Staff
BOBBY MARTENS
EXECUTIVE DIRECTOR
Bobby is the Executive Director of the Iowa Institute for Cooperatives, where he is responsible for enhancing the success of member cooperatives through business engagement, legislative advocacy, and education & training. With over 25 years of experience in supply chain management, including 19 years as a faculty member at Iowa State University, Bobby has a strong record of working with companies across the agriculture sector. Most recently, Bobby held the Iowa Institute for Cooperatives Endowed Professor of Economics position at Iowa State University. He is dedicated to advancing the institute’s reputation as a trusted partner and resource for cooperatives.
SOFIA I.
BUSINESS MANAGER
Sofia is the business manager for the Iowa Institute for Cooperatives. Sofia’s primary responsibilities include accounting, managing the institute’s daily operations and supporting year-round educational programs.
MEGAN CARLSON
DIRECTOR OF GOVERNMENT AFFAIRS
Megan serves as Director of Government Affairs for the Iowa Institute for Cooperatives. In this role, Megan is the primary liaison for the Iowa Institute for Cooperatives and its members, with the legislative and regulatory branches of state and federal government(s). Additionally, she is the member contact as it relates to government affairs and encouraging their grassroots participation in legislative issues. Megan attended Iowa State University and majored in Ag and Society and Political Science. Megan also brings with her 7 sessions of legislative experience.
MATTHEW EDDY
DIRECTOR OF COOPERATIVE DEVELOPMENT
Matthew Eddy, Director of Cooperative Development, brings with him a wealth of experience in leadership and education. With over 25 years in the field, Matt’s most recent role was at the Iowa Department of Education, where he served as Iowa’s Agriculture Education Consultant and State FFA and PSA advisor. Prior to joining the DOE, he spent two decades as an Ag Ed Instructor and FFA advisor in central Iowa.