Leadership insights from Billi Hunt, executive director of America's Cultivation Corridor
The world comes here. Nearly every day, I have the opportunity to work with companies, organizations and individuals who are coming to Iowa to make connections, attend world-class events, expand their ag-related business or interact with the researchers, farmers and leaders in our state.
These interactions are one of the best parts of my job, but even more rewarding is when I have a chance to celebrate the talented and forward-thinking people who make a decision to stay in Iowa.
The Next Gen Innovation Impact Study program is a great example of an effort encouraging young talent to stay in the state. America’s Cultivation Corridor launched the Next Gen program in partnership with Iowa State University’s Start Something College of Agriculture and Life Sciences to introduce students to agricultural innovations and opportunities. We checked in with a few of them after graduation to see how the program impacted their career decisions and what they are excited about in today’s agricultural industry. Read the article with their perspectives.
There are lots of great reasons to stay in, or return to, Iowa. With one-in-five of the state’s jobs related to agriculture, opportunities await. In fact, Iowa ranks first, second and third for its share of food scientists, agricultural technicians and advanced manufacturing workers. Interesting and meaningful careers as well as the latest food and ag technology mean working in our state’s industry has never been more exciting.
For the past several months, we’ve been recognizing 10 years of America’s Cultivation Corridor by highlighting the 10 ways that Iowa Innovation makes the world a better place. Please join us to celebrate at our Innovation Celebration during the World Food Prize events. The reception will be held at the Iowa Events Center from 5:30 to 7:30 p.m. on Wednesday, October 30. Learn more and RSVP here.
If you have a story about choosing Iowa, drop me an e-mail at bhunt@cultivationcorridor.org. We’re always looking for new experiences to share with our audiences. You never know, your example could be the next reader’s inspiration!
Published September 2024.