Dave Koehler holds a Bachelor of Arts from Yankton College and a Master of Divinity from United Theological Seminary. He began his career in community service, working for the National Farm Worker Ministry across multiple states. Koehler transitioned to community organizing in Peoria, Illinois, where he later became executive director of the Peoria Area Labor Management Council. He has served on the Peoria County Board and Peoria City Council, including a term as Mayor Pro Tem. Koehler has been a long-serving member of the Illinois Senate, where he has sponsored legislation on education and economic issues. He co-founded the Peoria Bread Company with his wife, Nora Sullivan.

Dave Koehler combines a unique blend of labor advocacy with surprising policy stances, such as supporting pension reform alongside progressive plant-based lunch options in schools. His background in labor management and healthcare positions him to bridge typically opposing interests, as seen in his legislative efforts. Koehler's approach often reveals unexpected coalitions, hinting at a deeply localized strategy that prioritizes regional economic stability and community welfare.