Melissa is an exceptional partner in regional economic development. Her ability to coordinate seamlessly with Alliant Energy ensures that Winnebago and Worth counties are always positioned for growth. She is proactive, deeply knowledgeable, and highly collaborative- bringing her into a project early is a guarantee that things will move forward efficiently and successfully.
— Chad Hansen , Alliant Energy
MidAmerican Energy’s Kathryn Kunert Elected ABI Board Chair
9 Jul 2026
News
The Iowa Association of Business and Industry (ABI) welcomes Kathryn Kunert, Vice President Economic Connections and Integration at MidAmerican Energy, as Chair of its Board of Directors for the 2026-27 term.
A native of Mason City and graduate of the University of Northern Iowa, Kunert has spent three decades with MidAmerican Energy, where she leads initiatives that strengthen relationships between business, communities, and economic development partners across Iowa.
Kunert has served in leadership roles with numerous statewide organizations, including the Iowa Governor's STEM Advisory Council, Iowa Innovation Corporation, the Future Ready Iowa Alliance, and the Cultivation Corridor. She also previously chaired the Greater Des Moines Partnership Board of Directors and has been recognized by the Business Record as a Woman of Influence, Forty Under 40, and Forty Under 40 Alumnus of the Year.
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