Leadership Iowa University completed its annual five-day program for 2025, with 18 college students and interns focused on professional development and exploring career opportunities in Iowa.
The participants engaged in professional and personal development activities, toured businesses and industries, and learned about Iowa’s business landscape. The program included sessions on leveraging personal strengths for interviews and career advancement, along with networking opportunities.
Students visited companies including Pella Corporation, Kemin Industries, Vermeer and Musco Lighting, as well as community organizations such as Habitat for Humanity, the Boys & Girls Club of Central Iowa and Mainframe Studios. Participants met with state and local leaders and learned about various career fields.
“I took away leadership and career development skills that will stick with me throughout the rest of my life along with people that will support me,” said Lance Sobaski, a student at Wartburg College.
The program connected participants with more than 100 professionals and leaders across various businesses and industries.
Sponsors and tour hosts included Emerson, Farm Bureau Financial Services, Grinnell Mutual, the Iowa Soybean Association and Pella Corporation.
The 18 participants represented institutions including Iowa State University, the University of Iowa, Drake University, Grand View University, Simpson College, Des Moines Area Community College, Wartburg College, University of Jamestown and St. Ambrose University. Several participants were completing internships with Iowa companies during the program.
Leadership Iowa University is operated by the Iowa Association of Business and Industry Foundation, a nonprofit organization that promotes partnerships among business, education and communities while fostering leadership development across Iowa.
Additional information about the program and sponsors is available at LeadershipIowaUniversity.com.
