Bertran Selected for mentorship program
Prestigious course for economic development professionals
Trending
By Robert E. Oliver
Ariel Bertran, Development Director for the City of Webster City, will participate in the 2026-2027 Mentorship Program sponsored by the Professional Developers of Iowa (PDI). Applicants must have a minimum two years economic development experience, and pursue a career in the field. With only 10 seats open each year, securing a place is competitive.
In joining this class, Bertran will complete advanced coursework in economic development, but more importantly has been assigned a mentor with top credentials and experience in the field.
He's Curt Strouth, President & CEO, Iowa Lakes Corridor Development Corporation.
Strouth has 15 years in economic development, including 12 in Sheldon, as development director. Unlike most rural Iowa cities, Sheldon grew 6.2% in the 2020 census. Its Revive & Thrive program offers local businesses 5-year, interest-free loans to improve their facilities, products and services. It's one example of the city's innovative approach to development.
We asked Strouth what Bertran can expect from the course. "Ariel will learn a lot in this work," Strouth said. "And after the 12-month class, she'll have a new toolbox for every aspect of economic development work. That includes knowing how to work with the Iowa Economic Development Authority, and both elected and appointed officials."
Bertran's peers will play a key role. "Knowing when and how to network is key to success," Strouth said. "At the end of the course, Ariel will have a strong network of peers across the state. It's a powerful asset, and a major benefit of this entire experience."
Bertran's boss, City Manager John Harrenstein, commented, "Ariel's selection is no surprise. The course includes a wide gamut of topics including legislative, infrastructure, and development strategies. Since arriving in her position with the city over four years ago, she's constantly promoted growth and development in Webster City."
Before joining city staff, Bertran worked 15 years in banking, in Des Moines, Fort Dodge, and Webster City. "I understand the financial piece, and how it differs in the private and public sectors," she recently told The Daily Freeman Journal. Growing up in Jefferson, Bertran said, "After college I could have lived and worked anywhere. I chose Webster City."
It's a decision she's never regretted.
Working alongside Harrenstein, Ottie Maxie of the Ames Regional Economic Alliance, and local business leaders, she's laser-focused on the city's #1, priority: economic and community development. She'll tell you both are necessary to achieve the city's long-range objectives.
On the economic side, it means reversing population decline, and supporting new, and better jobs for residents. It's working with businesses; those already here, and those interested in coming here. Strouth cites an oft-repeated truth: "80% of growth comes from businesses already in your town."
Bertran knows Webster City must remain a great place to live, work, raise a family, and retire. To attract new residents, there must be compelling reasons to move here. New housing tax credit awards and a successful referendum on high school modernization, are key building blocks in achieving that.
But simply having a "nice town," isn't enough. We can't expect a business expanding or relocating here to compromise on what they need and want to thrive. They don't have to; cities and towns across the country are hungry as locusts for growth, and we must compete.
Putting us "in the game" is top priority for Bertran every day. A year from now, when she graduates from PDI's Mentorship Program, we can expect her to bring even more to a job and city she loves.