Workplace Learning Connection Receives $10,000 IDED Grant

Hosting Two-Day Hands On Workshop for Area Teens

Kirkwood Community College’s Workplace Learning Connection has been awarded a $10,000 grant for expansion of the middle school program, “Target Your Future,” to reach more students throughout the region.

The grant, from Iowa Department of Economic Development’s (IDED) Career Awareness Fund, will help create an event in May on Kirkwood’s main campus to highlight some of the careers in industry sectors such as robotics, genetics, and global positioning.

This two day, hands-on program will introduce approximately 250 young teens to careers in Iowa’s targeted industries of advanced manufacturing, biosciences, and information technology.  Events such as this connect education and careers and provide relevance for the day-to-day “school skills” and the importance of social interaction/employability skills including attendance, teamwork, work ethic, and attitude.

Workplace Learning Connection partners with area schools and local businesses by coordinating career exploration activities for students and teachers.  Through job shadows, internships and career events, Workplace Learning Connection develops future workforce by connecting today’s students to tomorrow’s careers.