Tariff developments continue to affect Iowa companies, and staying informed is key to protecting your operations. CIRAS is here to help you understand the latest shifts and make proactive decisions. In our May 16 morning update, Marc Schneider, CIRAS Supply Chain Lead, shared the following insights: Steel and aluminum tariffs are in effect as of … Continue reading Stay Ahead of Tariff Changes in Your Supply Chain – May 16 Update
Author: micapaul
CIRAS Staff News: Meet Edward Fitzsimons
Edward Fitzsimons joins CIRAS as a Digital Lab Engineer. Edward Fitzsimons brings a unique combination of military precision, technical expertise, and hands-on industry experience to his new role at the CIRAS Digital Manufacturing Lab, powered by Alliant Energy. Edward served for five years in the United States Marine Corps as a C-130 aircraft engine mechanic, … Continue reading CIRAS Staff News: Meet Edward Fitzsimons
CIRAS Staff News: Meet Tim Weiss
Tim Weiss joins CIRAS as a Strategic Advisor for Northeastern Iowa. Tim Weiss brings extensive experience in manufacturing leadership to his new role supporting companies in Dubuque, Cedar Rapids, Cedar Falls, Waterloo, and the surrounding region. Most recently, he served as Vice President of M&M Sales Enterprises, where he focused on operational efficiency, engineering solutions, … Continue reading CIRAS Staff News: Meet Tim Weiss
Stay Ahead of Tariff Changes in Your Supply Chain – April 3 Update
Tariff shifts continue to impact Iowa companies, making it more important than ever to stay proactive in managing risks and adapting your supply chain strategy. CIRAS is committed to keeping you informed and providing actionable insights to help your business stay resilient. Join Marc Schneider, CIRAS Supply Chain Lead, as he breaks down the latest … Continue reading Stay Ahead of Tariff Changes in Your Supply Chain – April 3 Update
Stay Ahead of Tariff Changes in Your Supply Chain – March 14 Update
Tariff shifts continue to impact Iowa companies, requiring businesses to stay proactive in managing risks and adapting their supply chains. CIRAS is committed to keeping you informed and providing actionable strategies to help your business remain resilient. Join Marc Schneider, CIRAS Supply Chain Lead, as he shares the latest insights on: Recent tariff updates and potential future … Continue reading Stay Ahead of Tariff Changes in Your Supply Chain – March 14 Update
Q&A with Jason Armstrong
Jason Armstrong, CIRAS Strategic Advisor Q: Tell me about your job and how it contributes to the overall goals of CIRAS to help companies prosper. As a primary point of contact for companies, I help identify areas for improvement and coordinate with the appropriate CIRAS team members to implement initiatives that drive growth and success. Q: … Continue reading Q&A with Jason Armstrong
Stay Ahead of Tariff Changes in Your Supply Chain – March 5 Update
Tariff shifts continue to impact Iowa companies, requiring businesses to stay proactive in managing risks and adapting their supply chains. CIRAS is committed to keeping you informed and providing actionable strategies to help your business remain resilient. Join Marc Schneider, CIRAS Supply Chain Lead, as he shares the latest insights on: Recent tariff updates and … Continue reading Stay Ahead of Tariff Changes in Your Supply Chain – March 5 Update
Response to Northern Iowa Floods
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
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