NICC celebrates National Apprenticeship Week, Nov. 17-23
Tuesday, November 19, 2024
Registered apprenticeship programs at NICC meet national quality standards and are approved by the U.S. Department of Labor (DOL). Apprenticeships are flexible and can be customized to meet the needs of businesses across all industries.
NORTHEAST IOWA–Northeast Iowa Community College (NICC) proudly observes National Apprenticeship Week from Nov. 17-23, highlighting its pivotal role in workforce development. The College is dedicated to training students to become skilled professionals equipped to meet the evolving needs of future industries.
With a wide range of apprenticeship options for students, NICC is committed to equipping students with hands-on experience and in-demand skills, making them valuable assets to local employers. NICC offers many Apprenticeship options, including Agriculture Business, Computer Numerical Control (CNC) Set-Up Programmer Milling & Turning, CNC Mold Maker, CNC Tool & Die Maker, Heating & Air Conditioner (HVAC) Install / Service, Heavy Truck Driver, Maintenance Electrician, Maintenance Mechanic and Welding.
Apprenticeships offer students a pathway to high-quality careers, allowing them to “earn while they learn” and gain real-world skills under the mentorship of experienced professionals, says Seth Harms, who teaches the Welding program at West Delaware High School. His students are completing NICC courses in partnership with the College.
“Apprenticeship programs help high school students by giving them a chance to learn a high-demand skill. They are hired by local companies, which allows them to grow with the company. When they finish the Welding program, they are able to roll right into full-time employment and stay in our community. If they decide to leave after completion, they have learned valuable skills they can take with them wherever they decide to go,” Harms said.
Sonny Thornton, an NICC Welding graduate, advanced in his career further as an Electrical Apprenticeship graduate.
“Taking multiple courses at Northeast Iowa Community College gave me the tools I needed to help me land where I am today. In my life and career, NICC has been a cornerstone of my success. The Apprenticeship program through NICC was definitely the right path for me,” Thornton said.
NICC has established another successful apprenticeship partnership with Rural Community Insurance Services (RCIS), a subsidiary of Zurich Insurance Group, to help the crop insurer build upon its team of crop claims agents. Apprentices with RCIS enroll in the online, two-year NICC Ag Business program to develop their knowledge and skills, with the goal of returning to RCIS work full-time after graduation.
Livia King, an NICC apprenticeship student participating in the program, believes these partnerships are mutually beneficial for companies and students. “I believe more community colleges should establish these apprenticeship agreements with employers. It is very beneficial because you gain valuable on-the-job training while earning a good income as you go through and complete your education.”
Registered apprenticeship programs at NICC meet national quality standards and are approved by the U.S. Department of Labor (DOL). Apprenticeships are flexible and can be customized to meet the needs of businesses across all industries. The length varies depending on the employer and complexity of the program and/or occupation. To learn more visit nicc.edu/apprenticeship.