In a significant boost to local education, Northwest Iowa Community College (NCC) has been awarded $1 million from the state’s Career Academy Incentive Fund. The grant, part of nearly $4 million distributed by Gov. Kim Reynolds and the Iowa Department of Education, will support the establishment of a new Regional Center in Marcus, Iowa, focused on Career and Technical Education (CTE) programs.
Governor Reynolds praised the initiative, highlighting the importance of career academies in preparing students for in-demand careers and building the next generation of workers in Iowa. The new 7,000-square-foot facility will include classrooms, a computer lab, and a dedicated health care lab for certified nurse assistant education. The center will offer programs in Education, Healthcare, Welding, and Design Technology and will also fund renovations at MMCRU High School.
Dr. John Hartog, President of NCC, expressed gratitude for the grant, emphasizing the college’s commitment to student success and the positive impact on rural communities. The initiative will provide high school students with opportunities to explore career pathways and gain essential workforce skills.
Iowa Department of Education Director McKenzie Snow commended the effort, noting that the grants support work-based learning and help students attain industry-recognized credentials and college credit while still in high school.
This new Regional Center in Marcus is part of NCC’s ongoing expansion of educational opportunities in northwest Iowa, following the opening of its first Regional Center in Sioux Center in 2023. The college looks forward to the continued positive impact on students and local communities.
To see the full story and for more information on NCC’s career academy programs, visit the NCC website.
