Over the years, we’ve become familiar in Des Moines with names such as Blank, Pappajohn, Krause, Kirke, Kruidenier, Pomerantz, Knapp, Van Orsdel and Ruan. These people and countless others have led and are still leading our community to a time of great prosperity and growth. Opportunities are popping up around every corner of this city, thanks in large part to their hard work and vision. But now we are faced with the unanswered question, “Who are the leaders of tomorrow?”

It is projected that in 2006 approximately 300,000 Iowans will retire; leaving many leadership positions that must be filled. And, according to U.S. Census Bureau data, Iowa lost a net total of 11,691 college-educated people ages 25-39 during the period between 1995 and 2000. In short, the demand for young leaders is increasing as our supply is shrinking.

What does this mean for young professionals in Des Moines? I’ll tell you what it means. It means carpe diem: seize the day.

In an effort to sustain our community, today’s leaders are looking to young professionals to take on positions of leadership in existing companies, charitable organizations and local governments. Our leaders also are investing in young entrepreneurs to create more jobs and opportunities within the community. All of these leadership opportunities are here for the taking.

What? You don’t believe me? If you doubt that Des Moines has become a hotbed for leadership opportunities, I encourage you to talk to some of the young professionals who have already stepped up to the plate. For example:

• Michael Kiernan – This Metro Market partner and Des Moines City Council member is only 29 years old.

• Zac Voss – Voss is a local entrepreneur who has built a distribution company employing more than a dozen people. He is not yet over 30.

• Nate Hoogeveen – This local outdoor enthusiast founded the Iowa Whitewater Coalition, a non-profit organization dedicated to improving recreational opportunities on Iowa’s rivers. Hoogeveen is in his early 30s.

• Jamie Myers – Jamie is in the driver’s seat of Iowa’s largest home builder, Regency Homes. He is also involved in a number of philanthropic efforts across the state. Myers is in his mid-30s.

This list is only a start. So, it’s time to step up. If you’re a young professional in this community with a good idea and the willingness to work hard, you couldn’t find yourself in a better place.

So, I leave you with this question: “Who are the leaders of tomorrow?” My hopes are that many of you will answer, “I am.”

Marshall Porter is president of Young Variety, a group of young professionals providing funding for capital projects, essential equipment and special programs to children’s agencies throughout Central Iowa.

To submit a guest opinion piece to the Des Moines Business Record, contact Managing Editor Jim Pollock by e-mail at jimpollock@bpcdm.com or by phone at 288-3338, ext. 241.