Grateful for the Team

As my term as ABI Board Chair comes to a close, I’ve spent time reflecting on the experiences, conversations, and partnerships that have defined this past year. What stands out most is something I’ve said often throughout my time as chair: business is a team sport.

No one organization, leader, or industry succeeds alone. The strength of Iowa’s business community comes from the willingness of people to engage, collaborate, and work toward something bigger than themselves. Over the past year, I’ve seen that spirit firsthand through ABI members who continually step up to share ideas, advocate for progress, support one another, and invest in the future of our state.

Serving as chair has given me an even deeper appreciation for the role ABI plays in bringing people together and elevating Iowa industry. One example that stands out is the work ABI continues to do to promote manufacturing careers and showcase the companies driving Iowa’s economy forward. From the Elevate Iowa Manufacturing Tour to the Iowa Manufacturing Conference, this year’s efforts created opportunities to connect students, educators, policymakers, and business leaders with the incredible innovation and career pathways available in manufacturing today. Those initiatives are helping build awareness, pride, and momentum for the future of Iowa’s workforce.

I’m especially grateful to the ABI staff and Board of Directors for their dedication and leadership throughout the year. Their commitment to serving members and advancing Iowa’s business climate is evident in everything they do.

This year also marked the beginning of ABI and the ABI Foundation’s strategic planning process — a forward-looking effort that will help guide the organization’s priorities and impact in the years ahead. I’m excited about the direction ABI is heading and confident the organization will continue to evolve alongside the needs of Iowa employers.

Most of all, thank you to the members. Thank you for your engagement, your leadership, and your belief in the value of coming together as a business community. It has been a privilege to serve as your chair.

I look forward to continuing to support ABI and cheering on its success in the years ahead. ABI