Made in Iowa: How a Second-Generation Family Manufacturer is Shaping the Future of Industrial Safety

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    In the heart of the Midwest, Grace Technologies is proving that innovation, engineering, and manufacturing excellence can flourish in Iowa. Headquartered in Davenport, the company blends cutting-edge product development with a people-first culture. Recognized as a Top Workplace in Iowa by the Des Moines Register every year since 2018, Grace’s success reflects a consistent commitment to both its employees and its mission.

    What Makes a “Top Workplace” in Iowa?
    The Des Moines Register’s Top Workplaces award is based entirely on employee feedback collected through a third-party survey. Companies are evaluated on culture, leadership, benefits, work-life balance, and overall employee satisfaction. Achieving this honor for seven consecutive years shows that Grace’s values are deeply embedded in how it operates every day.

    From a Small Spark to a Global Impact
    Founded in 1991 by Phil Allen, now Chairman of the Board, Grace began with a straightforward vision: solve real-world problems for industrial workers. That vision has grown into a portfolio of life-saving and productivity-boosting products used by companies worldwide.

    Over the decades, Grace has advanced into electrical safety devices, machine health monitoring systems, and wearable voltage detection, with design, testing, and key manufacturing operations based in Iowa. Today, the company continues to design solutions that protect workers, improve operational efficiency, and help customers embrace smarter, safer technologies.

    Innovation Beyond the Factory Floor
    Grace’s spirit of innovation extends into the community through Maple Studios, an innovation hub and coworking space it launched to support entrepreneurs and startups. While operating independently, Maple Studios reflects Grace’s belief that great ideas deserve resources, collaboration, and a chance to grow.

    High-Tech Manufacturing and Automation
    Grace designs and manufactures its products in-state, pairing engineering expertise with advanced manufacturing automation. This investment has strengthened Iowa’s position in high-tech manufacturing and created career opportunities for those who want to work with technologies shaping the future of industry.

    A Culture That Attracts and Grows Talent
    Grace’s leadership believes great products start with great people. Employees are encouraged to take ownership of their work, build new skills, and see the direct impact of what they create. Team activities, open communication, and cross-department collaboration are part of an intentional culture designed to keep work meaningful and engaging.

    Looking Ahead
    Grace Technologies continues to grow under the leadership of President and CEO Drew Allen. A second-generation leader, Drew earned the National Association of Manufacturers’ Next Generation Leadership Award before stepping into his current role. His forward-thinking approach and commitment to people and technology are strengthening Grace’s position as both a manufacturing leader and one of Iowa’s most dynamic places to work.

    For those seeking to join a company shaping the future of industrial safety and automation without leaving the Midwest, Grace offers a career path as inspiring as the products it creates.

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