Foundation Programs Support Iowa’s Future Workforce

This edition of Business Record Iowa is the “Back to School” issue and it focuses on ABI Foundation/ Education programs. In last month's edition of Business Record Iowa, I shared with you how excited I was to begin my term as ABI Chair for fiscal year 2021/2022. I look forward to continuing my goal to expand ABI’s incredible record of positive impact for Iowa.

In addition to promoting ABI and our members, a part of that mission is to also promote the programs of the ABI Foundation. Whether it be last month's annual Business Horizons experience, in which dozens of high school students came together for a week on the campus of Central College to learn about business and entrepreneurism, or this month's annual Leadership Iowa University program (a look at Iowa business for college students), or the many other activities the Foundation leads, I challenge you to become more familiar with work of the ABI Foundation during this coming year.

Encouraging participation in Foundation programs is an excellent way to build your community and your employees. Participants are more engaged in their company and in their community upon completion of these programs. That's good for them, good for you, and good for Iowa. I would call that a Win-Win-Win.

By the way, as you have come to expect from ABI, there is no "summer slowdown" regarding our work to advance members and their businesses. For instance, last month, ABI hosted meetings and events in Arnolds Park, Des Moines, Ottumwa, and Pella. That was in addition to many more virtual meetings and events. And, if your company is experiencing anything compared to what we are seeing at Jackson, you are very busy in your plant or office right now.

So, that being said, I am especially grateful to you for your support of ABI and growing the great State of Iowa. As I mentioned last month, I hope you reach out to me with your thoughts on how ABI can serve you and promote Iowa businesses.