Author: Cathy Essick
Corporate Responsibility
Published:
Monday, 27 Jul 2026
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Image caption: Ben Hektoen, Operations Manager at New Leader Manufacturing, recently joined the Junior Achievement of Eastern Iowa Corridor Community Impact Board. Through his leadership and commitment to workforce development, Ben is helping advance opportunities that prepare students for work, life, and economic mobility across Eastern Iowa.
Junior Achievement of Eastern Iowa is proud to welcome Ben Hektoen to the Corridor Community Impact Board.
As Operations Manager at New Leader Manufacturing, Ben understands the importance of preparing today's students for tomorrow's workforce. His experience leading teams, improving operations, and developing talent gives him a unique perspective on the skills young people need to succeed after graduation.
Ben believes that strong communities begin with strong educational opportunities. That's one of the reasons he chose to become involved with Junior Achievement.
"Junior Achievement gives students opportunities to explore careers, build financial literacy, and develop the confidence they'll need in the future. Those experiences make a lasting difference."
On the Corridor Community Impact Board, Ben looks forward to helping strengthen connections between local employers, educators, and students while expanding access to programs that prepare young people for work and life.
As Junior Achievement continues building pathways to economic mobility for students across Eastern Iowa, leaders like Ben play an important role in ensuring every student has opportunities to discover what's possible.
We're grateful to have Ben's leadership, expertise, and passion helping shape the future of Junior Achievement of Eastern Iowa. Welcome to the team!
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