Inaugural Elevate Iowa Manufacturing Tour a Resounding Success

The Iowa Association of Business and Industry (ABI) celebrated manufacturing across the state with the inaugural Elevate Iowa Manufacturing Tour, a twoweek initiative that culminated in record attendance at the ABI Manufacturing Conference. The tour highlighted the industry’s vital role in Iowa’s economy and brought together business leaders, elected officials, and workforce champions in communities statewide.

A Tour That Made an Impact
Over 20 stops showcased Iowa manufacturers and workforce training centers, drawing more than 500 Iowans who signed the “RV” in support of advancing manufacturing in the state. These visits provided a hands-on look at the innovation, skill, and dedication fueling Iowa’s manufacturing sector.

Seventeen elected officials joined the celebration, demonstrating bipartisan support for Iowa manufacturing, including Governor Kim Reynolds, Secretary of Agriculture Mike Naig, several state senators and representatives, and Des Moines Mayor Connie Boesen. Three agency directors also participated: Debi Durham (Iowa Economic Development Authority and Iowa Finance Authority Director), Beth Townsend (Iowa Workforce Development), and Kayla Lyon (Iowa Department of Natural Resources). Their presence underscored the collaboration between government and industry in supporting Iowa’s manufacturing workforce and economic growth.

Highlights from the ABI Manufacturing Conference
The tour concluded with the ABI Manufacturing Conference, which welcomed over 380 attendees, including industry executives, emerging leaders, and workforce development experts. The conference featured a business leaders panel, where executives shared insights on innovation, talent retention, and strategies for navigating the challenges and opportunities facing Iowa manufacturers today.

Attendees also heard from keynote speaker Eric Termuende, who emphasized that manufacturing is one of the industries experiencing the fastest pace of change. He explored how leaders can build incredible teams capable of adapting, evolving, and thriving, particularly as AI and other technological advances reshape the way work is done. Mr. Termuende highlighted that despite rapid change, trust, clarity, and connection remain the most important competitive advantages for organizations seeking to succeed in today’s environment.

Manufacturing: Driving Iowa’s Economy
Manufacturing continues to lead Iowa’s economy, contributing the largest share to the state’s GDP. The Elevate Iowa Manufacturing Tour and conference highlighted the sector’s ongoing importance while celebrating the people, companies, and communities that support Iowa’s manufacturing workforce and drive innovation across the state. ABI