Industry Sector Approaches: Wind Energy in Iowa - Can You Be a Supplier?
In just three short years, Iowa has experienced an explosion of vertical manufacturing growth in wind energy. Five major industry leaders recently chose to expand their manufacturing base in Iowa. Not only is it rare to experience this level of expansion, it signals Iowa's preeminence in an industry positively shaping long-term technology and employment. Learn about economic development impact, supply chain needs, manufacturing growth, and logistics strengths and challenges as this new and growing industry sector develops in Iowa. The panel discussion will include senior company representatives from numerous wind power companies, along with economic development officials, including: Clipper Windpower, Cedar Rapids; Acciona, West Branch; and the Iowa Department of Economic Development.

Innovative Ways to Meet Your Workforce Challenges: Structured On-the-Job Training Programs
Apprenticeship and structured on-the-job training programs help manufacturing companies to grow talent and develop skills in new and existing employees. Learn about training resources that combine on-the-job training with related technical instruction, resources and partnerships required to start an apprenticeship program, and the correlation between apprenticeship training and certified skills. Panel presentation: Tim Carson, Bureau of Apprenticeship and Trade; Jeff Mitchell, Continuing Education Program Development; and Lisa Paterno and Doug Rosenbaum, Magna International, Williamsburg.