2 minute read
Sparking Career Interests at Summer Camps
In the 1990s, Tara Kramer was a curious kid attending summer camp at Northeast Iowa Community College (NICC), where a dramatic helicopter landing on campus left her in awe. This unforgettable moment during a farm safety camp ignited her passion for emergency services, ultimately leading her to pursue EMT courses at NICC and become a certified flight paramedic.
“The NICC programs ignited a spark in me; they helped me find a successful career that I love,” she recalls. Tara's journey exemplifies how the College's diverse summer camps inspire career interests in young people, providing hands-on experiences that pave the way for future success.
From June through early August, NICC campuses and centers offer creative, hands-on learning opportunities for youth. Experienced instructors and mentors guide campers in discovering hidden talents and interests while fostering early career exploration. “These youth camps are a vital introduction to potential career pathways for students,” stated youth welding instructor, Seth Harms.
The Be Your Own Boss camps in Cresco and Waukon encourage creativity, problem-solving and leadership skills. Campers learn basic business concepts, develop business plans, create marketing materials and pitch their ideas to local business professionals.
The College also offers camps dedicated to exploring in-demand skills such as coding, welding and more. Sessions focused on the arts promote self-expression and critical thinking, while science-based programs dive deeper into experimentation and collaborative problemsolving—soft skills that are valuable in any career field. Connor Meyer, a recent camper, stated they enjoyed “learning to weld, so I will know how to weld in the future.”
NICC summer camps provide valuable opportunities for youth to explore potential careers. Learn more about camp options in Calmar, Cresco, Manchester, Oelwein, Peosta and Waukon. Visit nicc.edu/camps to learn more.
Upcoming Personal Enrichment Courses
Classic Games for Kids
#101087 May 6, Oelwein
Craft Cocktails: The Art of the Perfect Drink
#101050 May 18, Dubuque
High School Drivers Ed
New sessions are offered monthly.
Intro to Kayaking & Canoeing
#101436 June 5, Calmar
Mini NICC Coding Camp - K-5 Grade
#101228 April 22, Waukon
Mini NICC Game Camp - K-5 Grade
#101265 May 13, Waukon
Motorcycle - Basic Rider Course
Multiple sessions are available through May 2025.
STEAM Makerspace Open Labs - Session 4
#101225 April 30, Waukon
Unlock Your Golf Potential: A 3-Part Series
#101139 May 15, Dubuque
