National Apprenticeship Week celebrates “Superhighway to Good Jobs”

MASON CITY | Students getting paid to get their homework done?  That sounds like a pretty sweet deal!  Registered apprenticeships offer motivated students the opportunity better their lives. In return, employers get dedicated, experienced, highly-trained individuals to meet their staffing needs.

“Registered apprenticeships are one of the most important tools we have to grow our talent pipeline,” said Colleen Frein, President and CEO, Mason City Chamber of Commerce at the North Iowa Commerce Center on Thursday.

Area employers met to discuss experiences with Registered Apprenticeship and how it enhances job quality, elevates access to well-paying positions, and addresses workforce shortages in key sectors at the event which was held in conjunction with National Apprenticeship Week.

51ÁÔÆæ offers apprenticeship opportunities in several areas including Heating and Air Conditioner Installation and Service, Industrial Maintenance, Welding, Carpentry, Phlebotomy and Accounting according to Melinda McGregor, Director of Emerging Workforce Solutions at 51ÁÔÆæ. 

51ÁÔÆæ is currently partnering with nine area employers and has 14 apprentices.

Each program varies in length from one year to four years as outlined by the Department of Labor.

Employers heard real-life experiences from three apprentices who are currently participating in these programs. 

51ÁÔÆæ is committed to expanding opportunities in both credit and non-credit learning.

“The graduation rate for career/technical programs at our college is 98%,” said 51ÁÔÆæ President Dr. Steven Schulz, “When people come to 51ÁÔÆæ and they know what they want to do —they graduate.”

Apprenticeships offer hands-on learning. Students who begin the program will know the career they are pursuing before they begin.

“Our job to help people find their way, save money, get to the workforce quickly and have them build a middle-class lifestyle,” added Schulz.

For questions and/or to be connected with a 51ÁÔÆæ team member that can assist with one of the above Employer Services, contact the Director of Emerging Workforce Solutions.

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When choosing a career in healthcare, the first steps on your journey often pave the way for a prosperous future— and, it’s exciting!

A career in healthcare has boundless twists and turns depending on your interests and passions.

For Andrea Anderson, ARNP, PMHMP – BC, at the Mason City Clinic, that journey began at . 

She began her medical career by enrolling in the 51ÁÔÆæ Certified Nurse Aide (CNA) program, which provided her with the knowledge and skills needed to care for patients in various long-term care facilities. This course also prepares students for the .

The first 55 hours of the course are held in a classroom or lab, and the remaining 30 hours of clinical take place in a nursing home environment.  The academic strategy of combining classroom/lab time with actual hands-on experience boosts the success rate for students. 

“My love of helping others started to flourish while studying to be a CNA at 51ÁÔÆæ.”

Upon completion of the course, Andrea obtained a job as a nurse aide while she continued her educational path through the medical field.  This gave her the upper hand as she studied, learning the skills needed while also applying them in real-life situations at her job.

Students often obtain a next.  A certified medication aide administers non-parenteral medications (anything oral, topical, or suppositories) to patients in health facilities like nursing homes.  At 51ÁÔÆæ, this is a 52-hour course consisting of 42 hours of classroom time, followed by a minimum of 10 clinical hours of experience.  Students often double as CNA’s, providing patient care and administering medications. 

Obtaining an associate degree in nursing is the next step in the journey!  This gives students a solid foundation for a career in healthcare.  Popular among registered nurses, this degree provides opportunities to work in entry-level nursing positions. 

But, Andrea Anderson didn’t stop there.  She used the knowledge gained while at as a stepping stone to further her education.  “51ÁÔÆæ helped me learn how to study and learn time management prior to going to a bigger college,” she stated. 

Upon graduation, Anderson went on to complete her Bachelor of Arts in Psychology, followed by her Bachelor of Nursing at Allen College in Waterloo.  Five years later, she completed her Master of Nursing degree. 

Looking back, Anderson understands the importance of her time spent at 51ÁÔÆæ.  “I highly recommend 51ÁÔÆæ as the first place to start your journey,” Anderson said.  “It is a wonderful place to take general classes in a small setting where the instructors are available when you need help.” 

51ÁÔÆæ prides itself on the progression of nursing students into four-year universities to complete their degrees.  Under the , nursing students can take coursework at 51ÁÔÆæ for three years and then complete their Bachelor of Science in Nursing undergraduate degree in only one year through the University of Iowa online RN-BSN program.  51ÁÔÆæ also has a formalized articulation agreement to complete a baccalaureate degree in Nursing with a slew of prominent universities across the state of Iowa. 

51ÁÔÆæ can help you take the first step on your journey to a successful career in medicine.

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The moment we’ve all been waiting for has finally arrived – we officially open the doors to endless possibilities, creativity, and innovation.

Innovation Workspace leaders were thrilled to have had the , area business leaders, students, community members, and youth join in on the celebration of the Innovation Workspace Grand Opening. The excitement in the room was contagious, as everyone felt the energy of what this center represents.

This Innovation Center is not just a physical space; it’s a hub where ideas come to life, where dreams turn into reality. Workspace staff aims to foster an environment that nurtures creativity, collaboration, and entrepreneurship. Together, you will explore new horizons and push the boundaries of what’s possible.

Stay tuned for exciting events, memberships, and classes designed to unleash your entrepreneurial potential. Follow 51ÁÔÆæ Continuing Education (also known as Business & Workforce Solutions) on social media platforms for announcements about upcoming opportunities.

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51ÁÔÆæ () is thrilled to announce the grand opening of the college’s Innovation Workspace as a division of Business and Workforce Solutions (Formerly known as Continuing Education.)

Innovation workspaces and tools play a crucial role in community colleges by fostering creativity, collaboration, and skill development among students, faculty, and the community. These spaces serve as hubs for innovation and entrepreneurship, providing an environment where individuals can experiment, create, and solve real-world problems.

You now have access to exactly this type of creative workspace right here in North Iowa on the 51ÁÔÆæ campus.

Join your fellow business leaders and hobbyists on July 25 from 11:00 a.m. – 1:00 p.m. in the Careers and Murphy Technology Building on the 51ÁÔÆæ Campus in rooms 128 and 129A/B. Park on the West side of campus for easy access to this location.

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I think it’s safe to say the early years of college when one is finding their way in life and choosing a career, are filled with emotions. 

There’s the excitement of graduation and the thought of living on your own.  Anticipation often creeps in as you meet new people and are forced out of your comfort zone.  Thoughts of anxiety and apprehension are quite common, wondering if you’ve chosen the right career path. 

It’s easy to second-guess yourself.  Sometimes, all it takes is a simple connection for everything to snap into place. 

A relationship.

The correlation between finding your passion and doing what you love.

On April 6^th, 51ÁÔÆæ Continuing Education will host a in the Muse Norris Conference Center.  Any student who is interested in learning more about how to become a professional in the workplace is encouraged to attend. 

The ability to set yourself apart from the crowd has become an integral part of success when comparing yourself to the competition in the workplace.  Standing out often comes from consistent, hard work.  There’s no denying that attitude is a key element to helping you stand out from everyone around you.  Positivity shines so brightly it can be blinding. 

The keynote speaker during the conference, Jason Laube, knows all about hard work.  After receiving his Bachelor’s degree in Health and Human Performance, he worked with a slew of athletes as the Strength and Conditioning coach for 19 varsity sports on campus.  He spent two summers interning for the Kansas City Chiefs before accepting a position with the Amsterdam Admirals of NFL Europe. 

Laube didn’t settle there, though.  He knew there were bigger opportunities for him.  He just had to buckle down and do the work; a life skill he instills in the many athletes he’s trained throughout the years. 

“The number one thing young people need to do is put in the work,” he stated.  “Part of the process is learning we’ve all been there and done that.”

After Europe, Jason obtained his Master of Education degree in Exercise Physiology & Sports Nutrition from the University of Minnesota.  While there, he continued his career path as the Assistant Strength and Conditioning Coach for the Gopher football team.  From there, he took a position with Velocity Sports Performance where he ran camps and provided training to high school and professional athletes. 

He moved to Clear Lake in 2007 and made a dream come true by opening Cutting Edge Fitness.  For the past twelve years, he has made it his mission to provide the highest quality training for high school athletes, college athletes, and community members. 

Along with operating the gym, Jason currently serves as the Director of Strength and Conditioning at Waldorf University.  In this position, he is responsible for 480 student-athletes across 22 varsity sports programs.  Since his arrival, all sports have seen an increase in results, with some recording the best year in history. 

51ÁÔÆæ students have the opportunity of a lifetime in hearing him speak.  His passion doesn’t just apply to athletes or those looking to get in shape.  Dedication, work ethic, and a positive attitude can be used in any career path. 

Jason knows the importance of positivity.  Whether that is in the workplace, in sports, or in life.  “Having the mindset of wanting more and being better is how you will separate yourself from the rest of them,” he said. 

The is a great opportunity for 51ÁÔÆæ students to learn ways to develop leadership skills and work ethic to catapult their career path to the next level.  Hearing Jason Laube speak about his journey to success and his testimony for reaching goals is something you definitely don’t want to miss!

Check out all of the conference speakers and their topics, then

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Water is a vital resource for all communities; specifically, clean water.

The round pools of wastewater treatment plants are thankfully a common sight in cities and towns across our region, state, and country.

The technicians responsible for the daily safety of our community water systems need the most up-to-date training opportunities to maintain their local water facilities and 51ÁÔÆæ (51ÁÔÆæ) offers just that.

On Thursday, April 13, in partnership with the (IAWEA) Region 2 Board, 51ÁÔÆæ is hosting the Spring 2023 Wastewater Conference.

The Spring conference features a update from Sheila Bly, a Lagoons roundtable discussion, recognition of the 10^th Anniversary of the Nutrient Reduction Strategy, the IAWEA business meeting, Confined Space: Lessons Learned from the Real World, and a presentation from Scott Obernolte about the design implementation and operation of low-pressure sewer systems.

“Operator training is essential and 51ÁÔÆæ offers spring and fall conferences right here in Mason City to meet the needs of Region 2 water and wastewater operators.” 

Sheila Bly, Environmental Specialist Senior | Iowa Department of Natural Resources

Those interested in attending the conference can learn more and register on .

51ÁÔÆæ offers a vast amount of training for local communities, businesses, and individuals. From training that provides CEUs, such as the Spring 2023 Region 2 Wastewater Conference, to classes to —check out all of your continued education options!

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Being a woman isn’t easy.  We are constantly jumping through hoops and overcoming barriers to reach the same level of success as men.  It has taken decades of toughness and grit to prove our worth in the world. 

Because we want to have it all. 

The United States Academy of International Development agrees.  “When women do better, countries do better, communities do better, and families do better.” 

Women’s events are a celebration of womanhood.  Attendees of a women’s conference benefit both personally and professionally.  Those looking to advance their careers gain valuable networking and professional development opportunities.  It is a great place for women to come together and share their experiences, knowledge, and support. 

Sounds amazing, right?

Good thing you can get this top-notch event right here in North Iowa!

51ÁÔÆæ plans to host the from 1:00 pm to 4:30 pm in the Muse Norris Conference Center.  Women will have the chance to network and mingle with other professionals.  So, close up all the open tabs in your workspace and grab your tribe.  This is one seminar you don’t want to miss!

Three incredible speakers are scheduled to share their experience, knowledge, and expertise on how YOU can reach your highest potential.  Many women tend to put everyone else’s needs in front of their own. 

Kayla Baker and Nick Kuhle will discuss the expectations of women in our society and how they can lead to burnout, frustration, and resentment.  They will guide attendants through the process of putting themselves first and why it is NOT selfish to do so. 

International speaker, Desi Payne, will then take the stage to explain how one simple adjustment of our mindset can change everything. Oftentimes, it is the little voice inside our head telling us we can’t, or we shouldn’t.  You don’t need to silence it, but instead, flip the narrative so it tells you all the ways you can and should. 

Kara Ruge, Director of Marketing & Public Relations at Clear Lake Bank & Trust, attended the Women’s Day Empowerment Seminar last year with a few of her colleagues.  She enjoys meeting other North Iowa women and thought the seminar would be a great way to grow herself both personally and professionally. 

“I loved the feeling I walked away with,” Kara recalls. “I felt lighter, more relaxed, and content. I was motivated to come beck to the office and achieve goals I thought were out of my grasp.”

Women’s events are the perfect opportunity to celebrate being a female and having fun. 

Kara agrees.  “One key element I took away last year was while our daily duties may seem high stress, busy, and like we are not ‘enough’ in all areas, we need to take time to pause.  Women do so many amazing things every day.  We need to take a moment to pat ourselves on the back!”

Women of North Iowa, it’s time to rise up and embrace our superpower!

Check out this page for more information or to register:  .  Be sure to bring your business card for networking and door prizes.  Light snacks and refreshments will be provided.  If you are a current 51ÁÔÆæ credit student, call Continuing Education at 641-422-4358 to ask about the limited number of scholarships available to cover the cost of tuition for this class. 

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An apprentice is defined as a person who is learning a job or trade from a skilled employer.  Becoming an apprentice is a great way to get on a career pathway that will help fast-track professional goals, avoid massive debt, and earn a competitive wage.

Apprenticeship is an industry-driven, high-quality form of learning.  While getting hands-on experience on the job, apprentices spend at least 20% of their working hours completing classroom-based learning with a college or training provider.

All their time – including classroom hours – are paid.

While apprenticeships are ideal for those wanting to earn while they learn, they are highly beneficial to employers as well.  Apprenticeships are valuable to employers because they can tailor their program to meet their current needs.  As they develop and prepare the future workforce, they can customize instruction to ensure the apprentice learns exactly what they need to perform the job.

A few key benefits highlighted for employers are:

• To recruit and develop diverse and highly skilled workers
• To improve productivity and profitability
• They create flexible training options to ensure workers develop the right skills
• Reduce turnover, improve loyalty, and retain top talent
• It demonstrates an investment in the community

Employers also have the option to register their program with the U.S. Department of Labor to show prospective job seekers their apprenticeship program meets national quality standards.  The state of Iowa has grants available for businesses interested in starting this type of program.

On November 16^th, the 51ÁÔÆæ Business and Workforce Solutions (Formerly known as Continuing Education), held an Apprenticeship Breakfast in conjunction with the .  The purpose of the event was to connect local employers from around the region and learn about how apprenticeships can best build their workforce pipeline.

Mayor Bill Schickel proclaimed November 14^th through the 20^th officially “National Apprenticeship Week” in Mason City.  He recognized the efforts of and their push to grow the apprenticeship program to secure upcoming workforce for the future.

Patti Hanson, 51ÁÔÆæ Dean of Continuing Education stated, “While we are thrilled to recognize National Apprenticeship Week, we celebrate apprenticeships all year long.”  51ÁÔÆæ currently offers apprentice programs for welding, carpentry, industrial maintenance and phlebotomy.

While apprenticeship programs go all the way back to the Middle Ages, they have only been registered within the state of Iowa for the past 85 years.  Kyle Whitaker, an Apprenticeship & Training Representative for the state of Iowa, gave a rundown of the numbers for apprentice programs.  In Iowa, there are currently:

*890 Registered Apprenticeship Programs (33 of which are served by 51ÁÔÆæ)

*1988 Employers providing positions

*204 High School students as registered apprentices

*9730 active registered apprentices within the state of Iowa

“This program gives folks the opportunity to have their education path lumped together with work-based learning,” Kyle stated.  “It is a great avenue for someone looking to get right into it and start their career.”

Typically, apprentice programs are designed in trade-related fields, but across the state of Iowa, there are several available for teachers, information technology, healthcare, barbers & cosmetology, retail and agriculture.  Some programs are completed within a year, while others can take as long as 4-5 years.

51ÁÔÆæ works closely with local companies to ensure the students have the courses they need and are getting the proper allotment of time for work experience, classes and study time.  Looking at the workforce, local meat processing plant, Smithfield, knew their pool of candidates for upcoming job openings would not fill their demands.  They utilized the apprenticeship program at 51ÁÔÆæ in order to “grow their own employees” tailored to their specific needs.

Apprenticeship is not a hand-out.  Yes, the company will pay for time worked and the cost of classes, but the dedication to the program falls heavily on the students’ shoulders.  It’s a big commitment, but one that is worth it in the end.

For companies looking to establish or grow their own apprenticeship programs, contact Melinda McGregor, 51ÁÔÆæ Director of Emerging Workforce Solutions at Melinda.mcGregor@niacc.edu.

Collaboration is key for North Iowa to survive the workforce shortage.  Communication between high schools, businesses, 51ÁÔÆæ and the entire community is what will ultimately pull our region together to ensure we stay a thriving economic force.

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National Manufacturing Week is celebrated the first week of October in the United States.  Many companies, however, celebrate the profession for the entire month.  It is a chance for manufacturers to open their doors and let students see first-hand what happens within their walls. Some companies use the opportunity to showcase the potential career possibilities and foster interest in the field.

Why is advanced manufacturing important?

To stay relevant in today’s marketplace, it takes a competitive advantage.  Companies are constantly finding ways to produce goods and materials quicker and cheaper, making their bottom-line increase at a drastic pace.

Technology is the key proponent in advanced manufacturing.  As technologies have become more innovative, advanced manufacturing technology also improves.  This creates better products and streamlines the processes used to create them. And just think, new technologies are being developed every day.  People thinking outside the box, finding innovative ways to increase production and decrease costs. So where can we find all these potential employees to think outside the box?

Thankfully, has a solution to solve that problem!

On the morning of October 12^th, 51ÁÔÆæ students in the skilled trades programs were invited to attend the Advanced Manufacturing Breakfast.  They were able to enjoy the delicious morning meal while having round table discussions with area employers.  After 15-20 minutes at one table, the students rotated to another table so they could meet with each company representative and discuss potential career options in North Iowa.

The purpose of this event was to celebrate National Advanced Manufacturing Week.  It’s also a great opportunity to connect 51ÁÔÆæ students with employers in the industry, giving them an idea of the kind of opportunities available and networking with area professionals in the field.

As North Iowa faces a slew of workforce challenges due to an aging population, events like this are instrumental for the emerging workforce in our area by putting them into fantastic .

During the Advanced Manufacturing Breakfast, two students received job offers right there on the spot!

Many manufacturing jobs are listed under the ‘skilled trades’ category – a sector excels in.  Traditional manufacturing is thought of as taking raw materials and creating a product that adds value.  Advanced manufacturing, however, is the practice of using innovative technologies and methods to improve a company’s ability to be competitive in the manufacturing sector.

The purpose of advanced manufacturing is to streamline activity and create a more efficient operation.  It can be found in just about every industry, including electric vehicles, robotics, air structures, medical devices, pharmaceuticals, high volume goods, rapid prototyping and many more.

Manufacturing and product development is highly encouraged for people who like to work with their minds and hands. High-tech manufacturing continues to grow, especially in the areas of 3-D printing, and high-speed, computerized numerical control machining.

There are currently 373 advanced manufacturing jobs listed for Iowa on Indeed.com.  According to zippia.com, the career expert website, “Advanced manufacturing engineers can make $90,343 per year on average in the United States.

Skilled Trades Programs

Future Ready Iowa Scholarship Opportunities

Learn More- Visit Campus

Apply Today!

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Being an entrepreneur is more than simply owning your own business.  You are building something tangible out of an idea.  It takes extreme dedication and relentless hard work to become a sustainable business, especially without the support of a parent company or big industry to back your concepts.

Thinking outside of the box is an attribute not everyone possesses.  The ability to take a notion and morph it into a successful business venture is rare.  It’s also risky.  Failure lingers at every turn, threatening to put an end to lifelong dreams.  But if you can handle the risk, the reward is beyond worth it.

Younger people today are more apt to challenge older ideas.  They bring a creative, open-minded perspective to many aspects within the business world.

It’s only fitting, then, to provide them with the tools to reach those dreams and give them a chance at success.

51ÁÔÆæ, along with the John Pappajohn Entrepreneurial Center, conducts the Youth Entrepreneurial Academy each year which encourages high school students to launch their own business ideas and offers an opportunity to earn the seed money to do so.  The Academy exposes students to entrepreneurship, gives them the chance to apply their skills and creativity, helps them understand critical thinking, and gives them the power to become a “job creator” instead of a “job taker.”

The 5-day Academy concludes with a Pitch Competition, where students compete for cash prizes.  Every participant will receive a $500 51ÁÔÆæ scholarship.  They also receive gas cards to pay for the week’s travel from their homes or are welcome to stay at 51ÁÔÆæ Campus View Student Housing for the week.

The program is free for all in attendance thanks to the generous support from the John K. and Luise V. Hanson Foundation.

An opportunity he’ll never forget.

Christopher Molander

The Youth Entrepreneurial Academy was nothing new for Christopher Molander, as he had participated in it for previous business ventures.  It was at a friend’s house, however, where he discovered his intrigue of beekeeping.  After countless hours of research, he crossed paths with another local beekeeper, Richard Vonderhoe, who also happened to be the President of the North Iowa Beekeepers Club.  This was a great first step as it opened doors to meeting new people and receiving additional insight to begin his business.

He continued his research, soaking up as much knowledge from colleagues and contacts as possible.  It was when he got the bees, however, when he realized there was still a lot to learn.

“There is something new to learn every day,” he stated. “I love the challenge and excitement of it, but I knew I still needed more guidance.”

He then enrolled in 51ÁÔÆæ Continuing Education’s Basics and Business Beekeeping certificate class, which provided additional insight from teachers and other bee enthusiasts.  In the summer of 2022, he also participated in the YEA program through 51ÁÔÆæ and the Pappajohn Center, where he was awarded seed money for his beekeeping business, Liquid Gold.

In a few weeks, he will be extracting honey from his three hives, something he is very excited about.

“It’s been a successful first season,” Molander said.  “And I’m excited to continue.”

Christopher’s path led him from idea to reality.  Like any entrepreneurial trail to success, it wasn’t quick or easy.  It took dedication and hard work.  Thankfully, he found the right tools to help him along the way – 51ÁÔÆæ and the Pappajohn Entrepreneurial Center.

To learn more about this incredible opportunity for young entrepreneurs, visit .  It might be just what you need to jumpstart your dream to success.

Also, watch for opportunities to expand your horizons through 51ÁÔÆæ Continuing Education’s Business & Workforce Solutions and classes.

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