David Cook, in his early months as president of Iowa State University (ISU), has been actively engaging with nearly 40 communities across Iowa to understand the local workforce concerns. A significant issue raised is the challenge of attracting and retaining workers. Cook emphasizes the importance of connecting ISU students with job opportunities in rural areas, stating that his mission is to align academic programs with workforce needs.
He launched a “Listen, Learn, Lead” tour covering 1,600 miles and interacting with over 2,500 individuals, highlighting ISU’s potential in shaping Iowa’s economy. He believes their initiatives should focus on applied learning, internships, and enhancing the visibility of career opportunities beyond major cities.
With a backdrop of declining federal research funding, Cook aims to pivot ISU’s focus on areas like agriculture, health care, manufacturing, and technology. He points to a recent $15 million award from the National Science Foundation, aimed at innovation in biomass conversion and biomanufacturing, as a step in the right direction.
During an interview, Cook discussed his approach to improving ISU’s appeal amidst increasing competition for students, emphasizing the importance of relevant curricular offerings and lifelong learning opportunities. He stressed the need for a holistic education that prepares students for a rapidly changing job market.
In the rapid-fire segment of the interview, Cook expressed enjoyment in meeting students at ISU and highlighted a strong commitment to listening and surrounding himself with capable team members. He sees this presidency as his last role before retirement, aiming to leave a significant impact on education and workforce development in Iowa.
