At CIRAS, we take pride in being ready to help you solve your toughest problems. As we enter 2024, we’re excited to build on our foundation with a range of initiatives designed to support your growth and success, fostering collaboration, promoting informed technology adoption, and maximizing access to world-class expertise. Building a Smarter Construction Industry: … Continue reading 2024 Year in Preview
Progress in Artificial Intelligence (AI) was probably the number one topic in the business world in 2023. As we move into 2024, the big question seems to be: now what? CIRAS is approaching AI just like all other technologies: as an enabler of solutions. We help Iowa industry solve your toughest challenges, applying technology when … Continue reading Our Approach to ArtificiaI Intelligence at CIRAS
Amidst a period where projects may have experienced a slowdown, it is opportune to explore the training opportunities provided by the Iowa Department of Transportation (DOT). The Iowa DOT Technical Training and Certification Program offers a variety of training formats, accommodating both in-person and virtual sessions. Construction in Training (CIT) funding is available for DBE … Continue reading Iowa DOT Training Opportunities and CIT Funding for Contractors
The U.S. Department of Economic Administration has chosen CIRAS to continue its role in the national University Center program. This designation, along with a five-year grant, will provide CIRAS with the resources needed to enhance its support for the construction industry in Iowa. As part of the new initiative, CIRAS will undertake four specific activities: … Continue reading CIRAS Secures 5-Year EDA Grant to Benefit Iowa Construction Sector
Join us May 14-16, 2024 in Lexington, KY, for an immersive experience blending Lean leadership workshops, site visits to industry leaders like Toyota and Safran Landing Systems, and fun networking opportunities with other ILC members. Led by the author of “Toyota Culture: The Heart and Soul of the Toyota Way,” Mike Hoseus, this learning experience … Continue reading Elevate your Lean learning and development – be part of the ILC Kentucky Lean Tour 2024!
Q & A with Kelly Freel, CPPB Role: Team Lead, APEX Accelerator, Government Contracting Specialist Q: Tell me about your job and how it contributes to the overall goals of CIRAS to help companies prosper. I advise Iowa businesses on how to prepare for government contracting, including subcontracting with prime contractors. Helping Iowa businesses with … Continue reading Q & A with Kelly Freel, CPPB
Federal subcontracting is the place to be! It all starts with understanding where you’re a good fit within the indirect market. One avenue to identify potential opportunities with prime contractors is by understanding what prime contractors have a subcontracting plan! A subcontract plan is required by large prime contractors in the federal sector if the … Continue reading Researching Prime Contractors with Subcontracting Plans
One of our favorite times of the year is here! ‘Tis the season to remind everybody that there are awesome Iowa-made products to give as gifts! Stay well-equipped on and off the road with a new Truck Topper from Black River. Celebrate your special moments with custom photos and printed home decor from Photosynthesis. Give … Continue reading 8th Annual CIRAS Holiday Gift List
The original content was generated from The Industry Iowa Podcast, recorded on June 30, 2022. Q: Can you share your background and how you became involved with Iowa State and CIRAS? A: I started around 2006 after working as a chemist and obtaining a degree in chemistry from Iowa State University (ISU). After that, I … Continue reading Q&A with CIRAS Project Manager Brian Muff
Most businesses receiving services from our CIRAS APEX Accelerator program are receiving a Bid Match service from us no cost. This service helps businesses find formally-posted opportunities related to their products and services. The majority of posts found by the Bid Match, however, are in the solicitation phase, in which government agencies are actively seeking … Continue reading What Does the Forecast Say?