementing TWI in your organization, regardless of its size or industry. Join us for a thought-provoking discussion that will equip you with valuable insights and actionable strategies to leverage TWI for your organization's success. Whether you're a seasoned professional or a curious newcomer, this episode is packed with information and inspiration. Tune in and get ready to revolutionize your approach to workforce training with the expert guidance of Nick Turner!

Dive deep into the ever-changing landscape of Iowa workforce policy and legal updates with Pam Lane, Human Capital and Workforce Strategy project manager from CIRAS! Uncover the latest trends, including the evolution of leave policies, such as the rise of unlimited leave and coverage for domestic violence situations. Learn about federal regulations affecting child labor laws and dissect a recent Supreme Court decision on individual liability for the Civil Rights Act. Plus, explores the critical importance of pay transparency in fostering diversity and ensuring fair compensation practices. Don't miss this opportunity to gain valuable insights and navigate these changes effectively. Tune in now for a glimpse into the future of work! Find your best introduction to CIRAS: https://www.ciras.iastate.edu/staff-directory/

Ready to revolutionize your manufacturing process? Join us for an electrifying episode where Steve Wilson from CIRAS takes the helm in a dynamic conversation with Eric D. Higgins of CIRAS and George Brancato of Fanuc America. Together, they peel back the layers of automation, exploring the latest trends and tackling the challenges manufacturers face. Dive deep into understanding client needs, streamlining automation integration, and conquering ROI concerns. Discover invaluable resources, from technical training to integrator support, and uncover the secrets to optimizing manufacturing efficiency. Don't miss this action-packed episode filled with expert insights and actionable advice! Tune in now and embark on your journey to manufacturing excellence. Let's unlock the future together! Find your best connection to CIRAS: https://www.ciras.iastate.edu/staff-directory/

Get ready for an exhilarating ride into the heart of business innovation and operational excellence! In this explosive episode of Industry Iowa, our host Steve Wilson sits down with the dynamic Joseph Paris. In a rollercoaster of revelations, Paris breaks down operational excellence, from its definition as an organization's state of readiness to its evolution from a tools-focused approach to a soft skills-driven strategy. Dive deep into process improvement and design thinking, where Paris unravels the intuitive and fascinating use of game boards to solve complex problems. Imagine standing in front of a game board instead of a conference table – a game-changing perspective that eliminates miscommunication and fosters collective decision-making. But the excitement doesn't stop there! Join us as we explore the practical application of design thinking to improve organizations, involving frontline workers and compressing time for a competitive advantage. Paris spills the beans on successful workshops, creating vendor scorecards, and the evolution of due diligence in M&A deals – all red teaming and operational excellence! Ready to elevate your understanding of operational excellence? Tune in now and discover the power of design thinking in creating a safe space for open and honest communication, building trust, and fostering shared ownership. Don't miss out on this episode – your journey to operational excellence starts here!

Join us on the Industry Iowa Podcast for an enlightening conversation with Tom Lawless, a distinguished leader with over 40 years of operations and change management experience. Currently serving as the President of Lean Training and Consulting, Tom is also an Adjunct Professor at Nebraska Methodist College and a Certified Lean Six Sigma Master Black Belt. In this episode, we delve into the dynamic landscape of continuous improvement, exploring the industry's current state, emerging trends, and the critical role of leadership in deploying successful initiatives. Tom Lawless brings a wealth of knowledge gained from consulting within various industries, offering unique perspectives on the intricacies of driving operational excellence. Our discussion delves into the essence of Lean Six Sigma methodologies, shedding light on their application and impact. We also focus on the vital aspect of leadership, as Tom shares invaluable insights into how effective leadership is paramount in ensuring the success of continuous improvement initiatives. Whether you're a seasoned professional or just starting to explore the world of continuous improvement, this episode provides a deep dive into the strategies, challenges, and transformative power of Lean Six Sigma. Don't miss out on the opportunity to gain insights from Tom Lawless's extensive experience and learn how leadership plays a pivotal role in shaping the continuous improvement landscape. Tune in for a thought-provoking conversation that promises to inspire and inform.

Dive into a world of innovation and corporate empowerment with Raj Agnihotri, Professor, Mary Warner Fellow, and Director of Ivy Sales Forum. On the latest episode of the Industry Iowa Podcast, we explore the visionary Ivy College of Business and the groundbreaking Ivy Custom Education initiative. Discover how Ivy Custom Education is revolutionizing executive education, bridging the gap between high-potential employees and top-notch faculty expertise. Tailored programs designed specifically for your company's needs create a personalized learning journey that unlocks unparalleled growth and success. Join us for a brief yet impactful exploration of the intersection between academia and industry. Don't miss out on the insights that can transform your approach to corporate education. Subscribe now to Industry Iowa Podcast for a dose of inspiration and innovation. #IndustryIowaPodcast #CorporateEmpowerment #ExecutiveEducationTransformation

Prepare for an eye-opening episode of the "Industry Iowa" podcast, presented by CIRAS, as host Steven Wilson sits down with the insightful author, Katie Anderson. In this engaging conversation, they explore the dynamic world of leadership and learning, touching upon essential topics shaping the future of industries in Iowa and beyond.   Discover what inspired Katie Anderson to pen her thought-provoking book, "Learning to Lead, Leading to Learn," and how her journey can inspire leaders of all levels. Katie will be a keynote speaker at the October 26th Iowa Lean Consortium Annual Conference.  Learn more and register: https://events.blackthorn.io/en/6g82hT47/ilc-annual-conference-2023-4a4w6gSN7y/overview

Tune in to the latest episode of the Industry Iowa Podcast as we dive into engineering career development with an industry expert! Get ready to be inspired and informed as we sit down with Kellie Olson, the passionate Director of Engineering Career Services at Iowa State. Hosted by Steven Wilson, this episode is a goldmine of insights for both students and employers looking to navigate the engineering job landscape effectively. We leave no stone unturned, discussing critical questions such as: What's the mission of the Iowa State College of Engineering Career Services Program? Kellie provides an exclusive overview, giving you an inside look at how this program is shaping the future of engineering professionals. How can employers benefit? Discover the invaluable services offered by the program to employers, guiding them toward the best-fit talent. And here's the kicker – most of these services are entirely FREE! What trends are driving student recruitment? Kellie breaks down the latest insights, giving you a competitive edge in your hiring strategy. Success stories, anyone? Get ready for inspiring tales of students who've reaped the rewards of the Career Services Program and soared to incredible heights in their careers.  How can companies enhance brand recognition? Learn effective strategies to make your company a magnet for Iowa State's top engineering talent. Want to hire students or get involved? What's the plan? Kellie guides you through the steps to forge strong partnerships with this program.   From insightful tips to real-world success stories, this episode is packed with actionable advice. Whether you're an engineering student eager to kickstart your career or an employer seeking top-tier talent, you won't want to miss this conversation. Join us on the Industry Iowa Podcast to unlock the doors to engineering excellence!  

Join us in this episode as our guest, CIRAS Growth Team Project Manager Paul Gormley, helps us demystify the world of digital marketing and shed light on its fundamental aspects. We start by answering the question, "What is digital marketing anyway?" We explore the definition of digital marketing, its purpose, and how it differs from traditional marketing methods. Discover the vast array of opportunities and possibilities that digital marketing presents in reaching and engaging today's digitally savvy consumers. For more information, contact your local strategic advisor

Brion Hurley, Iowa native, author, Lean and Six Sigma Instructor, and founder of Business Performance Improvement, starts off our discussion by challenging Lean and Six Sigma professionals to share their knowledge and expertise with non-profit organizations. This practice not only benefits the non-profit agency, but helps further develop the practitioner, brings additional experiences back into the for-profit business, and helps that business fulfill its mission of having an impact on the communities in which they are located. Brion is also very interested in helping organizations use Lean and Six Sigma to reduce their environmental impact, improve their communities and engage their employees to drive greater financial and mission results. You can find out more about his work by going to www.brionhurley.com and www.biz-pi.com. We touch on many other CI-related topics, so be sure to catch the full episode.

In this episode, Kyle Roed, VP of Global Human Resources for CPM Holdings and founder of Disrupt HR and Rebel Human Resources podcast, discusses his passion for studying human behavior and how it applies to the HR field. Kyle emphasizes that people are at the heart of what makes organizations thrive and discusses strategies for managing disruptions and driving innovation. He also provides insights on better practices for hiring, onboarding, performance management, and team collaboration. Whether you're a sales professional or an HR leader, this episode provides valuable insights into how HR can enable sales success and drive business results. Don't miss Kyle's upcoming speaking engagement at the Ivy Sales Innovation Summit on May 17th, focused on building sales talent and maximizing technology. Registration closes May 9th; save your seat today! https://www.ivybusiness.iastate.edu/event/ivy-sales-innovation-summit/

Zero waste is a comprehensive and holistic approach to waste reduction that strives to minimize the amount of materials sent to landfills or incinerators by prioritizing waste prevention, reduction, reuse, recycling, and composting. Russ O'Rourke, the Environmental Health and Safety Director for Barilla America in Ames, IA, and a Board Member with the Iowa Sustainable Business Forum, is joining us today to discuss the ISBF's work in connecting Iowa businesses to improve their sustainable practices and Barilla's pursuit of zero waste. The ISBF is a member-driven industry association established in 2014 that promotes continuous improvement in business practices that benefit people, the planet, and profits.

Pam Lane, CIRAS leader for Human Capital and Workforce Strategy, joins us for this episode of Industry Iowa, where we talk about what's down the road for 2023 as it pertains to human resources and workforce. 1. Employees will continue to be concerned with emotional and financial well-being 2. Employees will more frequently have caregiving responsibilities. 3. Professional development remains a top priority for employees. 4. Diversity and a source of purpose are what employees want to see in the employer. 5. Hybrid work schedules will remain important to potential and current employees. 6. Pay transparency is a growing issue. Drawing upon her expertise and many years of experience, Pam addresses and provides answers to the challenges that individuals and organizations are facing. If you are interested in talking with Pam about "all things HR", you can reach her at 515.567.0687 or pamelal@iastate.edu.

Reports indicate that Iowa's population has seen very little growth over the past 50 years and there is little to indicate that this will change any time in the near future. We also are seeing more people leaving the workforce then entering it. So, where are Iowa businesses going to get the much-needed workforce? Iowa Prison Industries (IPI), the work arm of the Iowa Department of Corrections, is one possible solution. Join me and my guest Tammy Nielsen, Program Manager of their Prison Industries Enhancement (PIE) program as we discuss how to engage with IPI, how to make the most of the program, what are the real benefits of partnering with IPI, and much, much more.

Interested in learning more about the current state of the labor market and strategies on how to address it from an industry expert? Join host Steve with Amy Cell of Amy Cell Talent. We hit on the importance of culture in the job market, retention, engagement as it relates to the job market, keys to success in developing and retaining your workforce, and how to investigate different sectors of your community for possible employees. Amy doesn't provide a silver bullet, but she does provide insight into the current state of the job market across the country, based on her 30-plus years of experience. If you are interested in working with Amy, contact the CIRAS workforce team today! Contact Us

"Chaos can come in many forms and at various times, and for that very reason, we need leadership at all levels throughout an organization, which means that everybody must have some level of competence in leading through it".- Jake Wood For two decades, Jake Wood's life has been defined by the world's most high-stakes situations. He played BigTen college football, fought in Iraq and Afghanistan, and has since built the world's fastest-growing disaster response organization - Team Rubicon. His riveting stories and hard-earned lessons bring audiences to the edge of their seats. Jake will be a keynote speaker at this year's Iowa Lean Consortium Conference on October 25th. Registrations are now open. In this episode of Industry Iowa, Jake breaks down the acronym VUCA (Volatility, Uncertainty, Complexity, Ambiguity) and shares his experience around "Conquering Chaos." First used by the military, the term VUCA is commonly used to reflect the turbulent and unpredictable forces of change that could affect organizations. Jake adds, "if you understand which one you are facing and how they evolve from one to the other, then you're going to be better positioned to implement the right strategies and tactics to conquer it."

If you've been considering engaging ISU Engineering students for Capstone Projects, now is the time to reach out to Mayra Ramirez. What is a Capstone Project, you ask? In short, Capstone Projects help companies access people and technology. Within the College of Engineering, each student must take a formal capstone course during their senior year in which they apply their educational experience to a real-world project. Here are just a few of the benefits you'll receive by hosting a capstone project: • Apply a high level of engineering resources to a topic of interest, such as investigating an engineering problem, redesigning an existing product or process, or exploring a new product concept or technology platform. • Engage students as potential future employees. • Use capstone projects to “seed” innovation projects within the company. Contact Mayra Ramirez at ramirezm@iastate.edu or 515-520-3101.

On this episode of the Industry Iowa Podcast, musician, comedian, innovative entrepreneur, and Hall of Fame Speaker Mike Rayburn joins us to talk about his upcoming keynote at the October 25th Iowa Lean Consortium Annual Conference and challenges us with the simple but powerful question of "what if"? Mike reminds us that every major accomplishment started, in one way or another, with a bold "what if" question. Mike uses both his musical talents (has played Carnegie Hall multiple times) and comedy to inspire innovative thinking and doing. Join us at the ILC Conference, where Mike will show participants and the companies they work for how to discover their "what if's" and make them happen. Be sure to stay until the end, when Mike treats us to some amazing guitar playing.

On this episode of Industry Iowa, my guest Brian Muff, helps us uncover another hidden jewel in the state of Iowa. For over 10 years as a CIRAS Project Manager and Technology Assistance Program Contract Research Lead, Brian has been managing collaborative research projects between Iowa companies and faculty which have resulted in several millions of dollars of impact. Examples of past projects include engineering product design/testing, animal feeding trials, food ingredient formulation and shelf-life studies, human sensory trials, software design, statistical analysis and survey design, marketing and accounting assistance, or materials analysis and optimization. To seek guidance about making faculty connections or to schedule a no-cost assessment, contact your Regional CIRAS Account Manager or TAP Contract Research lead Brian Muff.

On May 17th the first-ever Ivy College of Business Sales Innovation Summit was held on the campus of Iowa State University. This event was the result of a partnership between the Ivy College of Business and CIRAS, the Center for Industrial Research and Service and born out of a sincere desire by both parties to provide an opportunity for Iowa businesses to learn from and network with each other as well as some of the most accomplished Iowa State faculty in the areas of sales and marketing. By all accounts, the goal was more than exceeded. On this episode of the Industry Iowa Podcast, Dr. Raj Agnihotri, Mary Warner Fellow, and Director of Ivy Sales Forum shares his reflections on the day and takes us deeper into the day's topics of Selling in Crisis and Hiring and Managing Sales Talent.

Steve Wilson and guest Mitch Matthews discuss how we are all salespeople. Mitch shares his zig-zag journey to how he became an entrepreneur, success coach, and podcaster. Learn more about Mitch's philosophy of how the ability to ask powerful questions is the key to being an effective leader and successful salesperson. Listen to Mitch and Steve discuss the power of the question and its impact on all relationships. See Mitch live in Ames at the May 17th Ivy College of Business Sales Innovation Summit co-hosted by CIRAS and the Ivy College of Business. More information and tickets for the Ivy Sales Innovation Summit: https://www.ivybusiness.iastate.edu/event/ivy-sales-innovation-summit/ * Deadline to register is May 12th, 2022. Mitch Matthews, https://mitchmatthews.com/

Every two years the Center for Industrial Research and Service (CIRAS), conducts a needs assessment process to better understand the needs of manufacturers in Iowa. Join me on this episode of the Industry Iowa podcast as Mike O'Donnell, shares some of the highlights of the recently released 2021-2022 report, the value it brings to Iowa manufacturers, and the work that CIRAS is doing to partner with these companies to close the gaps that were identified. To view the report: https://www.ciras.iastate.edu/files/publications/2021-2022_Iowa_Manufacturing_Needs_Assessment_Report.pdf Contact Information: www.ciras.iastate.edu, 1805 Collaboration Place, Suite 2300, Ames, IA 50010

According to the most recent quarterly survey conducted by the Iowa Business Council and reported on in a February 2022 article by the Iowa Capital Dispatch, Iowa faces its worst ever worker shortage. Executive Director Joe Murphy stated, “Companies are at a tipping point with respect to their workforce. They need people more than ever”. In this episode of the Industry Iowa podcast, Brenda Martin, CIRAS Workforce Program Manager, addresses not only the concern, but more importantly the work that CIRAS is doing, along with many of the state's economic developers, to identify and work towards solutions, both short-term and long term. I also encourage you to read “The Iowa Workforce Skirmishes” , an article written by CIRAS Director Ron Cox.

Join host Steve Wilson for this entertaining and educational conversation with Bruce Hansen, V.P., Business Development for the Iowa Area Development Group(IADG). Bruce's primary focus is supporting Iowa's existing industry by identifying company needs and connecting them with the resources needed to foster growth. Since they began in 1985, the IADG has assisted with over 2,250 projects, over $13.2 Billion in investments, over 54,500 new and retained jobs, and 95 Industrial Parks covering over 7,329 acres of industrial land. Tune in and learn how the IADG can help your business and your community prosper, grow, and thrive

Industry Iowa host Steve Wilson sits down with CIRAS Supply Chain Project Manager, Melissa Burant.

Our guest on this episode of the Industry Iowa Podcast is Jill Lippincott of the Iowa Economic Development Authority. Jill has many roles at the IEDA and most recently has been the point person for the Manufacturing 4.0 Technology Investment Grant Program. While our main focus was the grant programs, Jill also shares some exciting news about a new supply chain resource initiative as well as manufacturing trends and what's needed in our educational systems to support the increasingly important role technology is playing in manufacturers across the state. Did you know: There are two grant programs currently available for Iowa Manufacturers 3-75 employees - https://www.iowamfg.com/technology-investment-program/ 76-250 employees - https://www.iowagrants.gov/insideLinkOpps.jsp?documentPk=1634306143520 – Deadline to apply is 12-31-21 Manufacturing accounts for 18% of Iowa's GDP 53% of Iowa's manufacturers are in rural areas of the state

Industry Iowa Host, Steve Wilson sits down with Joseph Paris. Joseph is a recognized thought leader on operational excellence; an international entrepreneur; a prolific writer; and a sought-after strategist, consultant, and speaker with engagements around the world. His book, “State of Readiness” (May 2017) has been well received and endorsed by business leaders from highly respected companies – with operations around the world and across industries – and promises to be a definitive work on the field of Operational Excellence. With over 30 years of experience in international business and operations, he is routinely called upon to offer guidance to C-suite and senior executives and business-operations and -improvement specialists who wish to improve the overall efficiency and effectiveness of their organizations.

Join host Steve Wilson in great conversation with John Foley, one of Keynote Presenters for the upcoming ILC Annual Conference. John Foley is a former Lead Solo Pilot of the Blue Angels, "Top Ten Carrier Pilot," a best-selling author and an expert on high-performance teams. As a keynote speaker, John has inspired over 1,000 organizations to increase trust, elevate execution and build a culture of excellence. No other speaker in the world shares John's life experiences. Through keynote presentations and hands-on workshops, John clearly applies his lifetime of discovery to real-world situations. He has delivered his extraordinary message at over 1,000 events, to over 1 million people worldwide. John's keynotes, workshops, and programs inspire individuals, teams, and organizations to reach and operate at their highest potential. His high-performance framework is vital for leaders reaching for the next level of success, and his Glad to Be Here® Mindset is a fundamental tool for maximizing possibility and achieving goals. John Foley's message goes above and beyond expectations. With engaging stories and electrifying videos of Blue Angel aerobatics, his presentations will give your organization a renewed spirit, purpose and energy. John's events inspire, motivate and align teams to improve performance, strengthen teamwork, and thrive with a Glad to Be Here Mindset. Listen to John live or virtually at the 2021 ILC Annual Conference! Find out more here: https://www.ciras.iastate.edu/iowalean/ilc-learning-opportunities/ilc-annual-conference-2021/

Episode #34 Hear from Tracy Schuster , Program Director of the Iowa Lean Consortium (ILC). The Center for Industrial Research and Service (CIRAS) was created in 1963 to improve the quality of life in Iowa by helping businesses and their communities prosper and grow. Our individually tailored strategy Engage. Educate. Embed. means we work with companies to fashion solutions specific to their individual needs. Hosted by Steven Wilson

Episode #33 Hear from James Mayhew , America's Chief Culture Officer on how to build culture, improve communication and boost engagement. The Center for Industrial Research and Service (CIRAS) was created in 1963 to improve the quality of life in Iowa by helping businesses and their communities prosper and grow. Our individually tailored strategy Engage. Educate. Embed. means we work with companies to fashion solutions specific to their individual needs. Hosted by Steven Wilson

Episode #32 Hear from CIRAS Project Manager, Troy Crowe about Leaning into your ERP System. The Center for Industrial Research and Service (CIRAS) was created in 1963 to improve the quality of life in Iowa by helping businesses and their communities prosper and grow. Our individually tailored strategy Engage. Educate. Embed. means we work with companies to fashion solutions specific to their individual needs.

Episode #31 is part two of our segment on the ILC Mentoring Program which is a members only benefit and is designed to enhance the professional experience and development of both mentors and mentees. During my conversation with Angie Steffen, Process Optimizer with Far Reach and, Danielle Roecker, Delivery Lead with Accenture Industry, we talk about why they got involved, how to make the most of the experience, the matching process used to help ensure the best fit, how it works being competitors, and much more. If you are interested in learning more about the ILC you can visit their website at https://www.ciras.iastate.edu/iowalean/or contact ILC Program Director Tracy Schuster at tschust@iastate.edu

If you google the term "mentoring" you'll see that there are over 379M options to choose from. Eventually you'd find what it means to be mentored or to be a mentor but through the ILC Radio Network Podcast, you'll now have the opportunity to hear from ILC Members who are currently participating in the ILC Mentoring Program as either mentors or mentees. This episode featured Shannon Soupiset, Senior Director, Genesis Systems Group, and Justin Pedersen, Quality Manager, ALMACO. My guests discussed why they got involved in the program and the benefits they've received. They also share insight into how to get the most out of the experience as well as some practical how to's.

Join me as I talk with Jamie Parker of Process + Results Lean Leadership Development, on change management and what that looks like in today's unpredictable climate.

Jeff's passion for the ILC and it's future shine through as he gives us additional insight into the vision of the Iowa Lean Consortium and the progress that has been made since its creation in 2009. He issues a challenge to the ILC members by responding to the question, "what do we need from the members of the ILC?". Episode # 8 features Jeff Dahm, current ILC Board President and Deere and Company Factory Advisor. Jeff has 23 years of manufacturing and business improvement experience in various leadership roles and in his current position at Deere & Company as Factory Advisor, he provides guidance and coaching for the Turf & Utility and Hay & Forage product factories. He is also responsible for the development of a company-wide lean manufacturing strategy to be deployed across all of its global factories and integrated into the John Deere Quality and Production System. ***Please note, our auto-record malfunctioned and we are missing the first 12 minutes of the interview***

Jessie DePriest, an Operational Excellence Coach at First National Bank in Omaha, NE and independent consultant joins me for this episode of the ILC Radio Network for a discussion on Processes. During this high energy discussion we cover such topics as process thinking at both the macro and micro level, the impact of systems on our ability to do our work, inputs and outputs, process mapping, the use of the SIPOC tool, and many, many more topics.

In any environment, personal or professional, trust is what we refer to as a “must have”. It's even more critical when the times and conditions are uncertain, as they are today. Join me for an informative and engaging conversation with Colonel Candice Frost, Director of Foreign Intelligence for the Army G-2 United States Army where we trust, as well as the value of mentorship and leading with purpose. Colonel Frost will be giving the keynote address at this year's ILC Conference and this episode of the ILC Radio Network is a little taste of what she'll be sharing.

During the final episode of a three part series on the subject of COVID-19 and it's impact on businesses across the state, Marc Schneider, CIRAS Project Manager and lead for our Industry Disaster Management Response Team, discusses and answers such questions as: Are there still supply chain issues from China? Why type of supply chain disruptions are we seeing within the US? What can we expect moving forward? What can I do if my current suppliers can't fill my orders? Who do I talk to if I think I can start making PPE?

During the second episode of a three part series on the subject of COVID-19 and its impact on businesses across the state, Marc Schneider, CIRAS Project Manager and lead for our Industry Disaster Management Response Team, discusses and answers such questions as: How do I determine if I am an “essential” business? What should I do if I suspect there has been a COVID-19 exposure at my facility? How can I practice social distancing at my facility? What steps should I be taking now to protect my business and employees?

My guest on this episode is Marc Schneider – CIRAS (Center for Industrial Research and Service) – COVID 19. During the first episode of a three part series on the subject of COVID-19 and its impact on businesses across the state, Marc Schneider, CIRAS Project Manager and lead for our Industry Disaster Management Response Team, discusses and answers such questions as: What is CIRAS doing to help Iowa Businesses? How can Iowa businesses access this assistance? Is there a cost for these services

Join me for part two of my interview with Becky Halstead, retired Brigadier General, United States Army, and founder of leader consultancy company, STEADFAST Leadership. We will cover truths 3-5 from her book "The First Person You Must Lead Is You". Becky specializes in inspirational speaking (nationally and internationally; corporate and academic), developing leader training programs, leader coaching, consulting and advising.Becky has over 15 years of executive‐level leadership experience, developing and training high-performing, complex and diverse teams capable of strategic planning and execution. She has a proven record of leading change, building successful teams in demanding environments (Afghanistan and Iraq, Germany, South America), and creating innovative solutions, systems and programs to complex problems. She is an experienced leader and logistician.

Join me as I interview Becky Halstead, retired Brigadier General, United States Army, and founder of leader consultancy company, STEADFAST Leadership. In her recent book, "The First Person You Must Lead Is You", Becky presents her five fundamental leadership truths- part one of this interview will cover the first 2 truths. Becky specializes in inspirational speaking (nationally and internationally; corporate and academic), developing leader training programs, leader coaching, consulting and advising.Becky has over 15 years of executive‐level leadership experience, developing and training high-performing, complex and diverse teams capable of strategic planning and execution. She has a proven record of leading change, building successful teams in demanding environments (Afghanistan and Iraq, Germany, South America), and creating innovative solutions, systems and programs to complex problems. She is an experienced leader and logistician.