Welcome

Women leaders choose to empower, challenge and inspire the people around them. Women who lead, choose to make a difference. As the Baby Boomer generation retires from the workplace, development of the next-generation of female leaders becomes even more important. In fact, it is crucial to the future of many businesses and industries, and my company -- Rockwell Collins -- is no exception. That's why Rockwell Collins has chosen to sponsor the 2010 Choosing to Lead: Iowa Women's Leadership luncheon, and the 2011 Choosing to Lead: Iowa Women's Leadership conference.

In 2007, the Choosing to Lead program began as one, ambitious idea and continues to grow. The program seeks to inspire and challenge women of all ages, ethnicities, backgrounds, occupations and professional levels through a dynamic exchange of ideas, leadership tools and motivational support from other women leaders. See a list of previous Conference and Luncheon speakers here.

The April 2010 luncheon will feature Suze Orman as the keynote speaker. One of the top motivational speakers in the country, Orman is called a "force in the world of personal finance" and a "one-woman financial advisor powerhouse" by USA Today.

The two-day conference in April 2011 will include internationally, nationally and regionally recognized keynote speakers, as well as a variety of networking opportunities and exhibitions. Participants will walk away from the conference motivated to lead at home, work and in life.

I personally believe that to maintain focus in our lives we must consistently renew our energies through learning and networking. Through the generosity of our sponsors, we are able to provide a forum for exactly that – rejuvenation and growth in our personal and professional lives. I am asking you to join me in sponsoring these two events and help inspire hundreds of women leaders throughout Iowa.

Marsha Schulte 2010 Luncheon and 2011 Conference Chair Vice President Finance & Controller Rockwell Collins