Workforce development is a crucial building block for strong and sustained economic development. Northwest Iowa Development (NWID) is addressing regional workforce challenges through the creation of a Regional Manufacturing Sector Partnership.
NWID is teaming up with several Northwest Iowa manufacturers and Northwest Iowa Community College to implement a unique action plan aimed directly at promoting career opportunities in manufacturing. Utilizing funding resources generated from the partners, a new Manufacturing Sector Career Coach, with a strong background in manufacturing, has been hired to work directly with students and others interested in manufacturing careers to pursue high demand occupations. The promotion of manufacturing career opportunities is supported by an interactive website and a targeted online and social media marketing campaign.
A regional partnership approach to tackling workforce needs is a major building block for economic development.