Photo by StudioU
Robert Rathje
HR Program Manager | UFG Insurance | AGE: 32
Family: Wife, Taylor; son, Rowan; daughters, Harlow and Winnie
Residence: Marion
Hometown: Watkins
Education: MBA from the University of Iowa, exercise science degree from the University of Northern Iowa
What do you consider your “big break” in your career, so far? When my calling, capabilities, and ambitions converged into one undeniable direction early in my career journey. The energy felt and synergy experienced helped me realize that my true purpose was to help others self-actualize their full potential. This realization fundamentally shifted how I approached every aspect of my life, and accelerated my path towards high performance, purpose-driven decision making, and meaningful passion-aligned work.
If you had $1 million to give, what causes would you support? I would invest in causes and organizations that demonstrate how to effectively build community connections, create multi-service solutions, and inspire collective actions that make us stronger together. This macro-level “cause” of community building is the core catalyst that supports all the noble causes within our local communities. This cause represents the strength of a community and cultivates an environment where each individual feels valued, supported, and connected to one another.
On a day-to-day basis, community building enables our ability to unify people, resources, and efforts towards a common vision to drive positive impact. In times of crisis, it empowers resiliency and recovery when the times are toughest. In the past, present and future, it has and will forever be the key to what makes a strong, vibrant community where all can thrive.
What’s something people should know about your generation in the workplace? My generation is rooted in purpose, focused on people and inspired by possibilities. We believe success is measured by results and the positive impact we create within our environment. We strive to co-create a brighter future where all can thrive because we recognize legacies aren’t built alone — they are built together through shared visions, bold decisions, and collective actions. Similar to all generations, our work approach is guided by these ideals and we desire to be a part of something bigger than ourselves.
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.
