As a child growing up in Colombia, Humberto Vergara dreamed of becoming a scientist and an inventor. Now, remembering his boyhood ambition, he says, “I do feel like that dream came true.”

The Iowa Institute for Hydraulic Research’s work can be seen around the world, but its biggest impact is felt closer to home. What started as a small lab at the University of Iowa has grown into a leader in the world of hydroscience and a multidisciplinary hub that is recognized internationally. Its team of researchers and engineers are called upon for projects related to fluid mechanics, hydraulics, water, air and resource conservation.