Meet Adam Steen...
Transition Capital Management
Des Moines, Iowa

http://www.linkedin.com/in/adamsteen

What makes Iowa a great place to live and work?
A: "I love living and working in Iowa because I can do so many different recreational things and include business in each one of those activities. We give ourselves the ability to achieve goals... Iowa gives us a fun place to achieve them in." More...

What advice do you have for students as they decide where to begin their career?
"Don't be afraid to fail. If you choose to pursue a lifelong dream, go for it and if you fail... get back up and try to conquer the next challenge. It's also important to mentally document your path and learn from your mistakes. Eventually, you'll become very good at recognizing opportunity and will be confident in your decision making process."

Do you feel it's important to connect with other young professionals in Iowa as mentors or to network? If so, why...
"Absolutely. I believe we're living in a relationship economy and it's the connections we make and the networks we maintain that will ultimately lead to our success. Surround yourself with great people and make it a point to learn from every connection you make. Some will be good and some will be bad, but if you make it a point to stay true to yourself, you will be a better person/professional for it."

What are some of the benefits/advantages to working and living in Iowa as a young professional?
"I believe that people in general have an opportunity to be whatever they want to be in Iowa. There are so many opportunities here; however, it's up to the individual to make them happen. There are no free rides, but if you approach things in the right way, there's no limit to what can be created."

Why did you personally choose to live and work in Iowa?
"I left Indianola, Iowa in 1998 to pursue a career in professional baseball. During my senior year at Minnesota State, Mankato I was drafted by the Philadelphia Phillies in 2002 and played 2 brief minor league seasons before being cut. I then moved to Minneapolis and learned many valuable lessons from the insurance industry. I chose to move back to Iowa because I had an opportunity to go into business with my father. I jumped at that chance in 2004 and it was the best decision I've ever made."

Why should a young professional consider working in Iowa?
"If pursued the right way, there is no limit to the opportunity you will be given."