I continue to work closely at the Capitol with legislators to make job creation our number one priority. This week we focused on ensuring Iowa employers are able to hire the skilled workers and providing Iowans with training for available new jobs.|(Press release from Senator Amanda Ragan)
I continue to work closely at the Capitol with legislators to make job creation our number one priority. This week we focused on ensuring Iowa employers are able to hire the skilled workers and providing Iowans with training for available new jobs.
Often what’s needed is specific skill training rather than a two or four-year degree. Iowans can already earn industry-recognized skill certificates in programs such as welding or health care at our community colleges. Unfortunately, there are currently barriers that prevent full participation in these programs and further local job opportunities.
The folks who could benefit most are generally not traditional students, and they’re likely to need financial aid. Specific skill development often doesn’t qualify for existing financial aid, which usually goes to students pursuing academic degrees. That’s why we proposed legislation this week to prevent Iowans from falling through the cracks while attempting to meet employers’ demand for skilled workers.
First, we want to help community colleges reach out to this overlooked group. Community colleges, which work closely with local employers, will provide these students with information about local job openings and the skills needed to do the work. Under our proposal, college counselors will help them put together the personal and financial resources necessary to complete certificate programs and fill those jobs.
Second, to close the gaps in financial aid, we propose helping eligible Iowans with training costs, including: tuition, books, fees and equipment. A pilot program at Kirkwood Community College has already helped 350 Iowa workers get the skills needed at an average tuition cost of about $1,000 per student.
One of those success stories braved the recent blizzard and traveled from Cedar Rapids to Des Moines to speak at our news conference announcing these ideas. Donnie Stanley was an unemployed mom when she entered the pilot program. Three months later, she was a Certified Nursing Assistant. She now works fulltime, supports her family and plans to continue her education.
Building stronger relationships with our community colleges makes sense. After all, community colleges are where Iowa workers go to improve their skills. They have a strong tradition of partnering with businesses to train workers to meet local needs, while making Iowa businesses competitive and profitable.
Donnie Stanley was unemployed and struggling to support her family when she learned of a pilot program at her local community college. It provided her with financial aid so she could earn her CNA (Certified Nursing Assistant) certificate. Now she is working full-time and looking forward to further improving her skills. I met with Stanley when she came to the Iowa Statehouse to share her story. I support a new initiative which would take the pilot program statewide, so all Iowans have the same opportunities.
