ReINVENTing Iowa, College of Business & Innovation
 Danielle White |
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| Jarrod Diehm 
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TJ Anderson |
After spending most of the today in Ames, IA, I have learned that there is a great amount of opportunity in this area. We took a tour of Sauer Dafoss, a hydraulics manufacturing company domiciled in Germany. Although they have been downsizing due to the economy, they continue to operate in an efficient and innovative manner. I felt the presentation from Mr. Dan Culhane, Executive Director of Ames Chamber of Commerce, was a very informative viewpoint of the city of Ames. Although a little biased, Dan’s speech acted as a worthy transition to the rest of our day. From Sauer Danfoss we traveled to Ames Research Park where we heard from five esteemed representatives from some of the different companies/divisions. The Park presents a very neat set-up for the students. My favorite speaker at this location was Alan Bierbaum, VP of Technology with Priority 5. According to Alan, a couple different arms of the Federal Government are not up to date with some of the current computer software, because programs such as Windows XP are not deemed to be secure yet. Alan helped implement a totally new computer software for a particular organization that Alan said was “Google Earth on steroids.” Alan’s big pitch to all us at LIU was to poke your head in places, because you’ll never know what will come of it. He found his way with Priority 5 by directly asking the research director, Anthony McDermott, to help out in the research lab. This success story is one that can be patterned by many individuals at many times in their careers. I hope I can develop this level of curiosity and passion as I continue to learn about many of the opportunities in this great state.
Today began to open up my mind in more ways than one. I am very excited for what is to come!! |
Aug 12, 2009 11:27 AM
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Leadership Iowa University is a program of the Iowa Association of Business and Industry (ABI) Foundation. The program is designed to bring together two ABI Foundation programs, Leadership Iowa and Business Horizons, to create a unique opportunity for college students. Leadership Iowa University will educate, inspire and develop young leaders as the foundation for Iowa’s future economic growth and encourage their on-going involvement in local communities and the state to create a better future for all Iowans. |  |
