FBLA Brings Top Talent to Vibrant Des Moines

The Future Business Leaders of America (FBLA) is the largest student-led, business-focused career and technical student organization in the world. We inspire and prepare students to become community-minded business leaders, and with more than 3,400 college members across 500+ chapters, FBLA is leading the way in creating opportunities for students entering the workforce through relevant career preparation and leadership experiences.

A question I often get asked is: “Why FBLA? What sets FBLA members apart from their peers?” That’s easy! We represent some of the brightest and most driven college students in the nation. From two-year institutions like community and technical colleges to top business schools like Wharton and Duke’s Fuqua School of Business, FBLA members stand out on campus as student and community leaders.

Local Businesses Play Key Role for Students

FBLA Collegiate members don’t just excel academically, they are also leaders, community advocates and professionals in the making. They are constantly pushing boundaries, growing their networks and developing the skills and knowledge necessary to succeed in future careers. But these opportunities and experiences wouldn’t be possible without the support of our industry partners across the country. Whether it's hosting a business tour, participating in a career fair or collaborating on real-world cases for our case study competitions, local businesses play a key role in shaping the futures of our students.

Attend the Collegiate Career Connections Conference

We are thrilled to bring our Collegiate Career Connections Conference back to Greater Des Moines (DSM). Last year, this event attracted more than 100 top students and business educators to the area for a two-and-a-half-day conference centered on building connections, learning from business leaders and competing in a national case study competition, and let’s not forget, experiencing the culture of this vibrant city. We are proud to partner once again with Principal Financial and many other local businesses to make this conference an exceptional experience. This year, we will be welcoming more than 150 members; and we look forward to showcasing Des Moines as a thriving city with abundant career opportunities.

So, if you’re in Downtown Des Moines (DSM) on Oct. 24 – 26, 2024 and notice some spiffy-looking college students, we encourage you to stop and chat with them. Your involvement is what makes this event truly special. To those businesses opening their doors to us, attending our career fair and expo and participating in our speed networking event, we extend a sincere THANK YOU! Your support helps us to highlight the vibrant culture and exciting career opportunities that DSM has to offer. And, if you have any recommendations for the best cuisine in town, I’m all ears!

The response from the Des Moines business community has been outstanding so far, but we want to make an even greater impact. We need more of you represented! If you’re interested in joining us to represent your company or industry, we’d love to have you on board. Send a quick note to aring@fbla.org, and I’ll make sure to connect you with an opportunity to get involved. Until then, I’m counting down the days to enjoying that crisp Midwest fall air!

The Greater Des Moines Partnership calendar of events is a one-stop resource for activities taking place throughout the region. Find networking information for Greater Des Moines (DSM) businesses, including Chamber luncheons, roundtables and ribbon cuttings. You can also find live music happening each week thanks to the “Live Music This Week in DSM” blog series.

Job opportunities and career resources are abundant in Greater Des Moines (DSM). Whether you're looking to find an internship, a job, develop professionally or grow as a student, we have the resources to help you thrive.