Business and Workforce Solutions Catalog: 2025 - 2026 by niacc_marketing

Business and Workforce Solutions

Here at NIACC, we are dedicated to empowering individuals and organizations through innovative education and training programs. Our diverse range of offerings, from customized training for businesses to Workforce Academy programs and professional development opportunities, is designed to meet the evolving needs of our community. Whether you’re looking to enhance your skills, explore new career paths, or develop your workforce, our expert team is here to support your journey. Join us as we pave the way for a brighter, more prosperous future for North Iowa.

Business Partnership: A Collaborative Approach to Workforce Training

Business Partnership is a membership program geared toward boosting employee leadership, motivation, retention, communication skills, and more. Members have access to multiple, high-quality training programs led by top-ranked national and regional speakers.

Business Partners Enjoy These Valuable Benefits:

Affordable, High-Quality Training

Get access to top-tier professional development at a fraction of the cost — in fact, the annual membership fee is often less than the cost of bringing in just one speaker.

Wide Range of Professional Development Topics

Choose from a diverse selection of training sessions designed to benefit employees at all levels. Topics have included leadership, human resources, communication, and more. Each year, member companies help select the training topics that matter most to them, ensuring relevant and impactful content.

Flexible and Convenient Delivery

Participate in training through multiple formats — attend in person at NIACC, join live-streamed sessions, or access recorded sessions at your convenience for two weeks after the event.

Valuable Networking Opportunities

Connect with other professionals in your community, share ideas, and build relationships that support your business growth.

Customized On-Site Training

Take advantage of the opportunity to bring national speakers directly to your business and collaborate with NIACC to create training tailored specifically to your team’s needs.

Membership Details

Companies with less than 20 employees

$750+ $5 for each full-time employee annually; cap at $2,500

Companies with 20+ full-time employees

$1,500 + $5 for each full-time equivalent employee annually; cap at $5,000

Email business.partnership@ niacc.edu or talk to your NIACC Customized Training Program Developer.

Customized Training for Business Success

Empower Your Team. Strengthen Your Business. We partner with local businesses to deliver customized training solutions that address your unique workforce needs. From onboarding new employees to upskilling your current team, our programs are designed to improve performance, boost productivity, and help your company stay competitive. We work closely with you from consultation to completion, ensuring tailored training aligns with your business objectives and delivers measurable outcomes from expert instructors.

BUSINESS SPOTLIGHT – CABIN COFFEE

More Than Coffee

From its roots in Clear Lake, Iowa, to its expansion across the country, Cabin Coffee Company has always been about more than just coffee. With a mission to foster a “Just Be Happy… and Have Fun” environment, this specialty coffeehouse and roastery has become a beloved destination for commuters, families, and professionals alike. But behind the warm smiles and rich coffee blends lies a business committed to excellence, growth, and strong leadership.

Cabin Coffee, founded in 2002 and now operating multiple franchised locations, recognized that with growth comes new challenges. As their team expanded and their services evolved - adding a mobile app, in-house roasting, and enhanced franchisee support - so did the need for consistent leadership practices and clear communication across their organization. That’s when Cabin Coffee turned to NIACC’s Business and Workforce Solutions team. A proud NIACC alum himself, Vice President Robert Barber (Class of 2004) had long been familiar with the college’s offerings, but it was through direct collaboration with the Continuing Education team that Cabin Coffee found a tailored solution to fit their needs.

NIACC worked closely with Cabin Coffee to develop customized leadership development and communication training for their management team.

“The planning process was extremely collaborative,” said Barber. “NIACC really made the effort to align the training with our culture and goals.” The results were immediate and meaningful. Managers walked away with practical tools and a renewed sense of confidence. Team members reported stronger communication, improved problem-solving, and a deeper sense of camaraderie. “We’ve seen more proactive leadership and smoother daily operations,” Barber shared. “The feedback from our staff was overwhelmingly positive.”

Unexpectedly, the training sessions also helped build interdepartmental trust and connection - an added bonus that continues to strengthen Cabin Coffee’s internal culture. “We would absolutely work with NIACC again,” Barber affirmed. “Their team is knowledgeable, responsive, and truly invested in the success of our people and our business.” For companies seeking to invest in their team and tackle growth-related challenges, Barber offers simple advice: “Don’t hesitate. NIACC will meet you where you’re at and help you create real, lasting impact.” Thanks to their partnership with NIACC, Cabin Coffee is more prepared than ever to keep growing - one cup, one customer, and one empowered leader at a time.

NIACC Workforce Academy

NIACC Workforce Academy offers entry-level programs designed to equip you with the hirable skills needed to succeed in today’s job market. With an accelerated schedule, our programs are perfect for individuals who want to quickly transition or enter into the workforce. Gain practical, indemand skills and start your new career journey with confidence.

Foundational Courses

Start with entry-level classes that require no prior experience.

Job-Ready Skills

Acquire the practical, in-demand skills that employers seek.

Fast-Track Programs

Benefit from an accelerated schedule, with many programs allowing you to graduate with a certificate in less than a semester!

Workforce-Oriented

Ideal for individuals who need to enter the job market promptly.

Student Support Available

Connect with Education to Employment for academic, career, and personal support. Tuition assistance may also be available! For more information about Education to Employment services, please visit page 16.

NIACC Workforce Academy Program Offerings

Health & Human Services

Child Care Ready

Coaching Authorization

Emergency Medical Technician

Human Services Direct Support

Nurse Aide

Paraeducator Certification

Patient Access

Phlebotomy

Technology & IT

IT Essentials: CompTIA A+

Network Essentials: CompTIA Security+

Scan here to fill out our interest form!

Specialized Services & Careers

Professional Dog Grooming

Transportation & Logistics

CDL Pro Driver

Commercial Drone Pilot

Skilled Trades & Manufacturing

Certified Wind Technician

Automotive Service Excellence xEV

Fundamentals of Construction

Fundamentals of Manufacturing

Production Welding

Emerging Workforce Solutions

Apprenticeships, Internships, & Job Shadows

At NIACC, we believe learning goes beyond the classroom. Our apprenticeship, internship, and job shadow opportunities give students a chance to gain hands-on experience while exploring potential careers. These programs help students apply what they’ve learned in school to real-world situations, building valuable skills that prepare them for the future. By working with local businesses, our students contribute to real projects and get a feel for what it’s like to work in their chosen field. They also have the chance to meet professionals, make connections, and get advice that can open doors to future job opportunities.

Whether you’re thinking about your next steps after high school or exploring different career paths, our programs can help you gain the experience, skills, and confidence you need for success. Discover how NIACC can help you get started on your career journey!

Curious about Emerging Workforce Solutions? Check out our video - just scan!

Career Clarity Through Job Shadowing

For recent NIACC graduate and Mason City native Brayden Miller, a one-day job shadow at First Citizens Bank opened the door to a world of career possibilities - and a deeper understanding of the path ahead. After completing NIACC’s Business Transfer program and earning his Associate in Arts degree, Brayden will head to the University of Iowa this fall to major in finance. His job shadow was coordinated through NIACC’s Emerging Workforce Solutions team, led by Melinda McGregor, who helped connect him with professionals aligned with his career interests. “Melinda made the process so efficient,” he shared. “She helped me think through potential employers and ultimately set up my job shadow with First Citizens.”

Spending the morning exploring departments across the bank, Brayden was struck by the depth and breadth of opportunities within the organization. “What surprised me the most was how many departments the bank has and the variety of roles - from client-facing to more behind-the-scenes work. I got to observe some of the software and services they use, which gave me valuable insight,” he said. A highlight of the experience came during a conversation with a team member in the wealth management department. “He was incredibly

passionate about what he does. Talking with him really energized me and made me think more seriously about that area.”

Dan McGuire, Chief Human Resources Officer at First Citizens Bank, emphasized the value of this kind of experience:

“Job shadowing is helpful for First Citizens Bank, especially at our Mason City office, because we have departments beyond Tellers and Loan Officers. Careers at FCB could be in IT, Accounting, Marketing, or Operations, which many people don’t realize. The Bank offers careers that students may think are only available in larger cities, and by learning this, perhaps they consider coming back to North Iowa after college. We appreciate our partnership with North Iowa Area Community College to help our future workforce learn and grow!”

For Brayden, the job shadow not only broadened his understanding of the banking industry but also helped sharpen key professional skills - especially listening, communication, and the ability to prepare thoughtful questions. “I would 100% recommend a job shadow to other students,” he said. “It’s such a beneficial way to explore what’s out there and see how your education connects with the real world.”

FREE Monthly Webinars

Stay informed, inspired, and ahead of the curve with Free Monthly Webinars from NIACC Business & Workforce Solutions. Each session features expert speakers, practical insights, and engaging discussions on a variety of topics. Whether you’re looking to sharpen your skills, explore new ideas, or manage change, our webinars are designed to bring valuable learning right to your screen and offer actionable takeaways to elevate your impact—completely free of charge. Join us each month—learn, connect, and grow.

Love a webinar?

We can bring the same trainer and tailor the program to your organization’s unique needs—right at your location or virtually. Customized content, flexible scheduling, and measurable results. Imagine the possibilities for your entire team!

Bridge Program

Build skills. Gain confidence. Get college-ready.

Are you hoping to boost your placement scores so you can begin Math and English collegelevel courses in Fall 2025? The Bridge Program is designed just for you!

If you’re currently an HSE student, have a high school GPA of 2.5 or lower, or have placed into ENG-014, ENG-016, or developmental math courses (MAT-063, MAT-089, or MAT-092), Bridge is your opportunity to strengthen your foundation before the fall semester begins.

NO COST to incoming NIACC students. Including materials!

Through engaging lessons and supportive instruction, you’ll sharpen your skills in:

• Math and English

• Critical thinking and academic strategies

• Note-taking and study habits

• Managing test anxiety and improving confidence

Connect with your Academic Advisor or Pathway Navigator today to find out if you qualify and get registered. Take the step toward success - Bridge is here to help you thrive.

For more information, visit niacc.edu/learning-support/bridge-program

Compliance and Safety Training

MSHA Refresher

This Mine Safety and Health Administration annual refresher course recertifies employees in MSHA Part 46 industries, including surface mines and mine site contractors. Designed for experienced miners, it provides essential updates rather than comprehensive training.

OSHA 10 Hour

Boost workplace safety with an introduction to key OSHA 1910 topics like fire protection, machine guarding, and lockout/tagout. Learn inspection tips, know your rights, and confidently support OSHA compliance.

OSHA 30 Hour

Master OSHA 1910 compliance with engaging training on fire protection, machine guarding, and lockout/tagout. Learn inspection steps, understand your rights, and gain the confidence to avoid citations and protect your team.

Drug & Alcohol Supervisors Initial Training

Learn about individuals struggling with substance misuse and drugfree workplace regulations in this two-hour Supervisor training. Ideal for first-time attendees and as an annual refresher course.

Drug & Alcohol Supervisors Refresher Training

This one-hour supervisor training covers substance abuser characteristics and drug-free workplace regulations, designed for those renewing their Drug and Alcohol Supervisor credential.

Heartsaver First Aid Adult CPR – AED

Gain the skills and confidence to save a life with hands-on training in First Aid, CPR, and AED use. Learn to respond to adult emergencies and earn AHA certification - perfect for work or personal preparedness.

The classes listed on this page are offered year-round, but may not always be open for registration. If you’re searching for a class or training and don’t see it listed, give us a call at 641-422-4358. We’ll be happy to let you know when it’s available or help you explore other options.

Learning Opportunities for Everyone - Open Enrollment Classes

Professional Development

SHRM Certification Test Prep

Earn your SHRM-CP or SHRMSCP credential and expand your HR expertise. Build practical skills, master key competencies, and gain the confidence to excel on exam day and make an immediate impact in your career.

SHRM Essentials

Understand the key issues impacting HR with the SHRM Essentials of Human Resources course. Gain critical knowledge, skills, and competencies to address today’s HR challenges and support overall business success, no matter your role.

Project Management

Boost productivity and improve project outcomes by gaining essential skills to streamline workflows, enhance team performance, and communicate effectively - empowering professionals to lead successful projects and drive business success.

Outward Mindset

The Outward Mindset transforms performance by shifting focus from self to others, fostering collaboration and innovation. By valuing others’ needs and goals, individuals drive collective success and create stronger, more effective organizations.

Learning Opportunities for Everyone - Open Enrollment Classes Technology

Microsoft Excel Level 1

Are you interested in gaining foundational knowledge and skills in Excel? An expert instructor will lead you through lessons on getting started with Excel, performing calculations, modifying a worksheet, and printing and managing workbooks. Book fee is included in the tuition.

Microsoft Excel Level 2

Do you want to take your Excel knowledge to the next level? This course is designed for anyone who already has a foundational knowledge and wants to advance to an intermediate level. An expert instructor will lead you through working with functions and lists, analyzing and visualizing data, and using PivotTables and PivotCharts. Book fee is included in tuition.

Microsoft Excel Level 3

Are you an experienced Excel user? Do you need to further your skills in some of the more advanced features of Excel? Come discover how to use macros to automate repeated tasks and Power PivotTables to combine large volumes of data from various sources to gain new insights into your data.

Microsoft Excel Level 4

Learn to automate tasks, build macros, and create custom functions in Excel with this handson VBA course - focusing on practical, real-world programming skills to boost efficiency and streamline workflows.

I

found this course extremely useful for my current job. Kevin is an excellent instructor - very patient with our class.

“ “

- Brittany B.

Innovation Workspace

Unleash your creativity at NIACC’s fabrication laboratory, a makerspace designed to empower your innovation.

Membership Details

• $29 / Year to Get Started

• Maker Access Pass: Self-Paced

• Expert Project Advice

Offerings

• Prototyping

• Custom Fabrication

• Product Customization

• Equipment Training

Community Maker Club

Available Equipment

• CO2 Laser Cutters

• 3D Printing

• Desktop CNC Mill

• Desktop Waterjet

• 3D Scanner

• Vinyl Printing

• And More!

Join NIACC’s free Community Maker Club at the Innovation Workspace. Connect with fellow dreamers and builders, and explore tools from 3D printers to lasers. Whether you’re a student, entrepreneur, or hobbyist, discover a place to learn, create, and collaborate. Stop by Tuesdays at 6 PM - no signup or membership required! Just bring your ideas, your curiosity, and maybe a friend!

Curious about the Innovation Workspace? Check out our videojust scan!

Learning Opportunities for Everyone

Conferences

Health

North Central Iowa District State Dental Association Dental Conference

Sept 15, 2025 & March 16, 2026

The North Central Iowa District State Dental Association Dental Conference is held twice a year at NIACC. Continuing education credit is awarded to dentists, dental hygienists, and dental assistants.

North Iowa Trauma Conference

April 10, 2026

This conference offers the latest in trauma care and critical patient management - tailored for physicians, advanced practice providers, nurses, EMS, and other critical care professionals.

Behavioral Health Summit

TBA

The Behavioral Health Summit raises awareness of behavioral health issues and tackles treatment stigma, targeting healthcare providers like nurses, EMS, social workers, and mental health professionals.

Water

Region 2 Fall Water Conference

Oct 2, 2025

Our Fall Water Conference is essential for those individuals working with water treatment and/or water distribution systems, covering key topics and offering .5 CEUs for water treatment or water distribution certification.

Region 2 Spring Wastewater Conference

Apr 9, 2026

Our Spring Wastewater Training Conference is essential for wastewater professionals. It provides .5 CEUs towards wastewater certification.

Adult Education and Literacy

English as a Second Language (ESL) Program

• For adults 18 and older in North Iowa whose first language is not English

• Improve reading, writing, speaking, and listening skills

• Learn about U.S. culture and citizenship

High School Equivalency (HSE) Program

• For those who are 17 or older and left high school before graduating

• Prepares students to take the HiSET exam, Iowa’s approved high school equivalency assessment, and earn a diploma

For more information, visit niacc.edu/bws/adult-literacy

Education to Employment

NIACC’s Education to Employment provides services to help students navigate educational programs and find high-demand careers. Students can enroll in a multi-week NIACC Workforce Academy program, one-year diploma program, or two-year degree program.

Services to Help You Succeed:

Academic Support

• Study techniques and time management tips

• Help buying books

• Low or no-cost tuition

Career Support

• Help buying required uniforms and equipment

• Testing and background check fees

• Resume development and interview prep

• Job search strategies

Personal Support

• Groceries

• Transportation assistance

• Mental health resources

For more information, visit niacc.edu/bws/education-to-employment

Your Future is a Phone Call Away

Rebecca Jones left high school in the spring of her sophomore year. This decision would become one of the biggest regrets of her life, but she felt like she had no other choice. At 16 years old, she was pregnant with her first child, Joshua. This May, Joshua finished high school, and he was not the only graduate in the family. After 18 years, Rebecca finally obtained her High School Equivalency Diploma (HSED).

Over the years, Rebecca had tried several times to complete her HSED, but her priorities shifted as her family of three grew to a family of nine. In the fall of 2024, the timing was finally right. Also inspired by the desire to give back to her community, she felt ready to obtain her diploma and start a new career in healthcare. After some research, Rebecca found the Education to Employment team at NIACC. Pathway Navigator Angela Backhaus connected her to the resources that helped her dreams become a reality. “She was basically the one to get my foot in the door,” Rebecca says. “So, I guess it’s just a phone call away.”

Rebecca took NIACC’s Certified Nurse Aide (CNA) course while working full-time and raising her children

with her husband. In December, she was a student speaker at her graduation ceremony. Then, Rebecca joined the High School Equivalency (HSE) program in January 2025. When she felt overwhelmed, support from her Pathway Navigator, her HSE instructor Judy Larson, and her family helped her get through it. “I didn’t believe in myself until I started seeing others believe in me, and I think that started when I was taking my CNA classes with Julie [Kolker],” Rebecca says.

While her son prepares to attend NIACC this fall, Rebecca is planning to start NIACC’s Licensed Practical Nursing program as her next step to becoming a Registered Nurse.

Reflecting on her journey, Rebecca says, “I feel like I’m on top of the world. I’m accomplished now. I feel like I can finally breathe again. The storm’s over, and now I get to feel what the calm feels like.” To anyone considering going back to school, Rebecca says, “Encourage yourself. Never stray from the path that you are looking forward to taking. Be determined and stay determined, and don’t give up, because you will succeed.”

NIACC Career Centers

The NIACC Career Centers support academic and career growth for people of all ages across our surrounding communities.

For High School Students

Explore hands-on career paths before you graduate! Our Concurrent Enrollment Academies - located at the John V. Hanson Career Center in Forest City and the NIACC Career Center in Charles City - offer high school students the chance to:

• Learn real-world skills in Advanced Manufacturing, Construction Trades, Information Technology, and Health Careers

• Earn free college credit through NIACC

• Use NIACC provided textbooks, tools, and equipment

• Get a head start on your future - at no cost!

Talk to your school counselor to enroll or visit the URL at the bottom of the page.

For Adults and Lifelong Learners

At our career centers in Charles City, Forest City, Garner, Hampton, Lake Mills, and Osage, you’ll find flexible, supportive programs to help you grow personally and professionally.

• Adult Literacy classes, including High School Equivalency (HSED) and English as a Second Language (ESL)

• Community education classes for everything from crafting to wellness

For Curious Young Minds

The NIACC Career Center in Charles City also hosts youth summer camps - designed to spark creativity, career curiosity, and confidence in younger students. For more information, visit niacccamps.com.

How to Register for Open Enrollment Classes

Go to niacc.augusoft.net and click on “LOGIN/CREATE ACCOUNT”

If you have an account:

1.Choose user type “Student”

2.Type your email, enter your password, and click sign in

3.Use the search for class field in the top right and type the class ID #

4.Click on the class you want to register for and “Add To Cart”

If you do NOT have an account:

1.Click “Create New Profile”

2.On “Purchase membership?,” choose “None Specified”

3.Click “Submit”

4.Complete and submit the “Your Personal Profile” form

Then follow steps 3 & 4 from above.

Scan to watch STEP-BY-STEP video!

Please note: Not all classes listed in this catalog are currently open for registration. If you search for a class or training and don’t see it listed, feel free to call our office at 641-422-4358. We’ll provide details on when the training will be available or assist you with other registration options.

It is the policy of North Iowa Area Community College not to discriminate in its programs, activities, or employment on the basis of race, color, national origin, sex, disability, age, sexual orientation, creed, religion, and actual or potential family, parental or marital status. If you have questions or complaints related to compliance with this policy, please contact Lora Juhl EEO/AA Officer, 500 College Drive, Mason City, IA 50401, 641-422-4211, lora.juhl@niacc.edu.