COLLEGE GRANT: Iowa Colleges Benefit

Iowa community college students could be more prepared for the job market thanks to the help of a new US Department of Labor grant of almost $13 million.

The money will be split up and used to better manufacturing programs at the campuses.

The students will also earn more industry recognized certifications.

Programs receiving a boost include welding, machining and robotics.

Colleges benefiting from the grant will include: Eastern Iowa Community College, Hawkeye Community College, Iowa Central Community College, Indian Hills Community College, Iowa Lakes Community College, Iowa Valley Community College, Iowa Western Community College, Kirkwood Community College, North Iowa Area Community College, Northeast Iowa Community College, Northwest Iowa Community College, Southeastern Community College, Southwestern Community College, and Western Iowa Tech Community College. 

Lawmakers say as a result, more than 3,000 displaced workers and other adults in need of re-training will be given the opportunity to earn a college credential and industry-recognized certifications in a shortened time frame, making them eligible for high-wage jobs with advancement opportunities in Iowa’s growing manufacturing sector.

It’s the second installment in a $2 billion investment to community colleges and universities around the US for the development and expansion of innovative training programs.