Ernst Names Small Business of the Week, Iron Horse Aviation

RED OAK, Iowa – ­­­­­­U.S. Senator Joni Ernst (R-Iowa), Chair of the Senate Small Business Committee, today announced her Small Business of the Week: Iron Horse Aviation of Jasper County. Throughout the 119th Congress, Chair Ernst plans to recognize a small business in each of Iowa’s 99 counties.

“Iron Horse Aviation is soaring proof of the grit, discipline, and service that define our nation’s veterans,” said Chair Ernst. “Founded in 2016, Colt and Emily Zesch have propelled their vision into a business that not only provides world-class aviation services but also lands firmly on the values of faith, family, and country. During National Veterans Small Business Week, I’m honored to recognize the Zeschs’ leadership and dedication.”

Founded in 2016 by U.S. Army veteran Colt Zesch and his wife Emily, Iron Horse Aviation is a family-owned aviation company headquartered in Newton, Iowa. What began as a small operation has grown into a trusted provider of specialized aerial services across the Midwest and beyond. Colt, a fifth-generation Iowa farmer and former member of the 82nd Airborne Infantry Division, brings decades of military and operational experience to the business.

Driven by their passion to serve others, the Zeschs also founded the Iron Horse Guardians Foundation, a nonprofit that maintains a ready helicopter fleet for life-saving humanitarian missions. The foundation continues Colt’s lifelong commitment to service by supporting search and rescue efforts, disaster relief, and supply delivery.

Stay tuned as Chair Ernst continues to recognize outstanding Iowa small businesses with her Small Business of the Week award.

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