Matthew Pothoff

Matthew Pothoff, a lifelong resident of Dubuque County, has always embraced a life filled with varied interests that reflect his passion for sports, history, and the outdoors. Growing up in Epworth, Iowa, his first love was baseball, a sport he played until he was 19. Throughout high school, his passion for athletics extended to football, basketball, and tennis. These experiences honed his physical abilities and instilled in him the importance of perseverance, teamwork, and dedication. Today, he continues to support his favorite professional teams, including the St. Louis Cardinals, Green Bay Packers, and Cleveland Cavaliers, following their games with unwavering enthusiasm. Matthew works as a paint line laborer at a metal fabrication company, applying coatings to metal products. This role requires excellent attention to detail and the ability to meet precise quality standards, which he excels at. Before entering the metal fabrication field, he worked in the automotive industry from May 2016 to August 2018, gaining valuable hands-on experience. This role allowed him to develop teamwork and problem-solving skills, which he continues to use in his current job, ensuring that each product is handled carefully. Matthew’s academic journey led him to study Criminal Justice at Hawkeye Community College, where he strengthened his understanding of ethics, responsibility, and fairness. His education helped shape the core principles that guide his personal and professional life, emphasizing the importance of ethical decisions. These values continue influencing his actions and interactions, allowing him to approach work and life fairly and respectfully. Sports have remained a central aspect of Matthew’s life, providing physical activity and valuable lessons beyond the field. His early experiences with baseball, football, basketball, and tennis helped him develop a strong work ethic and a deep appreciation for teamwork.