Safety in the construction industry is a #1 priority; however, there is another safety issue that goes beyond physical protection and equipment — the importance of addressing mental health. Companies should consider a holistic safety program that considers the well-being of workers’ minds, bodies, and spirits. I will be exploring further resources and ideas to … Continue reading Building Bridges: Connecting Safety and Mental Health in Construction
Month: March 2024
Unlocking Government Contracting: Beyond DBE Set Asides
Are you contemplating exploring opportunities beyond those offered by the DBE set aside? If so, you might want to consider leveraging the support provided by organizations like APEX Accelerators. APEX Accelerators specialize in assisting small businesses in navigating government contracting across various levels – city, county, state, and federal. Their services come at no cost … Continue reading Unlocking Government Contracting: Beyond DBE Set Asides
Keep Your Certification Current: Iowa DBE Renewal Process Guidelines
This is a friendly reminder regarding the annual DBE certification renewal process. The annual eligibility review, mandated by the Iowa Department of Transportation (DOT), is a crucial step to maintain your certification status. The anniversary month of your DBE certification prompts you to complete your renewal. To comply, fill out the form entitled “Affidavit of … Continue reading Keep Your Certification Current: Iowa DBE Renewal Process Guidelines
Navigating Cybersecurity in Federal Contracting: Insights and Strategies
In the landscape of federal contracting, cybersecurity compliance has become a critical focus for companies aiming to secure and maintain contracts with the U.S. Department of Defense (DoD) and other federal agencies. These cybersecurity requirements, particularly the Cybersecurity Maturity Model Certification (CMMC), can be daunting. However, understanding these requirements is crucial for companies seeking to … Continue reading Navigating Cybersecurity in Federal Contracting: Insights and Strategies
Empowering Workforces: The Transformative Potential of Exoskeletons in Industry
Due to an aging and limited workforce, Iowa’s small to medium-sized companies are experiencing the not-so-unique pain points of repetitive injuries, lower productivity caused by fatigue, decreased efficiency, and turnover. Exoskeletons are emerging as a significant advancement in workplace ergonomics, thus addressing these pain points. They offer a blend of human intelligence and robotic strength … Continue reading Empowering Workforces: The Transformative Potential of Exoskeletons in Industry
Get Involved with Rock Island Arsenal and the U.S. Army Corps of Engineers
By Troy Robbins, Deputy for Small Business Programs, U.S. Army Corps of Engineers at Rock Island Arsenal One of the Iowa APEX Accelerator’s best Federal friends is at Rock Island Arsenal in the Small Business office for the Army Corps of Engineers…Troy Robbins! Troy is a huge advocate for small businesses, regularly sends out updates … Continue reading Get Involved with Rock Island Arsenal and the U.S. Army Corps of Engineers
Q & A with Kira Kistner
Q & A with Kira Kistner Role: Manufacturing Research Strategist, External Services Q: Tell me about your job and how it contributes to the overall goals of CIRAS to help companies prosper. In my role as a Manufacturing Research Strategist, I am responsible for connecting Iowa State University researchers and Iowa industry representatives in the … Continue reading Q & A with Kira Kistner