Photo by StudioU
Kara Hinzie
Director of Operations | CRST | AGE: 38
Residence: Cedar Rapids
Hometown: Marion
Education: Associate degree in graphic communication from Kirkwood Community College
What was your first job? High school sports photographer at the Marion Times.
Best advice you ever received? We are human beings, not human doings. Meaning, our value is not measured by our productivity.
What would most people be surprised to learn about you? Many colleagues may be unaware that prior to my current career, I was self-employed as a professional photographer — beginning in an era when film, not digital cameras, were standard. My studio focused on portraits for weddings, families, high school seniors, and corporate headshots, to pay the bills. However, my true passion has always been nature photography, which I continue to pursue whenever possible.
If you had $1 million to give, what causes would you support? If entrusted with $1 million to allocate toward causes, my priority would be to invest in organizations dedicated to advancing holistic wellness across the community — encompassing physical, mental, emotional, social, financial and spiritual health. I would also support local animal rescue efforts, recognizing the profound value of compassionate care for animals. Finally, I believe in the transformative power of education; as knowledge expands, so does our awareness of what remains to be learned, fostering humility and empathy within our society.
What are your passions outside of the workplace? Outside of work, I greatly value spending quality time with my partner, Scotty Beer, and our two cats, Ollie and Frankie. I also enjoy exploring my culinary interests — not only preparing meals, but also capturing the finished product. I find that I am at my best when in nature, whether hiking, gardening, or simply relaxing with a good book or in the company of friends on a patio. It has been a privilege to participate in the Leadership for Five Seasons Class of 2024. Since graduating, I have remained engaged with my classmates, discovering a sense of community and friendship I hadn’t realized I was missing.
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 21st class of Forty Under 40 honorees, chosen by a committee of past honorees.
