MONTICELLO, Iowa (March 25, 2026)–Kirkwood Community College will host its next Jones County Leadership Council meeting on Monday, April 6, at 8:30 a.m. at the Kirkwood Jones County Regional Center. The meeting brings together Kirkwood Trustee Keith Stamp, college administrators, regional center staff, and local community and business leaders to share updates and discuss workforce and education needs across Jones County.
The meeting will feature college-wide updates as well as the latest developments at the Jones County Regional Center. Attendees will also hear a presentation from Kirkwood’s Continuing Education and Training Services division highlighting results from the Skills 2027 survey. The survey gathered input from businesses across Kirkwood’s seven-county service area to better understand workforce needs from 2025 through 2027, including credential requirements, industry-specific talent demands, and strategies to support regional workforce development and career pathways.
Additionally, a panel discussion will include perspectives from a student as well as education and industry partners, featuring Lauren Oltmanns, a Kirkwood College Credit in High School student currently completing a Workplace Learning Connection internship with Jones County Regional Medical Center; Carol Janssen, an Occupational Therapy Assistant internship supervisor at Jones County Regional Medical Center and former Kirkwood graduate; and Joel Althoff, owner of Infrastructure Technology Solutions and a partner with Kirkwood’s Corporate Training program.
“These meetings are an important way for us to stay connected with the communities we serve,” said Kirkwood Jones County Regional Center Director Caitlyn Miller. “They give us the opportunity to share what’s happening at the college while also hearing directly from residents and employers about their needs. That feedback helps shape our programs and ensures we’re preparing students and workers for real opportunities right here in Jones County. We encourage everyone to attend, ask questions and be part of the conversation.”
The Jones County Leadership Council meets twice a year, once in the fall and once in the spring. The public is encouraged to attend and participate in the discussion. Community members will have the opportunity to ask questions and provide feedback on local educational needs and workforce challenges.
To RSVP, contact Caitlyn Miller at caitlyn.miller@kirkwood.edu or call 319-465-2302.
*****EVENT*****
What: Kirkwood Community College Jones County Leadership Council Meeting
Where: The Kirkwood Jones County Regional Center, 220 Welter Drive in Monticello
When: Monday, April 6, from 8:30-10 a.m.
Who can attend: The meeting is open to the public
RSVP: Caitlyn Miller at caitlyn.miller@kirkwood.edu or call 319-465-2302