Iowa State University of Science and Technology

University center name
EDA University Center at Iowa State University
Location
1805 Collaboration Place, Suite 2300 Ames, Iowa, 50010
Region
Denver
Year one
2023
Contact
Brenda Martin, Workforce Programs Director ([email protected])
Additional Contact
Leah Barton, Operations Director, [email protected], 515-294-3420

The EDA University Center "Iowa Workforce Innovation Network (iWIN)" at Iowa State University of Science and Technology is part of the Center for Industrial Research and Service (CIRAS). The goal is to pivot off the 100-year-old workforce-training model toward a holistic, community-focused approach to workforce management. With iWIN, ‘workforce’ is examined from four strategic viewpoints: 1) the regional STEM pipeline; 2) non-traditional attraction/retention efforts, including engineering talent; 3) employee output through incorporation of sustainable productivity initiatives; and 4) building a ‘virtual’ workforce with automation systems. The program will focus on cultivating innovation (35%), encouraging business expansion in a region’s innovation clusters (35%), and developing a high-skilled regional workforce (30%).