Marion Economic Development Corporation

?? Employers, we need your help! With refugee resettlement services suspended and resources limited, CMC is urgently helping refugees and immigrants secure jobs—but we need employer partners! ? Immediate Need: 30 newly arrived refugees must find jobs by March to sustain themselves and their families. In total, we’re seeking employment for 70 refugee and immigrant clients. ?? Seeking entry-level positions in factories, warehouses, hospitality, food service, and more! ?? Job seekers are ready to work! They have resumes, access to transportation, and are enrolled in workplace English classes. ?? Language is not a barrier! Clients have varying levels of English proficiency—some speak it conversationally, while others may need a translator, but they have tools to help with communication. ?? Partner with us! If you or someone you know is hiring, contact our main line at (319) 363-4993 or email Cecilia Bwanakweri at [email protected].

Behind the MEDCO Board Room: Meet Ryan J. Waller! ?? With 24 years of experience in local government, Ryan Waller is dedicated to making Marion the best place in Iowa to raise a family and grow a business. Since joining Team Marion as City Manager in November 2021, Ryan and his teammates have led with a commitment to the four C’s—communication, collaboration, community engagement, and customer service, helping to build a culture of accountability and excellence. Beyond his leadership day to day, Ryan is a passionate philanthropist, giving countless hours to causes that strengthen our region. He serves on the board for the University of Iowa’s School of Planning and Public Affairs and recently joined the board of YPN (Young Parents Network), a nonprofit providing critical programs to families across the region. Ryan’s career in local government has taken him through professionally managed communities in Illinois, including Highland Park, Lake Bluff, and Lake County, before serving nearly six years as City Manager of Indianola, Iowa. He holds degrees in political science and public administration from the University of Iowa and Northern Illinois University. A devoted Hawkeye fan and lover of all things Chicago sports, Ryan enjoys cheering on his favorite teams. He and his wife Elizabeth are the proud parents of Hayden and Emma. “???? ???? ?????????? ???? ?????????? ???? ???? ?? ???????????? ???? ???????? ????????????. ?? ?????????? ?????????? ???? ???????????? ?????? ?????? ????????????, ?????????????? ???????????? ?????????? ???? ?????? ?????????? ????????????. ?????????? ???? ?????????????? ???? ?????? ?????????? ???? ???????? ?????? ?????? ?????????????????? ???? ???????????? ???? ?????? ???????? ??????????????????. ?????? ?? ?????????? ?????????? ???? ???????? ???????? ?????????? ???? ?????? ?????????? ???? ?????????????? ???????? ?????? ?????????? ???????? ??????????.” Stay tuned for more of our Behind the MEDCO Board Room series, where we highlight the leaders shaping Marion’s future. Let’s keep reaching higher together, Marion! ??

We were excited to host the Construction Professionals Roundtable this morning, bringing together industry leaders for a discussion on the challenges and opportunities shaping the future of construction. Attendees engaged in conversations on workforce development, industry-specific innovation, and emerging trends. The energy in the room made it clear that collaboration is key to strengthening the industry. A huge thank you to everyone who participated and contributed as well as Ohnward Bank & Trust for sponsoring. Your input helps drive progress in our community and beyond! If you were there, what were your biggest takeaways from the event? Drop them in the comments!

Happy Valentine's Day from our team! ?? Today, we celebrate our vibrant community and the businesses and individuals that make it thrive. Whether you're enjoying dinner, attending a local event, or supporting local businesses, we hope your day is filled with joy and connection. Let's continue to build a prosperous community together!

Behind the MEDCO Board Room: Meet Brian Rosteck, CCIM! ?? “???????????? ?????? ???????? ???????? ???????? ?????????? ???? ?????????? ???????? ???? ????????. ??’?? ?????????????? ?????? ?????? ???????????? ????’???? ???????? ?????? ???????? ?????????????? ???? ???????????????? ???????? ???????????? ???? ?????? ???????????? ???????? ???????? ????????????!” From business leader to commercial real estate expert, Brian Rosteck has been shaping eastern Iowa’s economic landscape for decades! With over 20 years of client-focused business and sales experience, Rosteck joined Skogman Commercial Realty in 2009, bringing expertise and passion to the field. His commercial real estate journey began in 2005 as a property manager for a multi-state commercial real estate group. Since then, he has worked with national and local clients—including J. Rettenmaier USA, Wells Fargo Bank NA, Casey’s Convenience Store, and the City of Marion—on land and building sales, investment properties, redevelopment, and leasing. As a long-time resident of the area, Rosteck is passionate about the city’s growth and economic vitality. As a Certified Commercial Investment Member (CCIM), he continues to drive impactful developments that contribute to Marion’s thriving business community. Stay tuned for more of our Behind the MEDCO Board Room series, where we highlight the leaders serving on our board of directors and shaping Marion’s future. Let’s keep reaching higher together, Marion! ?? #marioniowa #marionreachhigher

?? Behind the MEDCO Board Room: Meet Nick AbouAssaly! ?? ? From attorney to mayor to community champion, Nick AbouAssaly wears many hats – and he wears them well! As a partner at Simmons Perrine Moyer Bergman PLC and head of the real estate law department, Nick brings expertise and vision to everything he does. ? Since becoming Mayor of Marion in 2016, Nick has led with passion, putting Marion on the map as one of America’s most livable cities, earning awards like the Iowa League of Cities’ All-Star Community and Community Playmaker’s 2024 National Community of the Year! ? Recognized as one of the Corridor’s most influential leaders and the Iowa Mayor of the Year, Nick’s dedication to growth, innovation, and quality of life is unmatched. ? “??’?? ?????????? ???? ??????????’?? ???????? ???? ???????? ???????????? ???? ???? ?????? ?????????? ???????????? ???? ?????????? ?? ?????????????? ??????????????????. ?????? ?????? ???? ?????? ?????? ??????????!” Stay tuned! This is just the beginning of our ???????????? ?????? ?????????? ?????????? ???????? series, where we’ll spotlight the incredible leaders shaping our community in the months ahead. ? Let’s keep reaching higher together, Marion!

Exciting leadership updates on the MEDCO Board! We’re thrilled to announce Eric S. as our new Board Chair and Emily Kaiser as the incoming Chair. Both bring exceptional experience and passion for driving economic growth in Marion and beyond. ?? Schmitt, President of Rapids & Affiliates, has been a MEDCO board member since 2019. A Cedar Rapids native and University of St. Thomas alum, Eric has led his family business to new heights while championing local economic development. ?? Kaiser, Manager of Community Development at Alliant Energy, joined the board in 2022. With expertise in economic development and utility operations, Emily is dedicated to supporting businesses and strengthening our community. Read more: https://lnkd.in/gXQn3a9K

?????????? ??????????????????: ?? ???????????? ?????????????????????? ?????? ???????????????? ???????? ??-????????-???????? ???? ?????????????? ???????????? ???????????????? Do you have a 3 year old child? Linn-Mar Community Schools has a new opportunity to support high school students who are pursuing a career in education. High school students in the new Exploring Education Venture Academics course will be taking college coursework focused on child development and teaching. As part of their learning, they will welcome 3-year-olds two mornings a week into a bright and inviting learning space specifically designed for early childhood engagement. Under the leadership of lead instructor, Laure Vaske, high school students will lead crafts, games, STEM activities, and basic math and literacy concepts. This experience is called Early Explorers, and you can learn more here: https://lnkd.in/gsBp9DQ7. 3-year-olds may participate in Early Explorers free of cost and families do not need to reside in the Linn-Mar district to participate. Spots are limited and available until mid-February, visit the link below to register your child. Early Explorers Registration: https://lnkd.in/gi8atHk5

?? Calling All HR Professionals! ?? https://lnkd.in/gUA7dqPN Join us for our next HR Roundtable—a casual, collaborative space to network, share ideas, and spark inspiration! ?? Topic: Perks at Work ?? Let’s swap creative ways to celebrate holidays, recognize employees, and build team connections. ? Why Attend? Walk away with fresh ideas and practical tips to boost workplace engagement! Bring your energy, and your best ideas—let’s create amazing workplaces together. See you there! ??

As the year comes to a close, we want to take a moment to thank you for being part of our community. From all of us at MEDCO, we wish you and your loved ones a joyful holiday season and a thriving?New Year!