For Katina Busch, what started as a move to Iowa for college ultimately became a career, a family and a place she’s proud to call home.
Busch grew up in a rural community in Ontario, then moved to the suburbs of Chicago at 10 years old. She earned a bachelor’s degree in industrial engineering from Iowa State University and began working as a manufacturing engineer at John Deere after graduation.
In her nearly two decades with the company, she has lived and worked in several Iowa communities in roles across the Agriculture, Construction, and Forestry businesses. She has held positions in manufacturing engineering, quality, production leadership and program management, supporting products ranging from skid steer loaders and forestry equipment to planters, articulated dump trucks and now row crop tractors.
Today, she serves as the Business Unit Manager for the 8R row crop tractor product line in Waterloo, leading the operational execution of one of John Deere's flagship products to build tractors safely, deliver exceptional quality and meet commitments to customers around the world.
1. How does collaboration across John Deere bring new innovations to farmers?
Innovation in agriculture is truly a team sport. Some of the most impactful innovations happen when we bring together perspectives from farmers, engineers, production employees, suppliers and dealers. Each group sees challenges through a different lens, and that's often where breakthrough ideas emerge. One of the most rewarding aspects of my career has been working across product development and manufacturing organizations to turn customer feedback into meaningful product improvements.
From a manufacturing standpoint, innovation isn't just about new product features. It's also about finding better ways to build equipment safely, efficiently and with the highest level of quality. By collaborating across factories and functions, we're able to implement new technologies, improve processes and bring ideas to life more quickly.
At the end of the day, innovation happens when talented people with different experiences come together around a common goal: helping our customers be more successful. I believe the best results come from creating an environment where people feel supported, empowered and encouraged to contribute their ideas. By investing in people, embracing new technologies and continuously improving the way we work, we can build stronger teams and deliver better outcomes for our customers.
2. Why is an Iowa location valuable for companies like Deere?
Few places in the country offer the unique combination of agricultural expertise, manufacturing capability and customer connection that exists in Iowa. The state is home to some of the most productive and innovative farmers in the world, giving companies like Deere the opportunity to listen, learn, test and improve capabilities alongside customers who use our products every day.
Iowa also has a strong ecosystem of manufacturers, universities, suppliers and communities that are closely connected. That makes it easier to collaborate, move ideas forward and turn innovation into practical solutions. Add in the state’s central location, talented workforce and deep agricultural roots, and Iowa becomes an ideal place to innovate and build products.
For me, Iowa is more than a great place to build equipment. It is home to exceptional talent, deep agricultural knowledge and a strong network of industries working together to solve real challenges for our customers.
3. Why did you join the Cultivate 360 program and what were some of the highlights?
Being part of the inaugural Cultivate 360 cohort has been an exciting opportunity. I joined the program to gain a deeper customer perspective, expand my network, and better understand how Iowa’s industries contribute to economic growth and community development.
One of the biggest highlights has been learning how interconnected our industries really are. While our companies may serve different parts of the value chain, we're often working to solve similar challenges for the same customers. It's been inspiring to see the power of collaboration and partnerships in driving new solutions and growth across Iowa.
I've also enjoyed learning about the rapid adoption of technology throughout the agriculture industry. Whether it's automation, digital tools or AI, many organizations are navigating similar challenges and opportunities. The willingness of leaders across industries to learn from one another has led to some fascinating discussions and valuable insights.
Cultivate 360 has broadened my perspective on Iowa’s agricultural ecosystem and reinforced the impact we can have when industries, communities and partners work together toward a shared purpose.
4. What advice do you have for someone considering a move or return to Iowa?
If you're on the fence, my advice is simple: come experience Iowa for yourself.
As someone who isn't an Iowa native, I've found the communities to be incredibly welcoming, the opportunities to be wide-ranging and Iowa to be a great place to put down roots. Whether you're looking for a strong job market, great schools, ways to get involved or activities for your family, Iowa has a lot to offer.
I've lived in several communities and each has had something unique that made it feel like home. One of the things I appreciate most about Iowa is that if you're willing to lean in, get involved and make a difference, you can have a real impact on your community, your organization or even the future of the state.
And yes, you'll experience all four seasons. But if winter gets a little too long, there are plenty of flights available for a quick getaway before coming back home to Iowa.
5. Please share three recommendations of things to do or places to go in Iowa.
Get outside and explore. Iowa has incredible state and county parks, with opportunities for hiking, biking, boating, camping, and fishing. Some of my favorite spots include the Pulpit Rock trails and Fish Hatchery in Decorah, Lake Macbride for a walk, bike ride, or day on the water, and Pikes Peak State Park, which offers some of the most beautiful views in the state.
Experience a local event. Whether it's a community festival, farmers market, county fair, or the Iowa State Fair, there's always something happening. These events are a great way to experience Iowa's culture, connect with the community, and appreciate the strong agricultural roots that make the state unique. And chances are you'll spot a little John Deere green along the way.
Embrace all four seasons. Iowa offers something to enjoy year-round. In the winter, try skiing at one of the local ski hills or spend the day exploring attractions like the John Deere Tractor & Engine Museum, the National Mississippi River Museum & Aquarium, or the Figge Art Museum.
What I love most is that no matter where you are in Iowa, there's always something to discover. The state's combination of outdoor recreation, community events, and local attractions makes it easy to find activities that fit your interests and make you feel connected to the place you call home.
Published September 2026.