Cultivating Growth: Apprenticeship Partners Build Stronger Workforce Nationwide

Cultivating Growth: Apprenticeship Partners Build Stronger Workforce Nationwide

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-you-learn 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-you-learn 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.

Key Highlights:

• 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.

• Nationwide reach: The flexible, online format allows students across the U.S. to participate, supporting both recent high school graduates and adult learners.

• Guaranteed career advancement: Graduates are promoted into full-time positions with RCIS upon successful completion of the program.

Learn more about Apprenticeship opportunities through NICC. nicc.edu/earnlearn