Stacey Robles
Inclusive talent program manager, Greater Des Moines Partnership
Age: 33
Education: Master of Business Administration, University of Iowa Tippie College of Business; Certificate in Leadership, University of Iowa Tippie College of Business; Bachelor of Arts, Simpson College
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Tell us four of your proudest accomplishments or accolades.
Established a food pantry, clothing closet and laundromat at Capitol View Elementary, my former elementary school, through partnerships with educators, parents and community organizations.
Conducted statewide outreach and housing inspections as a migrant seasonal farmworker outreach worker, improving safety, compliance and employer-worker relationships.
As an adjunct instructor for English language learners, supported non-English-speaking adults in building practical language skills needed to succeed in their roles.
Served in leadership and advisory roles with organizations including First to Finish! Local College Access Network, Latina Leadership Initiative, ACLU of Iowa, Raise the Bar Initiative and Iowa’s Latino Heritage Festival.
What’s an experience or memory that influenced how you saw the world or what you wanted to do in life?
Growing up as a first-generation student, I learned how language, systems and resources can either open doors or create barriers. Those experiences shaped how I see the world and clarified what I wanted to do in life: build pathways that make opportunity more accessible and ensure people feel supported, seen and able to succeed.
What’s one decision you made early in your career that had an outsized impact?
Early in my career, I chose to work in community-based roles. That decision grounded my work in real-world experience, shaped how I understand systems and equity, and helped me build the relationships and perspective that continue to guide my leadership and program development today.
What are your aspirations for the future?
Continuing my education to advance representation and ensure younger generations see themselves reflected across industries.
What are you still working on to improve as a leader?
Becoming more confident in owning my leadership style and stepping into visible leadership. While I find joy working behind the scenes, I am intentionally challenging myself to be more comfortable influencing change in visible ways.
What’s one piece of advice you’d give to a young professional?
Approach your career with curiosity and a willingness to learn. Seek mentors in the industries you aspire to enter and allow them to challenge how you think. Some of the most valuable growth comes from being open to new perspectives and learning as much about yourself as you do about others.
What’s one regular habit that’s made you successful?
One habit that has shaped my success is consistently seeking feedback and reflecting on it. Taking time to learn from each experience and staying curious has helped me grow, build strong relationships and make thoughtful, informed decisions.
What’s one outdated way of thinking that you’d like to challenge?
One outdated way of thinking I would like to challenge is the idea that traditional credentials are the only indicator of talent or potential. Skills-based hiring recognizes the value of transferable skills and lived experience, in addition to formal education. This is personal to me. My maternal grandmother lacked access to education but developed the skills to become a respected midwife serving Indigenous communities in her homeland.
What is one issue you would like to see Central Iowa leaders address, and why?
I would like to see more Central Iowa leaders and companies expand access to work-based learning opportunities for high school students. These experiences give students early exposure to careers, help them build practical skills and allow them to explore pathways they may not have known existed in our region. Expanding these opportunities strengthens both student outcomes and our future workforce.
What’s one fun fact about you?
I camped out for over 12 hours to see my favorite K-rock band at a Lollapalooza after-party in Chicago.
Hobbies: Strength training, attending concerts and traveling with my family
What is one word that best describes you?
Relentless.
What’s one food you think people must try in the Des Moines area?
Bernardo’s in Des Moines.
What’s the funniest or most surprising thing that’s happened to you recently?
Recently, my friends and I bought tickets to see BTS before booking flights or lodging. We quickly realized most hotels and Airbnbs were already booked. We still don’t know where we’re staying, but we’re confident the concert will be worth it and that we’ll figure out the rest.
What’s your favorite tradition to participate in locally?
One of my favorite traditions is attending the World Food & Music Festival with my siblings.
What is your go-to snack?
Trader Joe’s Chili & Lime Rolled Corn Tortilla Chips.