Elevate Advanced Manufacturing: Supporting Future Talent and Honoring Industry Legends

Elevate Advanced Manufacturing, a program of the ABI Foundation, plays a vital role in shaping the future of Iowa’s workforce by promoting careers and educational pathways in advanced manufacturing. The initiative seeks to challenge common misconceptions about the industry by building a positive perception around its work environment, safety standards, and competitive wages. Through these efforts, Elevate is preparing the next generation to enter Iowa’s robust manufacturing sector.

Scholarships for High School Students
One way Elevate Advanced Manufacturing achieves this goal is by supporting high school graduates pursuing careers in the industry through scholarships to at- tend one of Iowa’s community colleges. These scholarships open doors for students interested in technical education, allowing them to develop the skills needed to succeed in this high-demand field.

This year, the following students were recognized for their commitment to advancing their education in manufacturing:
• Kaden Wahlert, Prairie City-Monroe High School – Des Moines Area Community College
• Mason Goche, Bettendorf High School – Hawkeye Community College
• Ryan Steenhoek, Pella High School – Indian Hills Community College
• Anthony Stalpes, Humboldt High School – Iowa Central Community College
• Jaxon Roberts, Algona High School – Iowa Lakes Community College
• Jack Jensen, Underwood High School – Iowa Western Community College
• Toby Arkulari, Aplington-Parkersburg High School – North Iowa Area Community College
• Preston Hurd, Crestwood High School – North Iowa Area Community College
• David Moreo, Lamoni High School – Southeastern Community College
• Logan DeKoter, Clear Creek Amana High School – Kirkwood Community College

Legends in Manufacturing
Each year Elevate Advanced Manufacturing also holds the Legends in Manufacturing Awards luncheon to honor individuals who have made significant contributions to the industry. The awards recognize not only the dedication of these professionals to their companies but also their impact on the broader manufacturing landscape in Iowa.

The Legends in Manufacturing program shines a spotlight on those who have gone above and beyond in advancing the industry and driving Iowa’s economic growth.

• Under 100 Employees: Hernan Etcheto, Nutriom (Panora)
• 100-300 Employees: Gary Sharp, Advanced Heat Treat Corporation (Waterloo)
• 300+ Employees: John Lisle, Lisle Corporation & EZ Way Inc. (Clarinda)
• Posthumous: Jim Tyler, Atlantic Coca-Cola Bottling Co.

These legends will be honored on October 2, 2024, during the annual awards ceremony at ABI’s Iowa Manufacturing Conference, an event dedicated to recognizing excellence in manufacturing and celebrating the industry’s essential role in Iowa’s economy.

Through the scholarships and awards, Elevate Advanced Manufacturing and ABI continue to support the future of Iowa’s workforce while honoring the accomplishments of industry leaders. By investing in education and recognizing excellence, they are paving the way for innovation and growth in Iowa’s manufacturing sector. As these initiatives move forward, the impact on both the students and industry veterans will shape the state’s economic success for years to come. ABI