National Education Center for Agricultural Safety (NECAS)
8342 NICC Drive Peosta, IA 52068
888.844.6322
Small Business Development Center (SBDC)
900 Jackson St, Suite 110 Dubuque, IA 52001
563.588.3350
Town Clock Business Center
680 Main St., Ste. 100 Dubuque, IA 52001
844.642.2338, ext. 3100
Waukon Center
1220 Third Ave. N.W., Ste. 102 Waukon, IA 52172
844.642.2338, ext. 6100
Wilder Business Center
1625 Hwy. 150 S. Calmar, IA 52132
844.642.2338, 1399
Upcoming Career Development Classes
HR Alliance
Starting Jan. 2026, Calmar
Business Consortium
Starting Jan. 2026, Dubuque/Virtual
Microsoft ® Excel 2021: Level 1
#103215 Oct. 21, 2025, Online via Zoom
Microsoft ® Excel 2021: Level 2
#103216 Nov. 18, 2025, Online via Zoom
Microsoft ® Excel 2021: Level 3
#103217 Dec. 2, 2025, Online via Zoom
EXPLORE OUR FULL CATALOG OF CLASSES.
Be the Leader Workplace and Community
Northeast Iowa Community College (NICC) Business and Community Solutions, in partnership with the City of Oelwein and Oelwein Chamber and Area Development, has created the Oelwein LEAD Certificate — a continuing education program designed to grow and empower local leaders.
If you’re ready to strengthen your workplace and interpersonal leadership skills, this program is the perfect fit. Through a series of convenient, half-day training sessions, you’ll gain practical tools you can apply immediately in your career and community.
“I am excited to see Oelwein work toward building local leaders,” said Dylan Mulfinger, city administrator of Oelwein.
“Oelwein has a lot going on right now, and the more we can invest in our people, the more we can keep pushing forward.”
The Oelwein LEAD Certificate is just the beginning. NICC plans to expand high-impact leadership training across northeast Iowa, helping rural communities strengthen their workforce and civic leadership from within.
Leader Your and Needs
Highlights:
THE
CATALYST PODCAST:
Where Ideas and Innovation Take Shape
Fuel your personal and professional growth with The Catalyst podcast from Northeast Iowa Community College (NICC). Each episode features bold conversations on leadership, innovation and education, delivered by the voices shaping our region’s future.
chevron-circle-right Discover new perspectives from local leaders and changemakers
chevron-circle-right Gain practical insights to apply at work and in life
chevron-circle-right Explore what’s next in education, business and community growth
Whether you're leading a team, building your career or curious about today’s professional landscape, this podcast is for you.
Northeast Iowa Community College (NICC) and Rural Community Insurance Services (RCIS)—the crop insurance division of Zurich North America—have partnered to build a career pipeline for the crop insurance industry through an innovative apprenticeship model. This two-year, earn-while-youlearn program allows RCIS apprentices to split their time between online coursework in the Agriculture Business credit program at NICC and hands-on training at RCIS. Apprentices earn full-time wages and benefits
while completing their associate’s degree, with tuition fully covered by RCIS. Upon graduation, participants advance into full-time roles within the company.
“As a student just graduating from high school, getting an education paid for while still gaining work experience and a salary was a massive head start for me,” said program graduate Devin Burlage of Dyersville, Iowa. “Adult learners also benefit; they may have a family to take care of and need an opportunity to receive
a college education without sacrificing their income entirely.”
Since the program’s launch in May 2024, 28 students have graduated and 13 additional students are on track to graduate in 2026. The online format enables participation from across the country, with students enrolled from California, Illinois, Iowa, Minnesota, North Carolina, North Dakota, Ohio, Washington and Wisconsin, among other states. In addition to their associate’s degree, graduates also receive a U.S. Department of Labor Certificate of Apprenticeship.
RCIS currently operates in all 50 states with approximately 3,700 agents and 1,500 employees nationwide. NICC was selected as the agriculture education provider for RCIS and the Zurich Office of Apprenticeship following a nationwide search, reflecting the college’s strength in aligning workforce education with industry needs.
“Collaborative, earn-while-youlearn programs offer a synergistic relationship wherein both learners and industries thrive,” said Erin Powers Daley, Ph.D., executive director of community and student development at NICC. “These innovative programs effectively address the evolving needs of the workforce by combining tailored education with practical experience.
Northeast Iowa Community College’s commitment to customizing curriculum ensures that students are equipped with the precise skills demanded by employers, fostering a seamless transition into the professional world.”
Learn more about Apprenticeship opportunities through NICC.
Key Highlights:
CIRCLE-CHECK Full-time pay and tuition-covered education: Apprentices receive full compensation and benefits while earning an associate's degree, with no out-of-pocket tuition costs.
CIRCLE-CHECK Nationwide reach: The flexible, online format allows students across the U.S. to participate, supporting both recent high school graduates and adult learners.
CIRCLE-CHECK Guaranteed career advancement: Graduates are promoted into fulltime positions with RCIS upon successful completion of the program.
Coaching for Growth: Unlocking Leadership Potential
Contributing Writer: Amy Lasack, Vice President of Business and Community Solutions
When people hear the word coaching, their minds often jump to one of two things: sports or a workplace intervention for someone who’s struggling. But professional coaching is entirely different. It’s a strategic development tool for highperforming individuals and teams.
Professional coaching creates space to step back from the day-to-day and reflect: How are you showing up? Where are you most effective? What patterns might be holding you back? Unlike a supervisor or colleague, a coach offers a neutral, unbiased perspective. A coach is someone who is trained to ask thoughtful questions, challenge assumptions and help you identify your own path forward.
As NICC coach Paulette Milewski sees it, “Coaching is about self-insight, self-awareness, discovery and growth, and it comes through asking some pretty tough questions. Coaching is a safe place to think, learn and achieve.”
Many who have experienced coaching for the first time are surprised by how powerful it is and its ability to help you level up how you approach your work, your attitude and your team.
Michael Leytem, a professional coach for Northeast Iowa Community College (NICC), is quick to push back on the idea that coaching is just a “feel-good” exercise. He explains: “I think sometimes with coaching, people think it’s this fluffy thing, but really, the tools and frameworks that we use are grounded in research and science, and it’s really about behavioral change. It’s so important for leaders to hone those skills that make us most human.”
The College’s Business and Community Solutions division has seen this impact firsthand. That’s why we offer a full array of coaching services tailored to different goals, industries and learning styles. Whether someone is stepping into leadership, navigating team
dynamics, refining their communication or seeking more clarity and confidence in their role, we have a coach to match.
Coaching isn’t one-size-fitsall. That’s why we work with individuals and organizations to ensure the right fit. The coaches at NICC come from a range of professional backgrounds and bring their own unique approaches, but all are focused on one thing: helping people grow.
If you’re ready to invest in your team—or yourself—NICC is here to support the journey. Not because something is broken, but because growth is always possible.
STIGMA-FREE WORKPLACE CERTIFICATE:
Build a Culture That Thrives
Empower your team to address brain health with confidence, compassion and openness. The Stigma-Free Workplace Certificate, in partnership with NAMI Dubuque, equips leaders, HR professionals and managers with strategies to create a supportive, thriving work environment.
CIRCLE-CHECK Recognize the impact of brain health on workplace culture
CIRCLE-CHECK Develop inclusive policies and practices
CIRCLE-CHECK Provide resources that truly make a difference
“This certification was life-changing. It will make our leadership and our company stronger when employees know they can come to us."
Liz Kass HR Manager
at ProPulse
INVEST IN YOUR PEOPLE. SHAPE THE FUTURE OF YOUR WORKPLACE. caret-right nicc.edu/brainhealth
Empowering the Workforce through Innovative Partnerships
The world of manufacturing is changing, and Industry 4.0 is a driving force. Referred to as the Fourth Industrial Revolution, Industry 4.0 pertains to the integration of advanced smart technologies into manufacturing and industrial processes.
A.Y. McDonald Mfg. Co., a well-established Dubuque manufacturer of water works valves, plumbing and natural gas equipment, is at the forefront of responding to these changes, partnering with Northeast Iowa Community College (NICC) to ensure its workforce is ready to take on the future.
Based in Dubuque, since 1856, the company’s vision is “to be the leading producer of water and natural gas distribution products to benefit the current and next generation of co-workers, customers and stockholders by continually growing and strengthening our business.” At A.Y. McDonald Mfg. Co., the term co-worker is used intentionally — it reflects the company’s deeply held belief that every individual is a valued contributor to the team, not just an employee.
While rooted in history, the company is embracing the future — living the words of its vision by partnering with NICC to move the business forward. A.Y. McDonald Mfg. Co. approached staff in the NICC Business and Community Solutions division to discuss the training needs for both electrical and mechanical skilled trades, wanting to advance both the company and its employees with the coming trends.
“Partnering with NICC is instrumental,” expressed Brad Johnson, senior HR manager. “The ever-changing landscape of manufacturing is driving the need for new processes and automation. It’s essential we’re able to adapt to these evolving needs, and our ability to do so comes down to people – our co-workers. It's important we invest in our co-workers' continued development. A people-first approach is simply the right thing to do.”
The Contract Training team at NICC responded with a variety of options for customized training, skills assessments and sponsorship opportunities. Offering a network of industry experts and solutions, the team met with A.Y. McDonald Mfg. Co. to outline a training plan to meet the company’s specific needs.
The team put together short-term training programs tailored to the company’s requests including maintenance welding, hydraulics, pneumatics, electrical schematics/safety, programmable logic controllers (PLC), industrial pumps and more. The company also took part in the College’s Reliability Solutions consortium including precision assembly and installation as well as bearings and lubrication classes. Rick Dryer, A.Y. McDonald Mfg. Co.’s senior maintenance supervisor attended one of the consortium classes himself and has referred co-workers to the classes as well. “I highly recommend these classes. They’re very professional," Dryer stated.
A.Y. McDonald Mfg. Co. created an advancement path where qualified co-workers can earn a wage increase by demonstrating advancement, knowledge, and practical application of their skills and abilities. To support co-worker advancement, NICC created a series of skills-based assessments for the company’s electricians and millwrights, and the College proctors the tests as a third-party evaluator.
The company is seeing results – its employees return with more confidence and skills, and they are sharing their knowledge. “Our co-workers are moving to the next level, helping us get the jobs done sooner and get our machines running quicker. I’ve seen a lot of improvement,” Dryer shared.
Johnson expressed, “NICC is very flexible and accommodating. We have not asked a question yet that they have said ‘no’ to. They always look at the specific needs of the organization and individuals. It has paid dividends across our maintenance team.”
NICC is also an intermediary sponsor of several Department of Labor-approved Registered Apprenticeships in which local businesses partner to enroll employees under the College's apprenticeship program. Apprenticeships are flexible and can be customized to meet the needs of businesses across all industries.
A.Y. McDonald Mfg. Co. currently sponsors four employees in NICC apprenticeships. Don Martone III, a maintenance supervisor is nearing completion of the Maintenance Mechanic Apprenticeship. Kirk Brodrecht started as a machinist and
progressed to an electrician. He is in the Electrical Maintenance Apprenticeship.
Both apprenticeships include training instruction in electrical, fluid power and mechanical drives. Each apprenticeship requires hours of lab instruction as well as on-the-job learning (OJL) with a mentor at the company. Some prior work experience may be pre-approved and applied toward hours of OJL.
Both Martone and Brodrecht appreciate the flexibility of the programs and knowledgeable instructors. “My class hours are very flexible, and that is really nice for a person working 40+ hours a week,” Brodrecht commented.
Martone expressed, “The instructors are knowledgeable — they’ve worked in the field and are there to answer questions. I like the open classroom and work-at-your-own-pace environment with the workstation equipment available for hands-on learning. It’s pretty awesome.”
Martone also participated in the College’s contract training opportunities. He noted, “The contract training classes at NICC have been beneficial in helping to grasp and obtain certain areas of expertise needed. I enjoyed the welding certification in particular.”
Both the contract training offerings and the apprenticeship program have helped the company meet its workforce development goals. “Internally, it has helped tremendously with the confidence of our current co-workers,” expressed Dave Schoenberger, maintenance & facilities manager. “They get a different perspective from outside the company. The feedback I have received from my crew is that the instructors are incredible. You have a team of people there that know what they’re doing, and they're just incredible at teaching them — that’s a big deal!”
The College is continuously innovating to stay relevant for the future. NICC recently created a new state-of-the-art Advanced Technology Center on the Peosta Campus with even more flexibility and opportunities for self-paced, hands-on instructional learning. The College has doubled its instructional capabilities with an additional instructor, and the
Photo: Kirk Brodrecht
Photo: Don Martone
Photo: Dave Schoenberger
Photo: Rick Dryer
new training lab in the center is now five times larger and includes modern, automated technologies and robots.
To align with changing workforce demands, NICC also gathers industry insight through employer focus groups including a Manufacturing Alliance. A.Y. McDonald Mfg. Co. has been in discussions with other local businesses. “The whole community is in the same boat,” Dryer stated; “It’s not just us — it’s all of manufacturing! Automation is going to be the future.”
As manufacturing technologies and equipment evolve, leaders at A.Y. McDonald Mfg. Co. feel it is important to continue partnering with the College. “It is essential we continue. Without these programs, we would stall and be left behind.” stated Schoenberger. “We’re very excited to continue the relationship with NICC and move everyone forward.”
The company also encourages other manufacturers to partner with the College. Schoenberger stated, “Get on board — it’s a win-win. From my experience, I can tell you that the leadership at NICC will do what they have to do to make it successful. When we reach out to NICC, we never hear ‘we can’t do that’. It's always ‘let’s talk and we will figure it out!’ That’s the attitude we need. Working together with a local entity like NICC with that mentality, it’s critical to find.”
NICC welcomes partnerships with manufacturers who want to invest in their people and prepare for the future in any industry.
Career Pathway Certificate: CNC Operator #104258 Feb. 9, 2026, Peosta
Career Pathway Certificate (CPC):
Building Construction & Construction Equipment Operator #104286 March 23, 2026, Dubuque/Peosta
Career Pathway Certificate (CPC):
Building Construction #104287 March 23, 2026, Dubuque
Career Pathway Certificate (CPC):
Construction Equipment Operator #104288 March 23, 2026, Peosta #104289 April 13, 2026, Calmar
EXPLORE OUR FULL CATALOG OF CLASSES.
Don’t be left behind. Find out how you, too, can partner with Northeast Iowa Community College to take on the future.
Student Stories: Growing Personal Passions into Careers
For students at Northeast Iowa Community College (NICC), the Culinary Foundations Career Pathway Certificate (CPC) programs are more than just a class—it's a launchpad for professional growth, turning personal passions into promising careers.
Alaina Miller, a Culinary Foundations Level I student, enrolled in the program to follow her love of food and cooking. “My goal was to expand my skill set and comprehension in the culinary industry while embracing my passion. This class provided me with essential skills and knowledge that have enhanced my abilities in the kitchen,” Alaina said. “The curriculum covered a range of culinary concepts and techniques, from basic knife skills to advanced cooking methods. The hands-on experience was invaluable, allowing me to apply what I learned in a practical setting. Through boosted exposure, relationships and experience I gained from the class, I was able to receive a huge opportunity with a promising job offer.”
Alaina shared her support of the program adding, “Thanks to this class, I feel more confident and prepared to pursue my culinary goals. I highly recommend this program to anyone looking to improve their culinary skills. I believe it is truly valuable to our community.”
The College’s Culinary programs experienced growth in recent years as well as increased community partnerships. Since 2016, 66 students have graduated from the programs, with four students continuing into the newly created Level III program this fall. Class sizes are small to allow for kitchen space and personalized attention with hands-on instruction. In 2021, the College partnered with Steeple Square to offer a permanent kitchen for the classes and to grow the program. Levels II and III were created in 2025 to expand on kitchen skills, industry knowledge and catering services.
Jerry Russell, a cook at the Barrell House in Dubuque, found his passion for cooking at a young age, taught by his grandfather in Jackson, Miss.. “My granddaddy taught me how to cook breakfast at a young age,” Jerry explains. “The more curious I got, the more I wanted to do it.
I love the passion and I love to see people’s reactions when I prepare any dish. It brings me joy to cook.” His love of cooking made the Culinary Foundations the perfect choice. After completing Culinary Foundations Level I, Jerry landed his current job. He didn’t stop there. Focusing on his dream to run his own restaurant, Jerry has completed Level II training and is now enrolled in Level III, all while continuing to work in the industry.
Life circumstances tried to derail Jerry’s goals, but he overcame the obstacles to turn his life around for his family. Today, Jerry is even closer to achieving his dream of owning his own business.
Photo: Jerry Russell
Upcoming Career Pathway Certificate Programs
Certified Nurse Aide (CNA)
#102219 Oct. 27, 2025, Peosta #102220 Nov. 24, 2025, Town Clock Business Center
CDL Semi-Truck Driving
#101428 Oct. 6, 2025, Peosta
#104015 Oct. 20, 2025, Waukon
#101429 Nov. 3, 2025, Peosta
Culinary Foundations Level 1
#104172 Dec. 3, 2025, Steeple Square
Emergency Medical Technician #102462 Dec. 22, 2025, Waukon
Phlebotomy Technician
#104283 March 17, 2026, Town Clock Business Center #104282 April 9, 2026, Calmar
In the Culinary Foundations programs, students get realworld experience catering a variety of events. This fall, Level III students will take their skills to the next level by planning and executing diverse catering events. Their services will include creating a spread of heavy appetizers, managing buffet-style lunches, serving elegant plated meals and even providing an intimate, in-home dinner party experience for guests.
NICC offers a variety of short-term CPC programs designed to get students into the workforce faster in industries such as business, hospitality, construction, health, manufacturing and transportation. The College partners with employer sponsors to provide valuable support and resources to students, ensuring they have access to real-world opportunities. In addition to these partnerships, the College offers financial assistance programs for qualifying students, empowering them to pursue their passions without the burden of financial constraints.
Find a Career Pathway Certificate program that matches your interests. Contact Business and Community Solutions to discover your path into the workforce and to make your future dreams come true.
Upcoming Personal Enrichment Classes
Kids in the Kitchen: Ghoulish Treats #104082 Oct. 28, 2025, Waukon Center
Fall Pumpkin Sign Painting Class (Adult) #104080 Nov. 4, 2025, Waukon Center
Fall Highland Cow Sign Painting Class (Youth) #104078 Nov. 4, 2025, Waukon Center
Craft Cocktails: The Art of the Perfect Drink #104233 Nov. 16, 2025, Dubuque
Lighted 3-D Ceramic Christmas Scene (Adult) #104081 Dec. 2, 2025, Waukon Center
Ceramic Christmas Tree Painting Party (Youth) #104079 Dec. 2, 2025, Waukon Center
EXPLORE ALL OF OUR PERSONAL ENRICHMENT COURSES AND SIGN UP TODAY.
HSED: Building Confidence, Careers and a Brighter Future
Adult Education and Literacy program helps students rewrite their stories and find success beyond high school
Contributing Writer: Russell Bahl
Success Coordinator, Adult Education & Literacy
Did you or a friend, relative, coworker, neighbor or acquaintance not graduate from high school? Most of us know someone in this situation, and the reasons for not earning a diploma are all legitimate.
The Adult Education and Literacy team at Northeast Iowa Community College (NICC) can help. The stigmas associated with a High School Equivalency Diploma (HSED) have been fading as graduates continue their education and pursue career pathways beyond earning the high school credential.
Completion of the HSED program not only provides students with an important credential but also builds their confidence to achieve their personal and professional goals and fosters a fresh outlook on the future.
Phoenix Baker, who completed the HSED program last November, was one of 80 students to earn an HSED over the past year at NICC. Earning her HSED wasn’t just another milestone for Phoenix; it was a turning point that reshaped how she saw herself, her future and what she could accomplish next.
“It definitely had a positive impact and effect on how I view my goals. I’m confident in my future endeavors because of the teachers and staff at NICC,”
she stated. In addition to earning her HSED in November, Phoenix also completed the Phlebotomy Technician Career Pathway Certificate program at NICC in July 2025.
“I believe that the staff and students at NICC had such a positive impact and influence on me. Dropping out of high school was horrifying, and then I found NICC. The support and encouragement from everyone there was amazing. I appreciate everything they’ve done for me.”
The decision to enroll in the HSED program is a powerful first step toward a better future. But the real transformation happens in the day-to-day effort. This program isn't just a credential; it's a driver for positive change in your life. It's a reminder that true growth comes from consistently showing up for yourself, one small improvement at a time.
Photo: Phoenix Baker (left)
CAREER DEVELOPMENT
Coaching Authorization #104114 Anytime Online
Fulfill all requirements for a coaching license from the comfort of your home! This online class gives you the flexibility to kickstart your career as an interscholastic coach.
Brain Health Summit 2025 | Rewired: Social Media’s Hidden Impact on Brain Health #104141 Nov. 12, 2025 Peosta
Discover the unseen psychological effects of social media and learn practical strategies to rewire your brain for a healthier, more balanced relationship with the digital world.
This six-month journey enhances leadership skills and expands your professional network. Participants meet monthly for 90 minutes in a dynamic mix of in-person and virtual formats to ensure personalized and meaningful connections.
New Classes, Fresh Ideas—
PERSONAL ENRICHMENT
Pottery Painting
#104226 Oct. 21, 2025 Cresco Center
Kids in Kindergarten through third grade will transform plain ceramic pieces into unique works of art using a vibrant palette of acrylic paints to create personalized, handmade treasures without any sculpting.
Ghost Hunting at the Masonic Temple
#103053 Oct. 23, 2025 Dubuque
Ghost Hunting is back by popular demand! Join a real paranormal investigation team with their specialized equipment to search for and understand the ghostly history of Dubuque's historic Masonic Temple.
Mini 2-day Craft Camp (Youth)
#104121 Nov. 24–25, 2025 Waukon Center
Get your hands crafty in this two-day camp focusing on the intricate art of origami and creating fun projects with tissue paper and pipe cleaners.
Kids in the Kitchen: Thanksgiving Cookie Decorating
#104101 Nov. 20, 2025 Cresco Center
Kids will learn the secrets to decorating bakery-worthy Thanksgiving cookies with a professional baker, all while getting to practice with a real pastry bag. This class is ideal for Kindergarten through third grade students.
Ceramic Christmas Ornament Painting
#104227 Dec. 4, 2025 Cresco Center
Artists in Kindergarten through third grade will get to paint their own ceramic Christmas ornaments with pastel paints, creating beautiful and personal holiday keepsakes that will bring a sense of accomplishment to your festive decor.
TRADES & INDUSTRY
Career Pathway Certificate (CPC): Cabinet & Trim Carpentry Basics
#104285 Feb. 10, 2026 Dubuque
HEALTH
LPN IV Therapy
#104278 Jan. 19, 2026 Online/Dubuque
Our hybrid IV Therapy for the LPN course equips you with the skills to safely perform intravenous procedures. With a flexible online format and hands-on training, it fits your schedule while providing essential knowledge and experience.
Our Dental Assistant series includes three specialized courses, available online to help you balance responsibilities at the dental office. Take one or stack all three together for a complete continuing education package.
Develop essential cabinet-making skills, including joinery, hardware, assembly and finishing in our hands-on lab. Learn tool safety, drafting, design methods, CNC router operation and industry tools.
POWERHOUSE CONFERENCES FOR BUSINESS LEADERS & PROFESSIONALS
Unlock high-impact training and networking with access to local training led by national and international experts. These powerhouse events are designed to inspire, connect and equip you for success.
BRAIN HEALTH CONFERENCE
NOV. 12, PEOSTA
Dive into groundbreaking insights on mental wellness, cognitive performance and emotional resilience from top experts in the field.
SAFETY CONFERENCE
DEC. 10, PEOSTA
Elevate your organization with forward-thinking strategies, leadership development and innovation insights from industry trailblazers.
REGISTER NOW. SPACE IS LIMITED!
844.642.2338, ext. 1399 conted@nicc.edu
BUSINESS SUMMIT
MAY 2026
Connect with regional leaders and industry experts to explore cutting-edge business strategies, workforce trends and innovation opportunities.
