Made In Iowa: Building Iowa’s Innovation Pipeline, One Question at a Time

What does a science center have to do with Iowa’s future workforce, manufacturing, and innovation economy? In this episode of Made in Iowa, Julie Pelds shares how the Science Center of Iowa is far more than a destination for families—it’s a launchpad for curiosity, problem-solving, and the skills Iowa employers need next. From hands-on learning to immersive experiences, the Science Center is helping young people (and adults) see themselves as engineers, innovators, and critical thinkers. Julie also talks about the power of partnerships—how industry, education, and community can work together to make learning tangible, relevant, and inspiring. This conversation connects the dots between STEM education and Iowa’s long-term competitiveness, reminding us that the future workforce isn’t built overnight—it’s sparked early, nurtured intentionally, and strengthened when business and community step up together.