Barry W. Schaffter

Engages in the manufacturing and distribution of materials handling equipment

Functions as a College/University

The Iowa Business Council is a nonpartisan, nonprofit organization established in 1985, comprising 22 chief executives from Iowa’s largest employers across all 99 counties. The private company is based in Des Moines, IA. These member companies collectively employ over 156,000 Iowans and represent industries including energy, manufacturing, retail, healthcare, and transportation. The council promotes thought leadership, research, advocacy, and corporate citizenship, conducting initiatives such as the quarterly economic outlook survey and the annual competitive dashboard to provide insights on economic trends and assess Iowa’s standing in areas like economic growth, workforce and education, governance, health and wellness, and demographics and diversity. The council focuses on workforce development, diversity, equity and inclusion, population growth, and improving Iowa’s economic climate, and collaborates with legislators and educational institutions through the Business Education Alliance to align business and education sectors for workforce needs and economic development.

The Living History Farms is a museum that features historically accurate sites including the 1700 Ioway Indian farm, 1850 pioneer farm, 1876 town of Walnut Hill, and 1900 horse-powered farm, each showcasing period-appropriate farming techniques, community life, and seasonal activities with on-site interpreters. The non-profit company is based in Urbandale, IA. The museum offers a wide range of programs and experiences for diverse audiences, including K-12 schools, homeschool families, youth organizations, adult groups, and the general public. Educational offerings include school field trips, homeschool programs aligned with social studies standards, historic skills classes, day camps, and literacy programs for preschoolers. Special events include historic dinners and teas that recreate meals and social settings from the 19th and early 20th centuries, as well as interactive experiences such as mansion mysteries. Membership options provide benefits such as free admission, early registration, and program discounts, with various levels available including combo memberships with other local institutions. The museum encourages community engagement through volunteer opportunities, donations, and partnerships with foundations and organizations.

Manufactures and distributes farm machinery and equipment

Manufactures crop harvesting and Care equipment