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Center for Industrial Research and Service (CIRAS)

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The Center for Industrial Research and Service (CIRAS) is jointly part of the College of Engineering and Office of Economic Development and Industrial Relations at Iowa State University. Since 1963, CIRAS has partnered with Iowa companies and communities to help them prosper and grow.

The CIRAS mission is to improve the quality of life in Iowa by enhancing the performance of industry through applied research, education, and technical assistance. CIRAS has been working with companies in communities across Iowa for more than 60 years, based on a vision that communities are better when they contain prosperous businesses. CIRAS has provides Iowa manufacturers with the training, tools, and connections needed to accelerate innovation, identify new opportunities in domestic and export markets, and maximize potential. CIRAS delivers services in four core service areas: Operational Excellence, Workforce, Growth and Executive Strategy.

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Success Stories

Partnerships Help Plas-Tech Grow

Reported Year
2023
Over the last several years Plas-Tech engaged with CIRAS, part of the MEP National Network™, on several projects to build upon their capabilities and capacities in order to position themselves for growth opportunities. With that foundation they were in need of developing a stronger digital presence.

Making Safety a Priority

Reported Year
2023
Jack knew that updating and customizing the company’s existing safety program was the surest way to reduce workplace injuries and accidents. He also knew that CIRAS, part of the MEP National Network™, could connect him with an expert to help him meet his goal.
Created March 18, 2019, Updated April 2, 2024