In this episode of the Iowa Manufacturing Podcast, Kerry Burns, owner of Mason Road Manufacturing, joins the show with his sons Jack and Jordan for an inspiring discussion about their family business. Kerry shares the origins of Mason Road, offering insights into the principles that have shaped its success. From hard work to a focus on quality, these foundational values continue to drive the company today.

Jack and Jordan bring a fresh perspective, describing how they're working to modernize the business while honoring its history. The trio discusses the dynamics of running a family business, adapting to industry changes, and navigating the challenges of workforce development. Whether you're in manufacturing or simply inspired by stories of family entrepreneurship, this episode has something for everyone.

Hear the full show: https://iowapodcast.com/manufacturing-engineering

In this episode (part 2) of the Iowa Manufacturing Podcast, we explore the remarkable story of Kwizera Imani, a Project Engineer at Collins Aerospace. Born in a Tanzanian refugee camp, Imani's early life was defined by adversity but also by a deep sense of community, teamwork, and resilience. At just 15 years old, he arrived in the United States with a 3rd-grade reading level, facing immense challenges in adapting to his new environment. Through sheer determination and the guidance of a dedicated mentor, David Staab, Imani discovered his aptitude for math and was encouraged to pursue a degree in aerospace engineering. Today, he is a thriving professional, having graduated first in his class and working on cutting-edge projects in the aerospace industry.

Joining Imani in the studio is Brian Patterson, Executive Director of Freedom for Youth, who shares how mentorship and faith-based programming helped shape Imani's path and continue to empower youth across Iowa. Together, they reflect on the importance of building communities that uplift and support one another. Despite his incredible success, Imani's journey is bittersweet as he advocates for his father, a fellow refugee, who is struggling to find work due to language barriers. His story is a powerful testament to the importance of mentorship, perseverance, and the collective effort required to create opportunities for those seeking a better life.

Hear the full show: https://iowapodcast.com/tanzanian-refugee-aerospace-engineer

In this episode (part 1) of the Iowa Manufacturing Podcast, we explore the remarkable story of Kwizera Imani, a Project Engineer at Collins Aerospace. Born in a Tanzanian refugee camp, Imani's early life was defined by adversity but also by a deep sense of community, teamwork, and resilience. At just 15 years old, he arrived in the United States with a 3rd-grade reading level, facing immense challenges in adapting to his new environment. Through sheer determination and the guidance of a dedicated mentor, David Staab, Imani discovered his aptitude for math and was encouraged to pursue a degree in aerospace engineering. Today, he is a thriving professional, having graduated first in his class and working on cutting-edge projects in the aerospace industry.

Joining Imani in the studio is Brian Patterson, Executive Director of Freedom for Youth, who shares how mentorship and faith-based programming helped shape Imani's path and continue to empower youth across Iowa. Together, they reflect on the importance of building communities that uplift and support one another. Despite his incredible success, Imani's journey is bittersweet as he advocates for his father, a fellow refugee, who is struggling to find work due to language barriers. His story is a powerful testament to the importance of mentorship, perseverance, and the collective effort required to create opportunities for those seeking a better life.

Hear the full show: https://iowapodcast.com/tanzanian-refugee-aerospace-engineer

In this episode of the Iowa Manufacturing Podcast, Leisa sits down with Chris Proskey, Chair of the Intellectual Property Practice at BrownWinick, to tackle the critical issues surrounding trademarks. From the iconic green and yellow of John Deere to the ongoing trademark battle between Drake University and DMACC over the use of a "block D," Chris sheds light on how businesses can navigate complex legal waters to protect their brand identity.

Listeners will also gain insights into the high-profile rebranding of MetaBank to Pathward and the controversy surrounding the GreenState Credit Union's name change. With actionable advice on resolving disputes, avoiding pitfalls, and meeting the upcoming January 18th USPTO deadline, this episode is a must-listen for anyone invested in brand protection and intellectual property.

Hear the full show: https://iowapodcast.com/chris-proskey-trademarks-protect-your-brand

On this episode of the Iowa Manufacturing Podcast, Leisa interviews Eric Kress of the Central Iowa Workforce Development Board. Eric discusses how the board responded to the Tyson layoffs in Perry, Iowa, including their collaboration with federal, state, and local leaders. He outlines challenges in redeploying affected employees and shares how employers can play a crucial role in overcoming these barriers.

Eric also provides a glimpse into the future of workforce development, encouraging employers to get involved in initiatives that support long-term talent cultivation. His practical advice highlights the importance of partnerships in building a resilient workforce.

Hear the full show: https://iowapodcast.com/eric-kress-tyson-employee-redeployment

On this episode of the Iowa Manufacturing Podcast, Leisa welcomes Troy Vincent of Navigate Wellbeing Solutions and Whitney Kolbe of Kemin for a deep dive into workplace wellness. They unpack the concept of Value on Investment (VOI) versus Return on Investment (ROI), exploring how wellness programs can drive both business success and employee wellbeing.

Whitney details how Kemin's wellness initiatives are changing lives by creating a supportive and health-focused culture. Troy discusses how HR professionals can better manage wellness programs using data while balancing various stakeholder needs. Their combined expertise provides a roadmap for companies aiming to enhance their wellness strategies.

Hear the full show: https://iowapodcast.com/vincent-kolbe-creating-value-through-wellness

Levi Cermak of Elevator Spaces joins the Iowa Manufacturing Podcast to discuss how co-warehousing has revolutionized Omaha's manufacturing scene—and how it's coming soon to Des Moines. With over 100 companies benefiting from services like warehousing, kitting, docking, and operational support, Elevator Spaces is creating more than logistics solutions; they're building thriving business communities.

Levi shares how their new Des Moines location, set to launch at 12th and Mulberry this spring, aims to support Central Iowa's makers and manufacturers. He breaks down how shared logistics services reduce costs, streamline operations, and create opportunities for collaboration.

Hear the full show: https://iowapodcast.com/levi-cermak-co-warehousing-in-des-moines

The APEX program in Waukee is changing the game for manufacturing education by reimagining how students and parents perceive the industry. A simple yet powerful change—renaming the course Engineering Technology and Robotics (ETR)—has led to a threefold increase in student enrollment. Paired with innovative partnerships with local manufacturers and nonprofits, APEX is equipping students with skills for both today's careers and those still to come.

APEX Engineer Instructor Tyler Wright joins us alongside standout students Jeev Matthew Maliyil and Nikhil Vaduguri to discuss their hands-on learning experiences. Their recent project, adapting toys for children with special needs, highlights how real-world applications of skills keep students engaged and committed to their work. Learn how this program is cultivating talent and inspiring the next generation of manufacturing leaders.

Hear the full show: https://iowapodcast.com/APEX-waukee-manufacturing

Frivolous employment lawsuits are on the rise, thanks to pro-employee rules under the Biden administration, causing increased Employment Practices Liability Insurance (EPLI) claims and skyrocketing premiums. Dani Smid, Chair of the Employment Practice Group for BrownWinick, joins us to discuss these issues and the potential for sweeping changes in employment law under a Trump administration. With possible shifts at the NLRB, OSHA, DOL, and EEOC, the manufacturing sector may soon see a more employer-friendly regulatory environment.

Manufacturers need to be prepared. Dani explains how these changes could relieve the EPLI burden while impacting joint-employer standards, independent contractor classification, and union election procedures. Listen in to learn what adjustments you might consider for a proactive response in the year ahead.

Hear the full show: https://iowapodcast.com/dani-smid-trump-25-employment-changes

Join us for an in-depth conversation with Ben Coady of Pella Corporation, where we explore his career journey and the transformative role of robotics and automation in manufacturing. Since starting as a process engineer in 2011, Ben's role has expanded and evolved with Pella's growth and its adoption of new technologies. Through his experience, he shares how automation is not only reshaping operations but also redefining the skills needed in today's workforce.

This episode is a must-listen for manufacturing leaders, as Ben provides valuable insights into navigating change, adapting to market demands, and building a future-ready workforce. With authenticity and expertise, Ben's story illustrates the evolution of manufacturing skills and highlights what executives should consider to remain competitive.

Hear the full show: https://iowapodcast.com/ben-coady-robotics-automation-workforce-changes