John Brandt

CEO of The MPI Group and former editor-in-chief of IndustryWeek and Chief Executive magazines. He will speak on global best practices and trends and what it means to you and Iowa manufacturing. John Brandt provides the world's best research-driven advice on improving performance and competing more effectively in manufacturing, management and marketing.

His presentation is the equivalent of your own white paper for improved performance: a customized presentation with comparative data on manufacturing industry best practices and performance benchmarks, with analysis and recommendations tailored to the needs of the small and mid-sized manufacturer.

As a business leader, John proved his ability to turn organizations around and deliver stellar performance. The MPI Group is a world leader in independent research, advice and performance-targeted solutions.

Jim Brazell

Since 1995, Jim Brazell has motivated and captured the imagination of audiences worldwide, focusing on 21st century science, technology and society. He will speak on how technology is changing the nature of technical, engineering and scientific work and what we must do to recruit and develop 21st century talent.

Currently, Jim serves as a consulting analyst to the Texas State Technical College System (TSTC) and the University of Texas at Austin (UTA). At TSTC, Jim is responsible for developing a strategy to expand K-12 Career and Technology Education through partnerships with higher education, workforce and industry. At UTA, Jim provides analysis and strategy in support of research projects with the IC2 Institute (http://www.ic2.org/) and the Digital Media Collaboratory (DMC).

Jim received a bachelor of science in sociology, Summa Cum Laude, at Bradley University, Peoria, Illinois, in 1995.

Mike Tramontina

Mike Tramontina has served as Director of the Iowa Department of Economic Development under Governor Chet Culver and Lt. Governor Patty Judge since January, 2007.

Prior to taking up the post, Mike has served as Director of the Iowa Finance Authority. He has also served in the U.S. Department of Housing and Urban Development as Secretary's Representative for the Great Plains region, and as Deputy State Treasurer. He also worked in the private sector in public finance.

He's a native of Sioux City and a graduate of the University of Iowa.

Andrea Fredrickson

Andrea generates a motivating, high-energy presence that immediately involves people and has them responding to her excitement. She has real world experiences and crafts unique messages audiences can relate to.

Before becoming a senior coach and facilitator at American Institute of Management, Andrea experienced the business world through a variety of industries in positions from front-line to management. She has more than 10 years experience in management and coaching with over 15 years experience training with companies across the United States.

Andrea has a bachelor's degree in education from Dana College and additional course work in educational psychology, a master's degree in Business Management from Bellevue University and post-graduate course work in organzational behavior from the University of Nebraska - Lincoln.