Aaron J. Budweg Joins Iowa’s Economic Development Community
New Member Spotlight
Meet Aaron J. Budweg, one of PDI’s newest members and someone who brings a lifetime of public service and a clear passion for rural Iowa to the table.
“My name is Aaron J. Budweg, and I’m the Director of Wright County Economic Development (WCED). I have the privilege of serving the folks throughout Wright County—from our hubs in Clarion, Eagle Grove, and Belmond to the hardworking residents in our smaller rural communities like Dows, Rowan, Goldfield, Galt, and Woolstock.”
After 45 years in public service—as a healthcare provider, a City Administrator, and a Councilman—Aaron found himself drawn to a role that would let him help not just individuals, but whole communities.
“What drew me to this role was the opportunity to move from helping individuals to helping entire communities. I truly believe I was in the right place at the right time.”
He loves the variety of the job, noting that “one hour I’m looking at TIF certifications for our Agribusiness Park, and the next I’m learning about cutting-edge hydrogen exploration happening right here in our soil.”
What really energizes Aaron about doing this work in Iowa is what he calls “the innovation in the unexpected.” In his eyes, Iowa isn’t just quiet farm towns—it’s a state leading in energy transition and ag‑tech. But most of all, he appreciates the people: “We are a community where people still answer the phone, support their neighbors, and have a deep sense of pride in their local main streets.” He says the momentum around rural housing and quality of life right now is “just infectious.”
Aaron joined PDI because he knows collaboration matters. “Economic development doesn't happen in a silo. I joined PDI because I want Wright County to have a seat at the table when we talk about the legislative priorities that keep our rural towns alive—things like Workforce Housing Tax Credits and protecting the tools that allow us to reinvest in our own infrastructure. I’m a big believer that we’re all smarter together than we are alone.” He’s especially excited for mentorship within the PDI community.
“There is a lot of seasoned wisdom in this network… I want to bring those best practices back home to help Wright County stay forward-thinking and resilient.”
He’s eager to connect with fellow members who share interests in rural housing, community branding, historic preservation for tourism, and the emerging hydrogen energy sector. “The best way to reach me is the old-fashioned way—give me a call at 515-532-6422 or send a note to abudweg@wrightco.iowa.gov.”
Outside of work, Aaron is just as community‑minded. “You’ll likely find me in the garden, baking, or smoking something on the smoker—I’m a firm believer that some of the best economic development happens over a good meal.” He also enjoys dancing and attending local town festivals. Above all, he’s proud of the people who make Wright County what it is. “We are incredibly fortunate to have an extensive list of dedicated volunteers county-wide… At the end of the day, economic development is about people, and when you have passionate volunteers like the residents of Wright County, you’re already halfway to a win.”
“If you’re ever traveling through north-central Iowa, please stop by my office in Clarion. The coffee is always on, and I’d be proud to show you what we’re building together!”
