My roots run deep in Maquoketa, Iowa. Six generations of Bowmans have called the place home, and 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 bailing hay and working odd jobs for farmers, including my future father-in-law. After graduating with a Bachelor of Arts degree in social studies from Luther College, I embarked on my teaching journey in Filer, Idaho. 

But Iowa's heartland called me back. 

I taught high school social studies and community college classes in my hometown 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

I'm excited to dive into the work at the Center for Rural Affairs.

Tod is based out his home office in Maquoketa, Iowa.