10 Scholarships Awarded for Advanced Manufacturing Training Across Iowa

ABI’s Elevate Advanced Manufacturing, a non-profit initiative spreading the word about career opportunities in advanced manufacturing, has awarded 10 $500 scholarships to recent Iowa high school graduates entering a manufacturing-related course of study at one of Iowa’s 15 community colleges.

Advanced manufacturing provides a wide range of high-paying and in-demand careers. According to the National Association of Manufacturers (NAM), manufacturing companies are in the top third of employers in the state of Iowa, providing 225,000 jobs to Iowans and representing 14.4% of the state’s total employment. With innovative advances in technology, robotics, and augmented and virtual reality, the manufacturing industry continues to grow, providing new and exciting career opportunities for Iowans.

"These scholarships represent more than just financial assistance; they are an investment in the future of Iowa's manufacturing industry,” said Mike Ralston, President of the Iowa Association of Business and Industry. “By supporting these talented young individuals, we are ensuring that our state remains at the forefront of innovation and productivity in manufacturing." 

The 2024 awardees are:

1. Kaden Wahlert, Prairie City- Monroe High School – Des Moines Area Community College
2. Mason Goche, Bettendorf High School – Hawkeye Community College
3. Ryan Steenhoek, Pella High School – Indian Hills Community College
4. Anthony Stalpes, Humboldt High School – Iowa Central Community College
5. Jaxon Roberts, Algona High School – Iowa Lakes Community College
6. Jack Jensen, Underwood High School – Iowa Western Community College
7. Toby Arkulari, Aplington-Parkersville High School – North Iowa Area Community College
8. Preston Hurd, Crestwood High School – North Iowa Area Community College
9. David Moreo, Lamoni High School – Southeastern Community College
10. Logan DeKoter, Clear Creek Amana High School – Kirkwood Community College