Earn While You Learn: Building a Stronger Regional Workforce Through Apprenticeships
Friday, April 24, 2026
For Ryan Lekin, the path to a rewarding career didn't start with a mountain of student debt; it started with a hands-on opportunity to "earn while you learn." Ryan recently completed the Computer Numerical Control (CNC) Mold Maker Apprenticeship through Northeast Iowa Community College (NICC), a journey that took him through the complexities of manual machining, parts programming and quality control.
"I thought the program did a good job of laying out the basics of being a machinist," Ryan said. "There was a wide range of topics that were covered, including manual machining with mills, lathes and grinders, CNC machining with mills and lathes, designing and programming parts, quality control, print reading and more.”
Ryan’s success is a testament to the power of Registered Apprenticeship programs, which the College will celebrate during the inaugural Spring National Apprenticeship Week (NAW), April 26 - May 2, 2026. This year’s theme, "America at Work: Making America Skilled Again through Registered Apprenticeship," highlights the critical role these programs play in developing a highly skilled workforce and creating direct pathways to in-demand careers.
“Apprenticeships represent one of the most powerful ways we can align education with real workforce needs,” said Erin Powers Daley, NICC executive director of workforce and programming initiatives. “They create a direct connection between learning and earning, where individuals gain hands-on experience, employers build their future workforce and communities grow stronger. When we invest in apprenticeships, we’re not just training workers, we’re building sustainable career pathways.”
For regional employers, these partnerships are essential for long-term growth. Kelli Klaas, director of human resources at Bodine Electric, has seen the impact firsthand.
“The partnership gives apprentices a structured path to gain both technical skills and real-world experience simultaneously," Kelli said. "They’re learning while contributing meaningfully to our company, which boosts their confidence and engagement. For us, it helps build a pipeline of trained, loyal employees who understand our systems and culture from the ground up.”
The College offers a variety of flexible apprenticeship models to serve the region:
- DOL Registered Apprenticeship - Zurich: As the sponsor, Zurich sets the standards and handles documentation, while sending apprentices to NICC for related training and instruction.
- NICC Registered Apprenticeship - Welding: The College serves as the sponsor and sets standards for multiple businesses that send employees to the program for expert training.
- Non-Registered Apprenticeship - JB Holland Earn and Learn: A flexible pathway of education and employment tailored to specific company needs.
- Computer Numerical Control (CNC) Set-Up Programmer Milling & Turning
- Computer Numerical Control (CNC) Mold Maker
- Computer Numerical Control (CNC) Tool & Die Maker
- Heating & Air Conditioner (HVAC) Install / Service
- Heavy Truck Driver
- Maintenance Electrician
- Maintenance Mechanic
Get more information about apprenticeship opportunities at NICC here.
