An adult student at Kirkwood
When Davia set out to rebuild her future, she wasn’t just looking for a class — she was looking for stability, support, and a path forward.
Through Kirkwood Community College’s Creating Futures program, she found all three.
With help from Kirkwood, Davia completed her high school equivalency diploma and then moved directly into nurse aide training. The program removed barriers by providing transportation assistance, clothing and even scrubs — allowing her to focus on learning instead of what she lacked.
“Creating Futures significantly impacted my life in various aspects, including financial stability, emotional support, and personal growth,” Davia shared.
Her story is part of Kirkwood’s larger mission: helping learners of all ages gain the skills local employers need — by strengthening employee skillsets, employers, and the overall economic future of Eastern Iowa.
Meeting Adult Learners Where They Are
Adults come to Kirkwood for many reasons: career changes, job advancement, or the need to finish what they started years earlier. Last year, Kirkwood Continuing Education and Training Services served 29,484 unique students with an average age of 36 — a clear indication that many are returning to education with jobs, families, and full lives already in motion.
Adult learners can choose short-term workforce credentials, customized employer training, or, just like traditional students, pursue one of Kirkwood’s more than 150 credit majors, degrees, diplomas and certificates that open doors to careers in healthcare, manufacturing, business, IT and more.
For those who need even greater flexibility, Kirkwood also offers FlexFORWARD, a self-paced learning option designed with working adults in mind. FlexFORWARD allows students to complete coursework on a schedule that fits their lives, making it possible to keep moving toward a credential while balancing full-time employment, family responsibilities, or other commitments.
Together, these options ensure adult learners can find a pathway that works for them — whether they want to advance quickly into a new career or take steady steps toward a long-term educational goal.
High School Completion: A Second Chance That Lasts
For many adults, educational barriers begin long before college. Kirkwood’s High School Completion Program helps residents who never finished high school earn the credentials that power success in the workforce and in life.
Each year, Kirkwood celebrates adult learners who return to complete their diplomas or equivalency credentials. In June 2025, nearly 200 adult learners earned their high school diplomas, with graduates ranging from those only a few years removed from school to others returning decades later.
One graduate described the moment as deeply meaningful: “It was an accomplishment that I am very proud of.”
Beyond ceremony and celebration, these diplomas matter in the job market. Adults who earn a high school credential unlock opportunities for higher pay, stable employment, and further education — from career certificates to college degrees.
Removing Barriers, Building Careers
Kirkwood’s Skills to Employment division supports adults facing real barriers — including low income, job loss, and childcare needs — by offering wraparound services that help them complete training and enter the workforce.
Last year, the program served 482 individuals, providing more than $1 million in financial support for tuition, books, and essential services. That support is personal, not just financial.
One participant wrote: “Shane has been a great help with getting me signed up for classes and exploring future opportunities. Thanks Shane!”
Another reflected on the emotional journey: “Creating Futures has saved my life. Helping me see a future… Amy showed me it is ok to go slow and just keep moving forward.”
These programs help adults not just gain skills — but confidence.
Workforce Outcomes That Strengthen the Region
The economic impact of adult education is measurable.
Through the federally supported WIOA Adult Program, Kirkwood participants achieved strong outcomes, including measurable skill gains far exceeding state goals and median earnings of $9,796 after program exit. Dislocated workers — adults rebuilding after job loss — found employment at a 90% rate within the second quarter after completing training. These results contribute directly to a skilled regional workforce, stronger household incomes, and a more competitive economy.
Partnering With Employers to Drive Growth
Kirkwood also works directly with local businesses, delivering customized training that keeps Iowa’s workforce strong. Last year, Kirkwood Corporate Training partnered with 120 companies to deliver 421 customized classes, with employees and employers benefitting.
New initiatives, including an Industrial Technician Apprenticeship Program, are helping address labor shortages in high-skill sectors while building sustainable pipelines for regional employers.
These partnerships ensure that employers can grow, innovate and remain competitive — while giving adult learners direct pathways into in-demand careers.
From Language to Career Launch
Foundational literacy and language programs also play a key role. Kirkwood’s Adult Education and Literacy program served 1,537 individuals last year through high school equivalency preparation, adult diploma completion, and English language learning.
One remarkable success story is Rukhsar Azizi, who began ESL classes after immigrating from Afghanistan. Through persistence and Kirkwood support, she gained the skills to secure meaningful work, support other immigrants, and open her own business in Iowa City. Her journey demonstrates how adult education strengthens not only individual lives, but entire communities.
Flexible Learning for Adult Lives and Careers
Kirkwood continues to expand flexible options for adult learners, including hybrid programs that combine online and hands-on training. Programs such as EKG Technician and Pet Grooming allow students to balance education with work and family obligations.
Over the past decade, approximately 254,000 individuals have completed open-enrollment certificates and courses through Career and Community Education. From career training to personal enrichment, Kirkwood provides opportunities for adults at every stage of life.
A Future Within Reach
Every diploma earned, every credential completed and every barrier removed strengthens not only individual lives, but the economic future of Eastern Iowa. For adults like Davia, for graduates returning years later to finish high school, and for learners building new careers through short-term training or college degrees, Kirkwood is helping transform possibility into progress.
By helping adults gain the skills local employers need — from foundational education and English language learning to industry credentials, customized training and college pathways — Kirkwood is fueling regional growth one learner at a time.
And those opportunities are available to anyone ready to take the next step.
Whether someone is looking to complete high school, earn a short-term workforce credential, advance in their current job, or pursue one of Kirkwood’s more than 150 credit majors, degrees, diplomas and certificates, Kirkwood offers flexible pathways designed for adult lives and real-world goals.
Anyone interested in taking the first step can visit Kirkwood’s website, www.kirkwood.edu, to explore programs, training opportunities, and student support services. Those who want to speak with someone directly can contact the college at 319-398-5411.
At Kirkwood, it’s never too late to begin again — and the dream of a better future is closer than many adults realize.