The Great West Casualty Business Competition takes place Thursday, February 5, at Western Iowa Tech Community College (WIT) in partnership with Great West Casualty Company. Now in its third year, the annual event provides students with hands-on, real-world business problem-solving experience.

The competition will run from 8:30 a.m. to 3:00 p.m. at WIT's Sioux City Campus in the L136 Conference Room, located at 4647 Stone Avenue.

During the event, student teams will work through a real-world business case, using analytical thinking, teamwork, and presentation skills to develop and present their solutions. Teams will receive feedback from a panel of industry professionals, offering valuable insight into real business decision-making and expectations.

The Great West Casualty Business Competition is open to teams of 2–6 students from Western Iowa Tech, community colleges, College Now programs, Pathway programs, and extension campuses. There is no cost to participate, and cash prizes of up to $500 will be awarded to top-performing teams.

As the competition enters its third year, it continues to serve as a hands-on learning opportunity that allows students to apply classroom knowledge in a competitive, professional setting. Past events have featured innovative solutions and strong student engagement, including topics such as the impact of artificial intelligence on the trucking industry, highlighting emerging issues and current industry challenges. The specific business challenge for this year's competition will be revealed to teams at the start of the event.

Mellisa Flanigan, WIT Business and Office Support Instructor and event coordinator, said the competition gives students valuable experience beyond the classroom. "This competition gives students the opportunity to apply what they're learning to real-world business situations they may encounter in the workforce," Flanigan said. "They're working through current industry issues, collaborating as a team, and presenting their ideas in a professional setting. It's the kind of experience that helps students build confidence and strengthen their résumés."

Students interested in gaining practical experience, strengthening collaboration and presentation skills, and competing for cash prizes are encouraged to register by February 1.

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For additional information, contact:
Mellisa Flanigan, Business and Office Support Instructor
mellisa.flanigan@witcc.edu  |  712.317.3326