IT + Ice Cream: Technology Powers Ice Cream Production in Iowa

Harnessing technology, Wells Enterprises, headquartered in Le Mars, Iowa for more than 110 years, stands as not only Iowa’s premier ice cream powerhouse, but an industry leader. To lead the industry from the heart of the Midwest and bring sweet frozen treats to freezers across the country has allowed Le Mars to claim the Ice Cream Capital of the World title and employee some of the brightest in the category.

In this special session, speaker and ISU alumna, Jasen Heaton, will share how the company leverages state-of-the-art automation, data analytics, and innovative manufacturing techniques to produce top-quality ice cream at impressive scale. Through robotics, cybersecurity, and cloud computing, Wells has not only optimized production, but energized customers, consumers and the industry.

This event offers a behind-the-scenes look at how Wells Enterprises transforms technology into tangible results. Mr. Heaton will share insights into technology in the consumer-packaged goods industry and how the Wells’ technology teams works cross-functionally, from finance to freezer, to help create and distribute frozen treats. Whether you’re passionate about technology, leadership, innovation, or you’re an ice cream fan, don’t miss this chance to learn how Iowa’s own Wells Enterprises is shaping the future of frozen treats, close to home.

About Jasen Heaton, Senior Director of Shared Serivces

Jasen Heaton, Senior Director of Shared Services at Wells Enterprises – the maker of Blue Bunny, Bomb Pop and Halo Top - has over 20 years of experience in technology, business support, merger and acquisition integrations, and eating ice cream for breakfast. Jasen has a degree in Management Information Systems and is also a 2023 graduate of the Iowa Technology Leadership. As a member of the Wells’ IT Leadership Team, he has responsibility for all Shared Services - including Accounts Payable, Accounts Receivable, Payroll, Master Data Management, Claims and Trade, Customer Service, Robotic Process Automation, and Electronic Data Interchange. He also prides himself in driving positive company culture. He serves as the executive sponsor for the Emerging Leaders employee resource group and assists with employee campaigns for United Way and the local Feeding America chapter. Jasen and his wife Amy grew up in the Sioux City, Iowa area and still live and work in Siouxland. With a passion for helping kids, he coached multiple youth sports team for many years. He has also been involved with Big Brothers Big Sisters of Siouxland for six years and is on a 5+ year match with his Little Brother.

Jasen, his wife, and son Keegan, are all proud graduates of the Iowa State University – Go Cyclones!