When devastating floods struck northern Iowa, CIRAS, America’s Small Business Development Center (SBDC), Iowa, and the University of Northern Iowa’s Business and Community Services (UNI BCS) quickly mobilized together to assess damage and support affected companies. While direct impacts to manufacturers were limited, recovery was hindered by workforce shortages, housing challenges, and infrastructure disruptions. Small … Continue reading Response to Northern Iowa Floods
Month: March 2025
Finding the Inventory and Warehouse Management Sweet Spot
Dutchland Foods, a pastry producer based in rural Lester, Iowa, has built its reputation on crafting delectable pastries like the cinnamon kouign amann—a fusion of croissant and cinnamon roll. Behind the scenes, balancing ingredient and packaging material levels efficiently without overstocking presents a complex challenge. To address these needs, Dutchland turned to CIRAS. “Like any … Continue reading Finding the Inventory and Warehouse Management Sweet Spot
Iowa State Prepares for Micro-credential Program Launch
An Iowa State University micro-credential workgroup has spent the past several months building a foundation for the micro-credential program in preparation for a rollout in summer or fall 2025. Led by Tanya Austin, professional development and micro-credential program specialist at the Center for Excellence in Learning and Teaching (CELT), the workgroup established processes and standards … Continue reading Iowa State Prepares for Micro-credential Program Launch
Superior Tube Products Develops a Model Internship Program
Superior Tube Products (STP), a Davenport-based metal tube fabricator, created an internship program for industrial and manufacturing systems engineering (IMSE) students with assistance from CIRAS. This initiative goes beyond providing students with real-world experience; it strengthens STP’s operations and workforce. Too often, internships lead to disappointing experiences for both students and companies. STP took a … Continue reading Superior Tube Products Develops a Model Internship Program
Exploring the Future of AI in Iowa: AI Summit Drives Industry Adoption
Artificial intelligence (AI) is transforming industries, and CIRAS is helping Iowa companies adapt to this new era. At the inaugural Iowa Artificial Intelligence Summit for Industry, CIRAS brought together more than 130 attendees and 24 speakers in collaboration with partners, including Iowa State University’s Ivy College of Business, Iowa State’s Translational Artificial Intelligence Center, the … Continue reading Exploring the Future of AI in Iowa: AI Summit Drives Industry Adoption
ADA Enterprises Expands with Strategic Guidance from CIRAS
The Northwood-based manufacturer of plastisol-coated steel products had strong sales but recognized that future growth was constrained by limited space and workforce availability. Their plans involved investing millions in land acquisition, a substantial building expansion, and integrating robotics. To ensure success, they sought guidance from CIRAS. “Turning to CIRAS was a natural choice,” said ADA … Continue reading ADA Enterprises Expands with Strategic Guidance from CIRAS
CIRAS Assists Lindblom Services in Supporting Community
In June 2024, historic rainfall caused flash floods across northwest Iowa, Minnesota, and South Dakota, leading to record-breaking river overflows. Homes, farmland, and companies near the West Fork of the Des Moines River faced devastating impacts. State and federal response teams, including FEMA, mobilized quickly to address the crisis. Recognizing the urgent needs of Iowa … Continue reading CIRAS Assists Lindblom Services in Supporting Community
Planning for Automation: Essential Steps for Success
Automation Business Resiliency CIRAS NEWS Engineering Growth Manufacturing Technology Assistance Workforce
Automation addresses challenges such as workforce shortages, capacity limits, rising costs, and quality concerns. However, many companies face difficulties with implementation. Success requires careful planning, including defining your scope, building the right team, managing risks, and ensuring lasting success. Define the Scope: Focus on automating what makes the most sense. Avoid attempting to automate everything … Continue reading Planning for Automation: Essential Steps for Success