Month: October 2024

Made in the Cedar Valley: SciPlay’s Story

The Cedar Valley is full of surprises, including a growing hub of game development. In this Made in the Cedar Valley series, we’re featuring SciPlay, a company that’s been making waves in the world of mobile gaming right here in our own backyard. From a small startup to a global developer and publisher of free-to-play games, SciPlay’s journey is an inspiring example of the Cedar Valley’s innovative spirit.

The Story of SciPlay

Originally founded as Genesis Communications in a small Waterloo studio, SciPlay began as a passion project by a group of recent college grads. Driven by a desire to make video games, they took on an ambitious goal in a place where few others were doing the same. Starting out with an amusement park simulator game, the young team soon found themselves pivoting toward a new and untapped genre: slot machines.

The early years saw the development of CD-ROM-based slot games, where players could purchase new slot content for a one-time fee. As the gaming world evolved, so did SciPlay. The company embraced the shift from physical CD-ROMs to digital platforms, making it easier for players to enjoy their favorite games anytime, anywhere.

Today, SciPlay has grown from its humble beginnings into a free-to-play mobile gaming global powerhouse, employing over 800 people across the world. Despite its growth, the company remains deeply rooted in Cedar Falls, where its flagship game, Jackpot Party, is developed.

The Success of Jackpot Party

Jackpot Party, SciPlay’s number-one social casino game, launched in 2012. Known for its authentic slot machine content and mechanics, Jackpot Party offers players a real casino experience from the comfort of their mobile devices. The game has consistently ranked as a top 10 downloaded app, year after year, making it a key driver of the company’s success and growth.

What makes Jackpot Party such a hit? Chief Technology Officer Forrest Stowe attributes it to “a little bit of luck and a lot of care and attention.” Jackpot Party’s enduring popularity is fueled by a combination of authentic slot content that mirrors the real casino experience and an emphasis on player engagement through LiveOps programs and personalized features.

Shaping the Gaming World Right Here in the Cedar Valley

At SciPlay’s Cedar Falls studio, innovation comes to life in many forms:

Jackpot Party App: This flagship game continues to be a hit, consistently ranking among the top 10 mobile downloads on Google and Apple’s app stores. With its exciting slot gameplay, engaging bonus rounds, and regular updates, Jackpot Party keeps players entertained.

Casino Slot Games: SciPlay is known for its innovative and player-centric LiveOps which are the driving force behind hits like Jackpot Party Casino Slots and Quick Hit Slots, another top game. LiveOps are regular updates and events that introduce new features and challenges. LiveOps keep players engaged, generate excitement, and encourage player participation.

In-House Sound & Music Design: SciPlay’s creative process goes beyond visuals. Their in-house music studio produces custom soundtracks and sound effects that add depth and excitement to gameplay.

Where Culture Fuels Success

The culture at SciPlay is the fuel that drives their success. The team believes in breaking molds and bringing diverse talent together to craft memorable experiences. SciPlay’s work environment is built on inclusion, creativity, and plenty of collaboration.

As Kimber Dall, SVP of Human Resources, puts it: “We really want people to come here as they are, with open arms of acceptance and clear communication. Everyone here has high drive, high energy, and thrives on working together. It’s that spirit of teamwork that makes people excited to come to work each day.”

SciPlay’s employee resource groups add to the fun, creating spaces for community, connection, and culture-building activities. From celebrating different cultures to advocating for change, these groups give employees the chance to shape the company’s culture and future.

The company is committed to helping its employees learn and grow. “We have invested in different learning and development initiatives and training opportunities. We’re seeing people progress through the organization, whether it’s linear, or they’re making a drastic change.” Kimber shares. “One colleague started in accounting and is now a project manager on one of our games. It’s all about creating opportunities for people to explore what excites them.”

Rooted in the Cedar Valley

SciPlay’s influence goes beyond gaming as it actively supports the community that helped shape its journey. From partnering with local organizations like Habitat for Humanity to supporting Cedar Valley Pride, SciPlay is dedicated to making a positive impact.

The company also prioritizes local talent by collaborating with area universities and offering internships that often turn into full-time roles. It’s all part of SciPlay’s commitment to grow talent, strengthen the local economy, and create lasting career opportunities right here at home.

SciPlay’s Next Chapter

SciPlay is constantly evolving, with new projects that aim to expand its game lineup and improve player experiences. But, even as the company explores new genres and technologies, it remains true to its Cedar Valley roots.

Through engaging games, a strong community focus, and a culture that values talent and fun, SciPlay truly embodies what it means to be Made in the Cedar Valley.

For more stories of success from businesses that call the Cedar Valley home, stay tuned to our series and visit growcedarvalley.com.

Hear from the Candidates: Iowa State Senator for District 38

Advocacy is a central part of Grow Cedar Valley’s mission to support economic development in the region. As part of these efforts, we reached out to Iowa Senate candidates to understand their perspectives on key economic issues impacting the Cedar Valley. Below, we’ve provided their unedited responses side by side. You can read the full set of responses for each district by visiting the corresponding blog.

Please note that the views expressed by the candidates do not reflect the views of Grow Cedar Valley. As a nonpartisan organization, we do not endorse any candidate or political party.

Economic Development and Business Growth

What federal or state-level policies do you support that would promote economic growth in our region, and how would you advocate for these in your role?

Eric Giddens (D)

Incumbent

I am supportive of many of our economic policies at the state level. I am supportive of Iowa Economic Development Authority’s Manufacturing 4.0 program, workforce training programs at our community colleges, trail funding, High-Quality Jobs Program, funding our economic development programs at our Regents Universities (especially UNI), federal housing tax credits, state Workforce Housing tax credits, and Iowa’s historic tax credit program. I am constantly working across the aisle to advocate and support these programs promoting economic growth.

Dave Sires (R)

Candidate

As a small business owner, I’ll bring real world experience to the State Senate. I’ll support policies that attract economic growth and development such as lowering taxes and decreasing regulations, to unleash entrepreneurship.

How would you work to secure federal/state funding or grants for infrastructure and economic development projects in our area?

Eric Giddens (D)

Incumbent

I work to create and maintain good relationships with all of our local, state, and federal partners so that I can have open lines of communication and identify opportunities that are available.

Dave Sires (R)

Candidate

No Response Received

What do you see as the keys to growing our local economy, and if elected how can you help?

Eric Giddens (D)

Incumbent

The Cedar Valley area is a leader among Iowa communities for innovation and quality-of-life projects. We have a deep history in the agriculture and manufacturing industries. The only way to weather the economy’s ups and downs is to help our businesses innovate. I vow to continue advocating for the state to partner with local leaders and businesses to ensure our businesses can innovate. We must continue focusing on projects that improve our housing quality and quantity. In addition, we need to make sure childcare is affordable and accessible for more Iowa families.

Dave Sires (R)

Candidate

No Response Received

Workforce Development and Education

What specific actions will you take to improve workforce development programs and align them with the needs of businesses in our state/region?

Eric Giddens (D)

Incumbent

I appreciate the collaborative relationships we have in the Cedar Valley. Businesses and local officials work well together. I will continue to advocate for state support for the educational and training programs that are necessary to help industries and businesses in our area thrive.

Dave Sires (R)

Candidate

You can’t talk about workforce development without the issue of childcare. The two are tied together. I’d like to see more progress made on access to quality, affordable child care. One idea is to incentivize employers to provide child care or child care stipends.

How would you support educational institutions, including community colleges and vocational schools, in preparing students for the jobs of tomorrow?

Eric Giddens (D)

Incumbent

Iowa has a long history of bipartisan support for worker training programs and many of those programs are housed in our community college system. I have been a strong supporter of Iowa’s community colleges as they partner with local businesses and respond to changing local workforce needs.

Higher education in Iowa, like across the nation, has been dealing with general funding challenges. I have and will continue to push for increased state funding for community colleges to enhance programs and expand grants that help support students pursuing careers in high-demand fields. Our community colleges are also one of the best places for continuing education programs that help workers upskill or reskill as industries evolve or lay off workers. This has become increasingly important considering the recently announced layoffs at many Iowa agriculture and manufacturing businesses.

By focusing on these areas, an Iowa legislator can help ensure that the state’s educational institutions are well-equipped to prepare students for the evolving job market, driving economic growth and improving the quality of life for Iowans.

Dave Sires (R)

Candidate

Additionally, I’d like to see money for students studying in the most-needed professions and more apprenticeship programs.

What is your stance on funding and support for Regents institutions, such as the University of Northern Iowa, and how do you see their role in contributing to the state’s educational and economic landscape?

Eric Giddens (D)

Incumbent

The University of Northern Iowa plays a key role in both the educational and economic landscape of Iowa and I am very supportive of increasing the state funding for higher education institutions. Unfortunately, the Legislature has underfunded our public universities over the last decade and that has increased the cost for students and their families. UNI provides a high-quality education for its students, 90 percent of which are Iowans – more than any other Regent university. We cannot have higher education become financially out of reach for most Iowans. That would be a detriment to our state’s economy and future.

UNI’s commitment to teacher education is particularly important right now. UNI has a long-standing reputation for producing some of the best educators in the state, which directly benefits Iowa’s K-12 schools and their communities. By training the next generation of high-quality teachers, UNI ensures that Iowa’s children receive a great education that will set them up for future success in school and careers.

UNI acts as a catalyst for regional growth, adding $1.6 billion in income to the Iowa economy in 2022. The university supports local businesses through partnerships and helps drive innovation. UNI’s Business and Community Services (BCS) helped over 3,700 unique businesses, communities, and local government clients this past year (source).

Graduates from UNI stay in Iowa more than any other state university and in doing so – contribute to the state’s workforce and economy. The University of Northern Iowa is vital to Iowa’s educational and economic landscape. By providing necessary funding for UNI, we are not only investing in Iowa students but also the economic future of Iowa.

Dave Sires (R)

Candidate

No Response Received

Legislative Priorities and Governance

What are your top legislative priorities related to economic development, and how will these benefit our region specifically?

Eric Giddens (D)

Incumbent

I feel that the Cedar Valley region has done a great job of making the area one of the top places in the state to live. To take advantage of all of that work, we need to invest in housing to make housing more affordable. We also need more childcare opportunities for families.

Dave Sires (R)

Candidate

In the State Senate, my priorities are lowering taxes, making sure we continue to have good schools, and ensuring there is available housing to attract businesses to the area.

How do you plan to work across the aisle to pass legislation that supports economic growth and addresses the needs of the business community?

Eric Giddens (D)

Incumbent

I take great pride in working with legislators regardless of political party to help advance the interests of our region. I will continue to do so and find opportunities to help our communities grow and fight for the needs of the Cedar Valley.

Dave Sires (R)

Candidate

As a lifelong Iowa resident, business owner, and former city councilman, I’ve proven I know how to work across the aisle to get the job done for my constituents.

For more information, please contact:

Steve Firman

Director of Government Affairs

steve@growcedarvalley.com

Hear from the Candidates: Iowa House of Representatives

Advocacy is a central part of Grow Cedar Valley’s mission to support economic development in the region. As part of these efforts, we reached out to Iowa House of Representatives to understand their perspectives on key economic issues impacting the Cedar Valley.

Grow Cedar Valley received a joint response from Iowa House Representatives Bob Kressig (District 75), Jerome Amos Jr. (District 62), and Timi Brown-Powers (District 61). Below, we’ve provided their unedited responses.

Please note that the views expressed by the candidates do not reflect the views of Grow Cedar Valley. As a nonpartisan organization, we do not endorse any candidate or political party.

Economic Development and Business Growth

What federal or state-level policies do you support that would promote economic growth in our region, and how would you advocate for these in your role?

How would you work to secure federal/state funding or grants for infrastructure and economic development projects in our area?

What do you see as the keys to growing our local economy, and if elected how can you help?

**Please see below

Workforce Development and Education

What specific actions will you take to improve workforce development programs and align them with the needs of businesses in our state/region?

***This session through the Economic Development budget the Legislature funded the Manufacturing 4.0 grants for businesses. The program provides grants to small and mid-sized manufacturers with three to 125 employees to assist with the adoption, integration, and purchase of smart technologies in the manufacturing process. The program was previously funded with federal COVID money.

***The U.S. Department of Labor recently approved the Iowa Office of Apprenticeship under Workforce Development. This office will approve apprenticeships for the state. The office is fully staffed up and has started working with businesses to create apprenticeship programs.

**The business community continually asks for more trained workers. House Democrats have supported through bills and amendments increased funding for education, including post-secondary education (see below for details).

**The business community recognizes that Iowa has a housing shortage, especially affordable housing, because their workers are struggling to find housing. In addition to the People Over Politics housing plan (see below) the Legislature increased the funding for the Housing Renewal Pilot Program this session in the Eco Devo budget to $550,000. The program is for Habitat for Humanity to provide grants to local organizations to rehab blighted homes. The homes are then sold to low and moderate income families.

How would you support educational institutions, including community colleges and vocational schools, in preparing students for the jobs of tomorrow?

What is your stance on funding and support for Regents institutions, such as the University of Northern Iowa, and how do you see their role in contributing to the state’s educational and economic landscape?

***Please see Below

Legislative Priorities and Governance

What are your top legislative priorities related to economic development, and how will these benefit our region specifically?

How do you plan to work across the aisle to pass legislation that supports economic growth and addresses the needs of the business community?

**Many of our answers can be addressed through our People Over Politics plan and/or issues that we have stood up on the floor and spoken about. Below is a list of our People Over Politics, identified bill numbers and other ideas to address your questions. We are more then open to feedback and would love the opportunity to visit with Grow Cedar Valley members like we have done in the past. Would also like to know if folks have specific legislative ideas we could draft this coming session.

Economic Development and Business Growth:

**We work directly with Director Townsend and always make sure the Cedar Valley is at the top if her list. We have been fortunate to have her and her staff visit our community in person on several occasions. We support any and all efforts of building a Strong workforce. Some legislation that may help:

Bring back collective bargaining, including adding the right to organize to Iowa’s Constitution (HJR 2003 – Jerome and Timi sponsored)
Expand unemployment benefits for persons who have been affected by closures and layoffs
Prohibit union busting. I know this varies in our business community, but definitely open to more discussion.
Stop culture attacks (LGBTQ, Reproductive Freedom) – makes it harder to recruit and maintain talent. These are areas that push some of our young folks to look elsewhere.
Affordable housing legislation.
The People of Over Politics Plan also includes:
Creating a $15 million tax credit program for affordable housing units, which leverages $23 million more in federal funds.
Expanding the first-time homebuyers savings account which offers a tax-free solution for home savings. (HF 697 – all of us sponsored)
Creating a neighborhood grant program for homeowners to make necessary improvements to their homes. Households making $109,000 or less are eligible for up to $20,000. (HF 693 – all of us sponsored)
Child care which I feel the Cedar Valley is Leading in this area. Thanks to Mary Janssen and area Businesses!!
Increase the child and dependent care tax credit to match federal credit. (HF 695, Div.I – all 3 of us sponsored)
Creating a new Child Care Center and Child Development Home Grant Fund for costs related to the establishment of new licensed child care centers or a new child development home, or the expansion of an existing facility. (HF 695, Div.II – all 3 of us sponsored)
Provide a small business child care tax credit, up to $3,000 per employee, per year, to help fund a child care center at the business site. (HF 695, Div.III – all 3 of us sponsored)
Allow more families to receive Child Care Assistance (CCA) by increasing the eligible federal poverty level (FPL) from 160% or 200%. (HF 695, Div.IV – all 3 of us sponsored)
Adequate funding for public K-12, community colleges, and regent institutions is essential.
We all have Opposition to AEA changes and I feel this will have a negative effect on our children and families across Iowa.
To address the rising costs of higher education and hold Iowa Regents institutions harmless, House Democrats introduced HF 2352 (all 3 us sponsored):
In-state freshman undergraduate attending ISU, UNI, or UI would have the same tuition and fees for all four years (does not apply to out-of-state students or graduate students)

While the freshman class the following year may have higher tuition/fees, it would also be frozen at the same level for four years.

Requires the Legislature to annually pass a supplemental appropriation to the Regents to equal the reduction in tuition and mandatory fees.

**My (Timi Brown-Powers) personal goals this session is to build a balanced budget, assure money is allocated where Iowans need it the most. Continue my work with Representative Kressig on Mental Health and work locally as the new program takes shape. And overall be available and communicate with constituents as we write and pass legislation.

For more information, please contact:

Steve Firman

Director of Government Affairs

steve@growcedarvalley.com

Hear from the Candidates: Iowa’s Second Congressional District

Advocacy is a central part of Grow Cedar Valley’s mission to support economic development in the region. As part of these efforts, we reached out to Iowa Congressional candidates to understand their perspectives on key economic issues impacting the Cedar Valley. Below, we’ve provided their unedited responses side by side. You can read the full set of responses for each district by visiting the corresponding blog.

Please note that the views expressed by the candidates do not reflect the views of Grow Cedar Valley. As a nonpartisan organization, we do not endorse any candidate or political party.

Economic Development and Business Growth

What federal or state-level policies do you support that would promote economic growth in our region, and how would you advocate for these in your role?

Ashley Hinson (R)

Incumbent

I have championed legislation to make tax relief permanent for working families and small businesses who are struggling under Bidenomics. I’ve also helped introduce bipartisan legislation (the Informed Lawmaking to Combat Inflation Act) to help rein in government spending that could worsen inflation and drive prices higher. I’ve also introduced legislation (the Red Tape Reduction Act) to get big government out of the way by rolling back onerous regulations that prevent growth and stifle economic opportunity. Additionally, I support extending the 2017 Tax Cuts and Jobs Act to provide certainty for families and businesses and keep our economy competitive globally.

Sarah Corkery (D)

Candidate

I would advocate for further investment in existing infrastructure, emphasizing repairs and maintenance. We can create incentivized projects that will make local communities more financially sustainable and livable by increasing the economic viability of existing parts of our communities. We can continue to enhance programs in the Bipartisan Infrastructure Law and the Inflation Reduction Act that will better communities.

How would you work to secure federal/state funding or grants for infrastructure and economic development projects in our area?

Ashley Hinson (R)

Incumbent

My track record of bringing federal dollars back to eastern Iowa speaks for itself. Through Community Project Funding requests, I am proud to have secured $5 million to support the Hawkeye Community College Smart Automation and Robotics Center at TechWorks, $1 million for Iowa Heartland Habitat for Humanity’s Targeted Neighborhood Revitalization, and $50,000 for the Leader Valley Foundation’s “Leader in Me” project. I’ve also helped secure funding in surrounding counties including airport improvements, housing initiatives, and childcare centers. These vital investments help grow the Cedar Valley’s workforce and drive economic development across Iowa. I remain committed to bringing as many federal dollars back to our state as possible — ensuring that Iowans’ tax dollars work for us, not just for places like New York and California.

Sarah Corkery (D)

Candidate

Once in office, I will direct my staff to compile a top projects list from communities within the district and match them with existing federal and state programs. We will proactively update the list each year and assist communities in applying for funds.. When we identify gaps between desired projects and available funding, we will advocate for additional funding or revisions to programs through the legislative process to fill those gaps.

What do you see as the keys to growing our local economy, and if elected how can you help?

Ashley Hinson (R)

Incumbent

Our economy grows when Iowans are able to keep more of their hard-earned paychecks, when small businesses have certainty, and when we are helping connect Iowans with great local job opportunities. I will continue to focus on a pro-growth economic agenda that cuts red tape, empowers our workers, and gives all Iowans the freedom to achieve their goals and thrive.

Sarah Corkery (D)

Candidate

– Support increased childcare funding so that working families can access childcare at a reasonable price.
– Implement and fund pre-K for all school districts in the district to give children, including those from disadvantaged economic backgrounds, the opportunity to succeed in their education and future employment.
– Ensure community colleges’ technical and skilled trade programs meet the workforce needs for the next 5 to 10 years and are fully funded.
– Invest in projects that make our communities livable and attractive to retain talent the district loses every year.

Workforce Development and Education

What specific actions will you take to improve workforce development programs and align them with the needs of businesses in our state/region?

Ashley Hinson (R)

Incumbent

I have worked across the aisle to help promote career and technical education and increase access to skills-based training programs to help address the pervasive workforce shortage. For example, I have introduced legislation (REAL Trucking Act) to allow 18 to 20-year-old truck drivers to be able to cross state lines. Bridging the skills gap will help rebuild the workforce and ensure our long-term economic growth.

Sarah Corkery (D)

Candidate

– I will work to ensure that we understand specific future workforce needs by funding statistically-valid workforce studies and forecasts. I’ll ensure these forecasts are matched with existing training resources and where there are gaps, help identify funding to grow or adjust program capacity.
– I will assign a member of my staff to focus on economic recruitment and development activities of the communities in the district.

How would you support educational institutions, including community colleges and vocational schools, in preparing students for the jobs of tomorrow?

Ashley Hinson (R)

Incumbent

I have visited every single community college in our district and seen firsthand how these institutions prepare their students for great job opportunities upon graduation. I am working to break the stigma that someone has to go to a four-year college to find success – in fact, it is quite the opposite. Four-year schools can often be roads to nowhere, where community colleges or apprenticeship programs offer skills-based classes that actually prepare students for high-tech, in-demand careers. I also helped lead the PELL Act, legislation that would extend Pell Grant eligibility to qualifying short-term workforce education programs. Many Iowans are seeking flexible, short-term learning options that help advance their careers. Federal resources should be used more effectively to align education opportunities with our workforce needs.

Sarah Corkery (D)

Candidate

– Please see the comments above

What is your stance on funding and support for Regents institutions, such as the University of Northern Iowa, and how do you see their role in contributing to the state’s educational and economic landscape?

Ashley Hinson (R)

Incumbent

The University of Northern Iowa is a great institution that plays a crucial role in shaping the state’s educational and economic landscape, providing affordable, high-quality education to a broad range of students and helping develop a skilled workforce that benefits Iowa’s economy. While the majority of funding for Regent universities is not federal, I have supported key investments in these institutions through the National Science Foundation, Department of Defense, and National Institutes of Health, which facilitate federal grant and contract opportunities for innovative and competitive research. I have also supported direct financial support for students, including funding for Pell Grants.

Sarah Corkery (D)

Candidate

I am fully supportive of our public educational institutions and will work to enhance the premier programs they offer. These institutions provide opportunities to improve the lives of the next generation and enhance the economic vitality of the communities that host them. In addition, I support funding for educational institutions’ research efforts.

Legislative Priorities and Governance

What are your top legislative priorities related to economic development, and how will these benefit our region specifically?

Ashley Hinson (R)

Incumbent

– My top legislative priorities related to economic development is workforce empowerment. In Congress, I introduced the Workforce Innovation and Empowerment legislative package. This package consists of three bills that identify and address workforce gaps to help connect Iowans with career advancement opportunities, particularly in skilled trades, and provide pathways to continued success for workers without college degrees. The BEST Act provides a tax credit for employers that maintain a qualified training program for employees who are not seeking a college degree, empowering skilled workers to advance in their careers and strengthen our workforce.

– Child care is also related to economic development. Access to child care is one of the top issues I hear about from working families and small businesses across our district. If folks don’t have access to child care, they can’t work. If child care is too expensive or far away, it may make more sense for one parent to stay home and care for their kids. I’m working to expand affordable childcare options, especially in rural communities. I’ve brought home federal investments in child care to help expand childcare centers and add more slots. I’ve also introduced legislation to expand childcare access for those who don’t work traditional 9 to 5 jobs.

Sarah Corkery (D)

Candidate

– We must take a long view on economic development. Successful economic development should not be transactional. Communities that invest in their children, maintain and increase our educational standards, and increase workforce participation will be better positioned to attract employers and retain employees.
– We must focus on pre-K for all Iowa children. Many of our children, particularly in economically challenged areas, start K-12 behind and never catch up.

How do you plan to work across the aisle to pass legislation that supports economic growth and addresses the needs of the business community?

Ashley Hinson (R)

Incumbent

I have worked across the aisle to reduce inflation, improve access to child care, and bolster the workforce in Iowa and nationwide. I frequently visit with members of the business community and local stakeholders to hear their concerns and priorities so that I can work on solutions in Congress. I will continue working in a bipartisan manner to support economic development in Iowa and keep our state a great place to live, work, and raise a family.

Sarah Corkery (D)

Candidate

– I have a long history working in the private sector where the party doesn’t matter. Our capacity to get the job done with whoever shows up to work determines our success. I will bring that approach to Congress and seek to build relationships–regardless of party affiliation.
– I will hire staff in my district offices who possess an on-the-ground understanding of local economic needs.
– Working with DC staff, these Iowa-based leaders will ensure community businesses are 1) able to fully realize the benefits of our legislation, and 2) understand and apply to grant opportunities from federal agencies and programs. 3) have a lower cost of living
– I will hire graduate public policy students as interns, who will assist in community projects and utilize their interests to improve legislation.
– My Iowa-based staff will include a Regional District Manager and office staff here in District 2.

For more information, please contact:

Steve Firman

Director of Government Affairs

steve@growcedarvalley.com

Civility in the Workplace

Creating a workplace culture rooted in respect, empathy, and understanding requires a clear and intentional approach. Grow Cedar Valley invited Scott Raecker, Executive Director of The Robert D. and Billie Ray Center at Drake University and former Iowa House Representative, to discuss how integrating civility into daily interactions can strengthen teams and support a positive environment. His talk offered a framework and specific actions that any organization can implement to promote more meaningful and effective communication.

Understanding the Character Counts Framework

Raecker, a Waterloo native, introduced the Character Counts framework, which serves as a foundation for developing civility across various settings, from classrooms to boardrooms. The framework is built on six pillars:

Care: Demonstrating kindness and compassion towards others.

Trustworthiness: Building a reputation based on honesty and integrity.

Respect: Acknowledging the value of different perspectives and treating others with dignity.

Responsibility: Taking accountability for one’s actions and their impact on others.

Fairness: Making decisions that are just and equitable for everyone involved.

Citizenship: Contributing positively to your community and workplace.

By embracing these six pillars, organizations can create a structured approach to building and maintaining a culture of civility and collaboration.

Practical Strategies for Promoting Civility at Work

Drawing from Raecker’s insights and the Character Counts framework, here are some practical ways your organization can encourage civility within your teams:

Encourage Carefrontation Instead of Confrontation

Unlike confrontation, which often carries a negative connotation, carefrontation emphasizes addressing issues with empathy and respect. It’s about focusing on the behavior or issue at hand, rather than targeting the individual.

He suggests when providing feedback, approach with genuine curiosity. Ask open-ended questions to understand their background, experiences and viewpoints. Identify shared interests, values or goals, even if your specific positions differ. Seek to learn, not just debate.

Build Personal Connections Across the Team

Raecker highlighted the importance of building relationships with colleagues who may have different viewpoints or backgrounds to help bridge divides and create an environment where diverse perspectives are valued. Personal connections build trust and pave the way for more open and effective communication.

Promote Self-Awareness and Accountability

Civility starts with each individual. Encouraging self-awareness helps team members recognize their own impact on the workplace dynamic.

Leverage the Power of Recognition

Raecker emphasized that a civil workplace is created through intentional actions. Publicly acknowledging those who demonstrate care, respect, and responsibility encourages others to follow suit.

By integrating these takeaways, organizations can start building an environment where respect and civility are the norm. While it may not always be easy, the long-term benefits—such as improved morale, better teamwork, and increased productivity—are well worth the effort.

Bringing it All Together

Scott Raecker provided a powerful reminder that civility is not only a nicety but a necessity for effective teamwork and leadership. Implementing these principles doesn’t require grand gestures; small, consistent actions can transform your workplace. From setting clear ground rules to engaging in carefrontation, these strategies offer a roadmap for creating a more positive and productive work environment.

Let’s Keep the Conversation Going

The journey toward building a more civil and effective workplace doesn’t end here. Join us at the upcoming Opportunity Summit to continue exploring how civility, inclusion, and effective communication can shape the future of our workplaces and communities!