Krista Tedrow

Executive director, South Central Iowa Local Workforce Development Board

Age: 32

Spouse: Aaron Tedrow 

Children: Amelia Tedrow (5)

Reasons she is a Forty: Krista is known for her heart and passion to serve. She inspires the people around her to dream and empowers them to make those dreams a reality. As an innovator and entrepreneur, she has demonstrated how business, education, and local, state and federal government can work together to advance equity and economic prosperity for all. She founded a consulting firm, tech company and nonprofit all centered on equity and access for marginalized communities. She serves on iJAG (Iowa Jobs for America’s Graduates) and the Governor’s Empower Rural Iowa task force in addition to several local boards and represents Iowa on a national level.

What are your goals in your role at your company? Eliminate disparities in the workforce by transforming systems and policies so all Iowans have access to the resources necessary to pursue quality jobs and advance in careers. Ensuring all of Iowa’s businesses have a qualified workforce.

What are your goals for your community involvement? See decisions made about funding, policy and programs informed by the voice of those they are designed to serve. Any platform I am given is viewed as an opportunity to amplify the voice of underrepresented and underserved communities.

What's your biggest passion, and why? Showing leaders how to empower and equip youths by inviting the next generation to the table as partners and decision-makers. I love pursuing equitable opportunities for all youths in Iowa through education, advocacy, innovation and systems transformation.

What is it that drives you? The first decade of my life was spent in and out of foster care. I’ve experienced how systems crush, exploit and dehumanize. Successful pursuits eliminate disparities, advance equity and create communities where all people know they are loved, feel they belong and fulfill their potential.

What are your future aspirations? It’s almost impossible to get a job or enroll in a workforce program without a Social Security card or birth certificate. I would like to launch another tech startup to make individuals’ vital records electronically accessible and secure. I would also love to be a TEDx speaker.

Three hobbies: I love spending time with my daughter and my husband. We like riding bikes and exploring amazing places across Iowa. I love reading and writing and am currently writing my first book. Board games are high on my list too, especially Catan! 

Fun fact: Krista is ordained and a notary. So, if you need someone to officiate nuptials, speak at faith-based events, or if you need a document certified to make it legal or official, give her a call.

One word to describe you: Persistent.

What is your wish for the Central Iowa business community? For businesses to collaborate with local workforce development boards so we can supply the talent pipeline employers need. Collectively, we can create an Iowa where all people have quality jobs and businesses thrive.

What's one piece of advice that you would give to a young professional? Know your purpose, who you serve and your values. Be you and stay curious. Believe there are seats at many tables meant for you. You belong. Use your seat to amplify the voice of those who aren’t represented. If there’s no seat at the table, bringing a folding chair is always an option.

What is one issue you would like to see Central Iowa leaders address? We should be advancing economic progress for all Iowans — not just for those with money and resources. Systemic inequities persist in Iowa, from workforce and education to health care and housing security. Employers are uniquely positioned to eliminate disparities for underserved and marginalized communities. Look at hiring data, discrimination claim stats, salary tables, retention numbers and diversity policies to inform decisions, drive impact and measure outcomes.

Anything else you haven't addressed that people must know about you? I love providing professional workshops, continuing education training and keynotes about leadership, governance, workforce, education, entrepreneurship and youth.