Technology Association of Iowa

Board Member Spotlight: Dave Ashton, Chief Information Officer, Holmes Murphy Dave Ashton is a transformative technology leader guiding Holmes Murphy’s IT strategy to meet evolving business needs. With nearly three decades of experience in financial services and insurtech—including three years at Holmes Murphy and a long tenure at Principal Financial Group—Dave brings a forward-thinking approach to modernizing IT and challenging the status quo. As Chair of TAI’s CIO Roundtable, he leads cross-industry dialogue on the key issues facing tech leaders today. We’re proud to recognize Dave’s leadership on the TAI Board of Directors and his commitment to advancing Iowa’s tech ecosystem. TAI’s Board of Directors comprises Iowa’s most innovative technology leaders, who focus on positioning Iowa as a leader in innovation, talent, and economic growth. #DrivingInnovation

Welcome Dexian as a new TAI member! Dexian stands at the forefront of talent + technology solutions with a presence spanning more than 70 locations worldwide. As one of the largest technology and professional staffing companies, Dexian combines over 30 years of industry expertise with cutting-edge technologies to deliver comprehensive global services and support. Learn more: http://xmrrwallet.com/cmx.pdexian.com/ Join TAI: https://xmrrwallet.com/cmx.plnkd.in/g3w-nJ-M #DrivingInnovation

Next week, we’re kicking off TAI’s first Startup Sessions — a casual meetup for Iowa’s entrepreneurs, operators, and early-stage builders. Got something in the works? No pitches. No pressure. Share your ideas, products, and startups with others who get it. RSVP Today: https://xmrrwallet.com/cmx.plnkd.in/gcMjuRWN Event Details: 🗓️ Thursday, August 14, 2025 🕓 4:00 - 6:00 PM 📍 Big Grove Brewery – Des Moines 🎟️ Drink tickets + apps provided #DrivingInnovation #StartupSessions

⏳ Last Call: Prometheus Awards Nominations Close TOMORROW! ⏳ Time’s almost up to nominate and recognize the innovators, teams, and leaders driving Iowa tech forward. From AI and UX to Leadership and Data Solutions, 𝗻𝗼𝗺𝗶𝗻𝗮𝘁𝗶𝗼𝗻𝘀 𝗮𝗿𝗲 𝗳𝗿𝗲𝗲 𝗮𝗻𝗱 𝘁𝗮𝗸𝗲 𝗷𝘂𝘀𝘁 𝗺𝗶𝗻𝘂𝘁𝗲𝘀 𝘁𝗼 𝘀𝘂𝗯𝗺𝗶𝘁. 🏆 Don’t let your company’s hard work go unseen. 🔗 Explore all categories + submit now: https://xmrrwallet.com/cmx.plnkd.in/gk-7jEVr Need a little extra time? Email jessica@technologyiowa.org. Presented by UHY-US #PrometheusAwards #DrivingInnovation

Help us welcome the Science Center of Iowa to TAI! Located in Downtown Des Moines, the Science Center of Iowa inspires lifelong STEM learning. It offers an innovative, ever-evolving environment with six interactive experience platforms where visitors can explore, experiment, and discover. Learn more: http://xmrrwallet.com/cmx.psciowa.org/ Join TAI: https://xmrrwallet.com/cmx.plnkd.in/g3w-nJ-M #DrivingInnovation

Iowa’s tech community is #DrivingInnovation —on and off the tee. ⛳️ What a day at the Iowa Tech Open – Central Iowa! Golf, connections, and friendly competition filled the greens at Glen Oaks Country Club. Thanks to our sponsors for making it happen! Don’t miss future events—subscribe here: https://xmrrwallet.com/cmx.plnkd.in/gMWtWB-b #DrivingInnovation #IowaTechOpen

Thank you to all the sponsors backing the Iowa Tech Open - Central Iowa today! ⛳️ Lunch Sponsor: T-Mobile For Business Cart Sponsor: Bankers Trust Beverage Cart Sponsor: YASH Technologies Hole Sponsors: Aureon  |  Basepoint Building Automations  |   Carrier Access, Inc.   |  Check Point Software  |   Choice Solutions  |  Google Fiber  |  Heartland Business Systems  |  Palmer Group  |  Paragon IT Professionals  |   ProCircular  |  Riverside Technologies, Inc. (RTI)  |  Robert Half  |  Segra  |  Slalom  |  Source Allies  |  TeamSoft  |  Trility Consulting  |  Turnberry Solutions See you on the course!🏌️ #DrivingInnovation

⏳ Final Days to Nominate for Prometheus Awards – Deadline is August 7! ⏳ Celebrate the best in Iowa tech by nominating for outstanding work in AI, UX, Data Solutions, Innovation, Leadership, and more at the 2025 Prometheus Awards. Nominations are FREE!  Explore all award categories and submit today! 🔗 https://xmrrwallet.com/cmx.plnkd.in/gk-7jEVr Presented by UHY-US #PrometheusAwards #DrivingInnovation

Board Member Spotlight: Jason Katcher, MBA, Senior Vice President & Chief Information Officer, ITA Group, Inc. Chair, TAI Board of Directors Jason is a strategic technology leader with a proven track record of driving business transformation across industries. As SVP & CIO at ITA Group, he leads with vision—empowering teams, advancing innovation, and aligning technology strategy to business growth. With more than nine years at ITA Group, Jason has consistently delivered creative, tech-forward solutions to complex business challenges. He’s known not only for his leadership and operational expertise, but also for his commitment to building a more inclusive tech community and championing the next generation of Iowa’s technology leaders. We’re proud to recognize Jason’s service as the 2025 Chair of the Technology Association of Iowa’s Board of Directors and his ongoing dedication to strengthening Iowa’s tech ecosystem. TAI’s Board of Directors comprises Iowa’s most innovative technology leaders, who focus on positioning Iowa as a leader in innovation, talent, and economic growth. #DrivingInnovation

From leading up to leveling up, TAI alumni dug in for a day of learning and growth at ITA Group, Inc. HQ. ITC alumni focused on how to “lead up” and work across leadership styles—adapting approaches, breaking down differences, and strengthening relationships. Thanks to Danielle Brommer (Lean TECHniques) for sharing her insights. ITLI alumni heard from a panel on investing in yourself through ongoing education—degrees, certifications, and credentials. Thank you to panelists Nathan Kerns (Fareway Stores, Inc.) and Boris Mrkajic (Robert Half) for their perspectives. A final note of gratitude to our generous hosts at ITA Group, Inc. and to alumni leaders Brooke Erickson and Stephen Morgan for guiding the conversation. Learn more about TAI Programs: ITC → https://xmrrwallet.com/cmx.plnkd.in/gP8bdVKd  ITLI → https://xmrrwallet.com/cmx.plnkd.in/ge_heMAj Supported by Casey's and Sukup Manufacturing Co. #DrivingInnovation #TAIAlumniNetwork