EICC Employee Training and Professional Development Newsletter | October 2025
Stronger businesses. Stronger communities.
At Eastern Iowa Community Colleges (EICC), we’ve been helping businesses train and develop their employees for decades.
Our high-quality training enhances skills, boosts productivity, and develops strong leaders. It’s all part of what we do as THE Community’s College.
Our expert-led courses, workshops, and certifications are designed to meet the unique needs of your organization, helping your team stay competitive and excel in today’s fast-paced workplace. Whatever your goals, we have the training solutions to help your business thrive.
PROFESSIONAL DEVELOPMENT
Gain a competitive edge in the workplace. Your workforce. Your success. Our mission.
CUSTOMIZED OPTIONS
Create a program that meets your team’s goals.
Funding may be available to help with your company’s training needs through Economic Workforce Development Funds:
⊲ Iowa Industrial New Jobs Training Program (260E) Supports businesses that are creating new jobs or relocating to Iowa.
S⊲ Iowa Jobs Training Program (260F) Provides state-funded forgivable loans or grants to Iowa businesses for the training and development of their existing employees.
To learn more, scan the QR code or visit eicc.edu/trainingfunds
ince joining EICC on July 1, I’ve been learning about Eastern Iowa’s industries, residents, and priorities. What I’ve seen aligns perfectly with my expectations: this is a region that places a high value on hard work, collaboration, and results.
There is a strong sense of momentum across our campuses and communities, and I am excited to join a team that is actively leading change. At EICC, we approach workforce training as a partner, carefully listening and responding to your needs.
I’ve dedicated my career to community colleges because I believe in the mission. Workforce training represents the intersection of education and genuine opportunity. By facilitating the development of essential skills in individuals, we not only enhance their circumstances but also contribute to the success of the local business community by cultivating a more skilled workforce.
In this newsletter, you’ll see how EICC implements its mission. We introduce new leadership in manufacturing. We highlight an exciting initiative with HNI that integrates English language learning with workplace-specific skills, building greater confidence and improving job performance.
We work closely with employers to tailor solutions to address genuine needs. This fall, please join us at Business & Industry Forums where we will discuss findings from our recent employer survey and provide you with an opportunity to shape our future.
I’m excited to learn more about the region and build relationships within the communities we serve. Reach out if you want to discuss workforce needs, customized training, or share restaurant recommendations.
Thank you for your support.
Bryan Renfro, PhD Chancellor, Eastern Iowa Community Colleges
Featured Upcoming Classes, Oct.–Dec. 2025
HNI Brings English Instruction to Work
At HNI Workplace Furnishings, employees are at the center of everything. So, when leaders saw an opportunity to help more team members participate fully and confidently in daily operations, they acted.
In fall 2024, HNI partnered with Eastern Iowa Community Colleges (EICC) to launch a pilot English Language Acquisition (ELA) program tailored for its manufacturing workforce. The customized classes were offered onsite and during paid hours.
“This is about helping employees build confidence so they can engage more fully—not just here at work, but also in their families and communities,” said Gabby Aguilar-Xolo, HNI outreach coordinator and SOMOS leader. “We wanted to go beyond translation support and invest in long-term growth and inclusion.”
The first 10-week course enrolled 36 participants. Twenty of them chose to complete a second 10-week, more advanced session. Classes were designed to accommodate production schedules while delivering focused instruction: two hours, twice a week, plus about two hours of online learning outside of work.
For employees like Dayana Vargas, an advanced machine operator with 10 years at HNI, the impact was empowering.
“Before, if something went wrong on the line, I would ask someone else to explain,” Vargas said. “Now, I can do it myself. I feel comfortable talking with maintenance, supervisors, anyone.”
That confidence has extended far beyond the plant floor. “With my kids’ schools, at the store—everywhere, I feel more comfortable,” she added.
Aguilar-Xolo said Vargas is not alone. One Turkish-speaking employee, who interviewed using Google Translate in early 2024, completed a mock interview in English by spring 2025. And, a manager said a team member who used to respond only with smiles or nods now initiates conversations, asks clarifying questions, and engages with peers.
HNI’s investment goes beyond the basics: classes took place in dedicated learning spaces and were scheduled to avoid disrupting production or adding to employees’ after-hours responsibilities.
The graduation ceremony reflected the program’s impact on morale. Leadership turned out in force to recognize participants’ achievements, and employees proudly took certificates home to their families.
“It was very emotional and rewarding,” Aguilar-Xolo said. “Some participants
didn’t expect a formal certificate. The fact that they proudly showed it to their children—that’s powerful.”
The company now plans to expand ELA offerings to its downtown Muscatine facilities, making classes accessible to more employees. The program’s inclusivity will extend beyond Spanish speakers. The next cohort will include employees who speak French, Hakka Chin, Ukrainian and other languages—reflecting the diversity of its workforce.
HNI emphasized that return on investment far outweighs the expense, and noted that EICC’s program operates with grant support that minimizes financial barriers for employers.
“It’s absolutely worth the investment,” Aguilar-Xolo said.
For Vargas, the program has sparked new ambitions. “I’m looking for the next level in my career,” she said with a smile.
The ELA program has helped HNI employees feel seen, valued, and included—creating stronger teams and strengthening the community as a whole.
“Language is probably the biggest piece,” Aguilar-Xolo said. “If you can communicate, you can talk to your coworker, share lunch, ask questions—you feel part of the team.”
Integrated Education and Training (IET) Program | Customized English Language Acquisition + Workplace Skills
Non-native English speakers are essential contributors in manufacturing, and language gaps can hinder their ability to fully participate. IET bridges that gap, embedding English instruction into job-specific assets for faster learning and immediate impact.
Interested in bringing customized English classes onsite for your workforce? Contact EICC’s Office of Continuing Education at 1-888-336-3907.
⊲ Customized curriculum: Lessons tailored to your company’s real documents and procedures.
⊲ Onsite, flexible delivery: Schedules built around shift patterns and production needs.
⊲ Short, focused cohorts: Eight to ten weeks, 40+ hours of instruction.
⊲ Measurable outcomes: Pre- and post-testing track participants’ growth.
Apprenticeship Training
Hiring is tough, and keeping talent is even tougher. Apprenticeships can help you build a pipeline of skilled workers, trained to meet your specific needs. With EICC as your partner, you get classroom training that turns new hires into confident, capable employees who stay. Our classroom training fits into a registered apprenticeship. Your employees split time between the job site and the classroom, learning technical skills that directly support their day-to-day work. Whether you use existing courses or request something custom, we keep the instruction practical and focused.
EICC has federally approved standards in place for these high-demand roles:
⊲ Machinist
⊲ Industrial Maintenance Technician
⊲ Maintenance Electrician
⊲ Maintenance Mechanic
⊲ Mechatronics Technician
⊲ Tool and Die Maker
⊲ Welding Technician
⊲ Quality Control Technician
⊲ CNC Machinist
⊲ CNC Operator
⊲ Robotics Technician
⊲ Industrial Manufacturing Technician
You train on the job. We take care of the classroom. Learn more at eicc.edu/apprenticeship ⊲
Meet Your New Workforce Partner
EICC is committed to offering responsive, relevant workforce programs that address the evolving needs of local industries. Meet the newest member of our team:
Michal-Marie Tillotson, Advanced Manufacturing Program Manager
Tillotson has a strong understanding of manufacturing environments and workforce needs. Her career has spanned technical sales, automation, and account management, including managing national accounts for Amazon and working directly with manufacturers of robotics, conveyors, and industrial automation systems.
Tillotson will work closely with advanced manufacturing businesses to identify skill gaps, design responsive training programs, and help companies upskill their teams. She emphasizes approachability and partnership: “I want every business—even if they think it’s an outrageous request—to still throw it our way and see if we can do it.” Her goal is to ensure EICC provides practical, employer-aligned solutions that strengthen teams and help businesses succeed.
& Industry Forums
Thank you to the many businesses that shared insights through our Workforce Development and Training Survey. Now, we invite you to take the next step and join us at one of four upcoming Business & Industry Forums. This is your opportunity to review the survey results, add your voice, and help shape the future of workforce training in our region.
Forum dates:
⊲ Wednesday, Oct. 1
7 a.m.–12 p.m.
Muscatine Community College
⊲ Friday, Oct. 3
7 a.m.–12 p.m.
DeWitt Career Advancement Center
⊲ Monday, Oct. 13
7 a.m.–12 p.m.
Clinton Community College
⊲ Thursday, Oct. 16
7 a.m.–12 p.m.
Scott Community College
Your feedback ensures that the training programs we develop remain responsive and relevant. Whether your business is in manufacturing, healthcare, construction, transportation, education, agriculture—or anywhere in between—your experience and expertise are essential. Together, we will build the workforce you need and grow our regional economy.
Stay in the Know Between Issues
We get it—things move fast. That’s why we share updates on LinkedIn between each issue of this newsletter. From new training opportunities to behind-the-scenes looks at how local businesses are upskilling their teams, it’s the best way to keep up with what’s happening in continuing education at EICC.
Tell us a little about yourself.
I grew up on a sheep farm in Ohio, the youngest of five. I’ve been married for 33 years, and my husband and I operate a grain farm in Illinois City and Muscatine. I hold an AAS in Feed & Fertilizer Marketing from Muscatine Community College and a BA from Western Illinois University.
Your Partner in Workforce Training: Katie Watson
I’ve spent more than 30 years at EICC, with roles in admissions, advanced manufacturing programs, and now as a Business Solutions Consultant helping companies upskill their workforce.
What’s a key lesson you’ve learned through your work?
Change is constant so don’t get too comfortable. Employees are much more fluid now, so you need to flex and adapt to different personality types and leadership styles. Our training helps companies who are experiencing the same challenges.
Why do you enjoy being part of the Business Solutions team?
We’re in it for the right reasons: to help companies train and retain great workers. I love seeing how so many products are made and take pride in that supportive role.
EICC BUSINESS SOLUTIONS CONSULTANT
What’s one message you would share with businesses?
Lean into the support EICC and the state provide. You aren’t alone. EICC’s Workforce Division currently serves 262 businesses across the region. We can share best practices and assume some of the stress associated with scheduling and affording training. Our role is to provide long-term solutions and business culture improvement.
What’s a common misconception about state funding for training?
The documentation can seem overwhelming, but I help companies manage it so they can focus on production. We assist with everything from documenting training to submitting claims, aligning plans with corporate goals, and showcasing the important work our clients do.
Customized solutions for your business.
At EICC, we know one size doesn’t fit all. That’s why we offer a wide range of training solutions tailored to meet the unique needs of your organization. Whether you’re looking to enhance employee skills or get the most value from your training investment, we’ve got you covered. Many of our public courses have been shaped by the needs of businesses like yours. Contact us today to learn how we can support your team’s growth.
Setting up customized training is as easy as 1-2-3:
1. We’ll start with a conversation to understand your organization’s needs. 2. Next, we’ll create a training plan that outlines goals, course content, hours, and a timeline.
3. Finally, we’ll deliver the training at one of our campuses or a location that works best for you.
Give us a call to learn how we can help your business.
⊲ Clinton: 563-244-7020
⊲ Muscatine: 563-288-6012
⊲ Quad Cities: 563-441-4360
Can you share a recent success story?
A small privately owned company needed to expand but didn’t know how to afford or manage the change. We helped them secure grants that allowed them to nearly double their workforce, train employees, improve workflow, and provide leadership training for frontline supervisors.
Anything else you’d like to add?
I’ve stayed at EICC for over 30 years because I believe in the community college mission. We meet people where they are and give them tools to achieve the next level, whether that’s a degree, skills training, or career advancement.
