Leaders at John Deere share why Iowa is the center of innovation
When people think of innovation, they often picture bustling coastal cities or high-tech hubs. But here in Iowa, something extraordinary is happening—advanced manufacturing is thriving in the heart of America. From precision agriculture to cutting-edge industrial equipment, Iowa is home to world-class companies like John Deere that are redefining what it means to build the future.
This Q&A with leaders from John Deere Des Moines Works—recent winners of the Coolest Thing Made in Iowa contest—offers a behind-the-scenes look at why Iowa is more than just a great place to live. It’s a place where meaningful careers are built, where innovation is rooted in tradition and where community and opportunity go hand in hand. Whether you’re seeking professional growth, a strong sense of purpose or a high quality of life, Iowa’s manufacturing sector offers it all.
Read on to learn how Iowa’s unique blend of heritage, talent and technology is shaping the next generation of manufacturing and why it might just be the perfect place for your next big move.
What does it mean to John Deere and your manufacturing teams to win the “Coolest Thing Made in Iowa”?
Winning the “Coolest Thing Made in Iowa” is a tremendous honor for John Deere Des Moines Works and our manufacturing teams. It’s a testament to the innovation, craftsmanship, and pride that our employees bring to work every day. This recognition celebrates not just a product, but the people and processes behind it highlighting our commitment to excellence and our deep roots in Iowa’s manufacturing legacy. We’ve operated from Ankeny, Iowa since 1947 and we plan to continue building world-class equipment for our customers here for a very long time.
How do you think this kind of recognition highlights the strength and creativity of Iowa’s manufacturing sector?
This recognition shines a spotlight on the ingenuity and world-class capabilities that exist right here in Iowa. It proves that innovation isn’t confined to Silicon Valley or major coastal cities. It’s thriving in the heartland.
Iowa’s manufacturers are solving global challenges, building cutting-edge equipment, and pushing the boundaries of what’s possible in ag and industrial technology.
While John Deere has long been synonymous with powerful machinery, we continue to elevate that legacy. Our iconic hard iron is now infused with cutting-edge technology, transforming it into a force of innovation.
What makes Iowa such a hub for advanced manufacturing and innovation, especially in ag and heavy equipment?
Iowa’s strength lies in its unique combination of agricultural heritage, skilled workforce, and strong infrastructure. The state has long been a leader in ag innovation, and that legacy continues with advanced manufacturing technologies like automation, precision ag, and AI integration. Proximity to customers, suppliers, and research institutions also fuels rapid development and deployment of new solutions.
In what ways does being located in Iowa shape your manufacturing strategy, supply chain logistics, or workforce development?
Being in Iowa allows us to stay close to both our customers and our supply chain partners. The central location supports efficient logistics and distribution, while the strong community ties help us attract and retain top talent. Iowa’s emphasis on workforce development, through technical schools, apprenticeships, and partnerships, aligns perfectly with our long-term strategy for innovation and growth.
What would you tell someone who thinks you have to live and work on the coasts to create something “cool”?
Innovation doesn’t have a zip code. Some of the most impactful, high-tech, and cool products in the world are being built right here in Iowa. If you want to work on meaningful challenges, use cutting-edge technology, and be part of something bigger than yourself, you don’t need to head to the coasts.
Innovation happens between the long stretches of highway and farm fields too!
For someone considering relocating to Iowa for a manufacturing career, what would you say are the biggest benefits—professionally and personally?
Professionally, Iowa offers access to advanced manufacturing careers with global impact, opportunities for growth, and a supportive ecosystem of education and training. Personally, you’ll find a high quality of life, affordable living, strong communities, and a great place to raise a family. It’s a place where you can build both a rich career and a flourishing personal life.
What kinds of programs does John Deere offer to support your talent pipeline (i.e. Registered Apprenticeship programs)?
John Deere invests heavily in workforce development through a variety of programs, including the registered apprenticeship program, salaried and wage internships, Skillbridge USA (a Department of Defense program), and early talent development initiatives. We partner with local high schools, community colleges, universities, and the military to provide hands-on experience and career pathways in manufacturing, engineering, and skilled trades.
We host hundreds of students every year via our tour program, exposing them to career opportunities some may have never dreamed of before. We are also heavily involved with the iJAG and Upward Bound programs in Iowa. Both programs focus on students who face barriers to success whether economic, academic, or social.
How does John Deere leverage relationships with educational institutions to support goals of innovation or workforce training?
In 2019, we opened the John Deere Technology Innovation Center – Ames Lab in the Iowa State University (ISU) Research Park. This has allowed us to more closely partner with the university to research advanced ag technologies while also contributing to talent development. Our relationship with Iowa State goes back more than 20 years.
More recently, we launched the John Deere Scholarship Program with the University of Iowa. The program is based on financial need and provides college prep services to Davenport Community High School students, 20 of whom will be selected annually over a six-year period to receive full ride scholarships to the University of Iowa. Each year this program helps 20 students from the Davenport, Iowa, area, in need of financial assistance, attend college. Our goal is to provide students with opportunities that will prepare them to be future leaders in our communities.
