2023 Annual MFG Day

On October 6, 2023, and throughout the month, manufacturers, community colleges, and universities will warmly welcome young talents to explore diverse and promising careers in manufacturing to celebrate Manufacturing Day (MFG).   While the challenges in the supply chain are gradually improving, the workforce in the industry remains a significant concern. MFG Day is not just … Continue reading 2023 Annual MFG Day

Becoming Even More Competitive

Kirkland “Bubba” Davidson credits DBE certification with helping him better compete for subcontracting work. Kirkland “Bubba” Davidson, owner of the Des Moines-based Dirty 30 Trucking & Excavating, built his company from the ground up, relying mostly on his own skills and research. He was successful in securing independent contracts as well as subcontracting jobs, both … Continue reading Becoming Even More Competitive

Did You Know: Training Offered for the New Regulatory Adjustments on the Davis-Bacon Regulations Act

The Department of Labor’s recently published final rule updating the Davis-Bacon and Related Acts Regulations – the first comprehensive Davis-Bacon and Related Acts (DBRA) regulatory review – in nearly 40 years. Originating in 1931, the DBRA mandates that laborers and mechanics receive prevailing wages and fringe benefits when engaged in federally funded contracts exceeding $2,000. … Continue reading Did You Know: Training Offered for the New Regulatory Adjustments on the Davis-Bacon Regulations Act

CIRAS Marks 60 Years of Service

This year the Center for Industrial Research and Service (CIRAS) celebrates its 60th anniversary. The Board of Regents and Iowa legislature established CIRAS in 1963 to counsel industry on special problems, advise on appropriate procedures for growth, and conduct research and testing programs where necessary. In the last 10 years alone, CIRAS has had a … Continue reading CIRAS Marks 60 Years of Service

ALMACO Preserves Heritage with Advanced Technologies

Sometimes it takes the latest technology to restore some of the oldest things. CIRAS recently partnered with ALMACO in Nevada to recreate ornate metalwork on Nevada’s Briggs Terrace-Evergreen Lane house, which was built in 1879 and is on the National Historic Register. During the 2020 derecho, a tree fell into the front porch, damaging its … Continue reading ALMACO Preserves Heritage with Advanced Technologies

Climbing the Government Contract Ladder

  ePATHUSA, an Iowa software consulting and staff augmentation firm, has achieved remarkable success as a federal contractor, securing the 2023 National Small Woman-Owned Business of the Year award from the National 8(a) Association and HUBZone Contractors National Council. They are now well positioned to pursue contracts with the Department of Defense. Graduating from their … Continue reading Climbing the Government Contract Ladder

SBA’s Mentor-Protégé Program

Are you a small business that needs some practical guidance in the government contracting space, from a company that’s experienced in the Federal market? If so, and you know a large Prime contractor that could be a good partner, then the SBA’s Mentor-Protégé (MPP) program might be perfect for you! First of all, why would … Continue reading SBA’s Mentor-Protégé Program