Each year, the Corridor Business Journal shines a spotlight on young professionals who have made a meaningful impact on the region early in their careers. We are proud to introduce you to the 20th class of Forty Under 40 honorees, chosen by a committee of past honorees. Alex Gansen Chief Financial Officer | University of […]
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Alex Gansen
Chief Financial Officer | University of Iowa Energy Collaborative
Age: 36
Family: Wife, Ashley; daughters, Belle and Ayla
Residence: North Liberty, Iowa
Hometown: Cedar Rapids, Iowa
Education: Iowa State University — Bachelor of Science in Accounting
Best advice you ever received? Don’t be afraid to make mistakes, they are part of learning and growing. Each mistake provides a valuable opportunity to improve yourself. Embrace them as necessary steps in your journey toward success.
What would most people be surprised to learn about you? While in college, I studied abroad for a semester in Australia. It completely reshaped my perspective on the world and fundamentally changed how I approach challenges and problem-solving.
What’s the biggest issue facing the Corridor, and why? Our community is facing a significant shortage of skilled tradespeople. Trades are often perceived as undervalued, which affects the number of young people entering the field. Training and education gaps also contribute to the shortage, causing fewer individuals equipped with the skills necessary to enter and succeed in trade professions.
If you had $1 million to give, what causes would you support? I would support Trees Forever, the University of Iowa Health Care Stead Family Children’s Hospital, and the Johnson County Animal Shelter. I would also support causes working toward preventing and curing heart disease. My family has been affected by this; helping victims of these diseases recover and live a full & fulfilling life hits close to home.
What are your passions outside of the workplace? I am passionate about competing in 5K / 10K runs as well as riding my bicycle in organized rides such as RAGBRAI. I also enjoy golfing, fishing, and kayaking during the spring and summer months.
What’s something people should know about your generation in the workplace?
We value meaningful and rewarding work. We seek out roles that align with our personal values and enable us to make a deep impact on our community and organizations.
