My roots run deep in Maquoketa, Iowa. Six generations of Bowmans have called the community home, and it's where I grew up learning the value of hard work. My dad, Hugh, owned and operated Bowman Oil for 53 years. He pumped gas, checked oil, and cleaned windshields with a smile, a true pillar of the community.
Following in his footsteps, I juggled school and sports with a variety of jobs—from wrangling electrical wires with a local pro to working road construction on Interstate 80. I even braved the summer sun baling hay and working odd jobs for farmers, including my future father-in-law.
Having graduated with a Bachelor of Arts in Social Studies from Luther College, I embarked on my teaching journey in Filer, Idaho. But Iowa's heartland called me back, and I returned to marry my sweetheart, Renee, whose family farms on the north side of Maquoketa.
Back in my hometown, I taught high school social studies and community college classes while also leading both the wrestling and girls' track teams at the high school.
In 2010, I took a leap of faith and entered the political arena, representing the people of Jackson, Jones, Dubuque, and Clinton counties in the Iowa Senate for eight years. Serving as a state senator wasn't just about holding office; it was about serving my community. As a strong advocate for eastern Iowa, I championed critical issues like improving transportation infrastructure, ensuring access to quality education, and supporting a thriving agricultural economy. It was an incredible honor to be a voice at the state level.
Now, with Renee and three wonderful children by my side, life's a beautiful balance. We cherish family time, hit the road for adventures, and unwind with a good round of golf (or any sport, really). Sometimes, the best moments are simply chilling on our patio, watching the corn grow—a reminder of where I came from and the community I'm proud to serve.
I'm excited to dive into my work at the Center for Rural Affairs. Our fight for the backbone of America—the gritty family farmers; the go-getter small businesses; and the heart and soul of our nation, rural communities like Maquoketa—truly resonates with me. I'm eager to unleash my unique skill set and collaborate with an incredible team to help rural areas not just survive, but thrive. Let's roll!
