Report outlines solutions to workforce needs through Kirkwood employer partnerships
CEDAR RAPIDS, Iowa (March 30, 2026)–Kirkwood Community College has released its Skills 2027 Report, providing employers across the region with a clear view of workforce needs and the strategies required to strengthen hiring, retention, and business growth through 2027. The report reflects input from 156 organizations across Kirkwood’s seven-county service area.
The report shows that more than 62% of employers experienced difficulty filling positions over the past year, with organizations most often citing a lack of qualified candidates, a small labor pool, and wage or benefit competition as the leading barriers. Employers also reported that the most common skills missing from today’s workforce—and the skills they expect to remain the greatest gaps through 2027—are foundational work habits such as reliability, accountability, and attendance, along with job-specific technical skills.
The Skills 2027 Report also indicates that employers are preparing for rapid technological change, with the majority of organizations engaging with artificial intelligence (AI) in some way, and only 9% reporting that they are not considering AI implementation. As AI use grows, employers reported an increased need for training in AI software and technology, industry-specific tools, and AI safety and security protocols.
To help employers combat these issues, Kirkwood is ready to partner with businesses to deliver solutions identified in the report, including workforce readiness training that strengthens foundational workplace skills, customized training that builds job-specific and technical skills, and onboarding support that helps employers successfully train less experienced new hires. Kirkwood can also support employers through expanded work-based learning and apprenticeship partnerships that build long-term talent pipelines, as well as AI-focused training that helps organizations prepare employees for new tools and evolving workplace expectations.
“Kirkwood Corporate Training works directly with employer partners to create solutions that support real business goals,” said Kirkwood Director of Corporate Training Quinn Pettifer. “The Skills 2027 Report shows employers need strong work habits, the right technical skills, and the ability to adapt—and we’re ready to help businesses build the workforce they need to succeed.”
To see the full report, go to www.kirkwood.edu/skills2027.
For more information about Kirkwood Corporate Training, go to www.kirkwood.edu/corporatetraining or call 319-398-5623.