Joan O’Brien to Retire After Decades of Service to AAI and Iowa Agriculture

The Agribusiness Association of Iowa (AAI) extends heartfelt congratulations and best wishes to Joan O’Brien, Chief Financial Officer, as she prepares to fully retire on Oct. 10.

Joan has been a cornerstone of AAI for many years, earning deep respect not only within the association but also among partner organizations across Iowa and the nation. Her dedication, professionalism, and passion for agriculture have made a lasting impact on AAI and the broader ag community.

Throughout her tenure, Joan has served as a tireless advocate for AAI and the agricultural industry. She has also been the primary point of contact for AAI’s affiliated associations, including Iowa Certified Crop Advisers, Iowa Auctioneers Association, Iowa Aerial Applicators Association, Iowa Nursery and Landscape Association, Iowa Forage and Grassland Council, Iowa Seed Association, and Land Improvement Contractors of America.

A graduate of Simpson College, Joan has devoted more than 30 years to association management, including the past two years on a part-time basis, helping strengthen Iowa’s agribusiness network through her steady leadership and unwavering commitment. 

The entire AAI community thanks Joan for her many years of service and dedication. 

SHOWCASE EXHIBITORS 
Registration Opens Tuesday

All exhibiting companies can begin registration on:

Oct. 14 starting at 10 a.m.

All booth spaces are first come, first served. Last year's Showcase Trade Show was sold out and had a waiting list. Register early to claim your booth space.

Mark your calendar now to claim your space for the 2026 Agribusiness Showcase & Conference. Download the Exhibitor & Sponsor packet for additional details and options. 

The Agribusiness Showcase & Conference will be Feb. 10-11, 2026 at The Meadows Event Center in Altoona, Iowa. Hundreds of ag professionals from across the state gather every year to attend the Showcase for access to information direct from manufacturers, insights from national leaders, the highest quality agribusiness trade show in the Midwest, and the opportunity for interactions with others in the industry. 

Thank You For Your Membership!

As a member of AAI, you support the industry that is leading innovation, stewardship, and growth. Thank you for your membership and your commitment to the success of agribusiness in Iowa.

The following companies have recently joined or renewed their membership for the 2026 Membership Year.

Out And About

Member and Industry Visits

• Bushel
• Feed Energy
• United Services Association
• Interstates

Visits by: Julie Kenney, AAI CEO; Heath DeYoung, AAI Membership Director

• Iowa Department of Agriculture and Land Stewardship

Visit by: Julie Kenney, AAI CEO

• COMPANY

Visits by: Heath DeYoung, AAI Membership Director

Bayer Forward Farm Event

Panelist: Julie Kenney, AAI CEO

Attended by: Heath DeYoung, AAI Membership Director

Iowa Nutrient Research Center Water Quality Seminar

Attended by: Ben Gleason, INREC Executive Director