Cedar Rapids, Iowa (August 5, 2015)—With input from area workforce leaders, Kirkwood Community College has developed training to address applicant shortages in the areas of financial and customer service, healthcare, information technology, manufacturing, and transportation and logistics.
According to the 2014 Workforce and Economic Development Regional Status Report, regional industry projections indicate large employment gains through 2022 in healthcare and social assistance; educational services; transportation and warehousing; retail trade; and the construction industry.
Having worked with more than 450 area businesses last year, Kirkwood was able to identify the industry sectors with worker shortages and under-qualified applicants. Five sector boards were established in an effort to understand the education and training needs of Iowa’s Creative Corridor. The college welcomes any businesses in these fields that are interested in participating. Kirkwood’s practice is a standard component of the Federal Workforce Innovation and Opportunity Act, a national job-training program.
“We keep our finger on the pulse of the business climate and try to be innovative in our approach to solving workforce issues,” said Kirkwood Vice President of Continuing Education and Training Services Kim Becicka. “Kirkwood has pioneered the implementation of sector board and career pathways as a tool for workforce solutions.”
As a result of this work, Kirkwood is set to offer numerous new programs and extensively revised programs for the 2015 – 2016 school year. Tuition assistance and job training programs are available to support both job seekers and employers with their investment in these educational and training programs.
Kirkwood classes include customer service, leadership, sales professionalism, soft skill enhancement and talent management; and workforce skill building, including EKG technician certification, website development, or truck driving to name a few.
Job seekers and employers interested in education and training offered through Kirkwood can visit www.kirkwood.edu/ce for more information.