Improving Access to Career-Connected Learning in Iowa
Iowa is building a strong, statewide approach to career‑connected learning so students graduate with the skills, knowledge, and real‑world experience needed to succeed in high‑skill, high‑wage, and high‑demand careers. The Iowa Department of Education (Iowa DOE) is identifying and aligning a comprehensive list of industry‑recognized credentials with Iowa’s high‑demand occupations and working to expand access to high-quality work‑based learning.
Strengthening the connection between what students learn, the hands‑on experiences they participate in, and the credentials they can earn will create clearer, more meaningful career pathways.
The Iowa DOE is partnering with the Midwest Comprehensive Center to create clear, employer‑aligned pathways that prepare students for high‑skill, high‑demand careers across the state.
Midwest CC will support the Iowa DOE by:
- Identifying and sharing national best practices in credential alignment and work‑based learning;
- Engaging education, industry, and workforce stakeholders to build strong partnerships;
- Developing tools and resources for statewide education and industry partners; and
- Supporting strategic decision‑making, including the development and implementation of policies and practices that improve student access to career‑connected learning.
This work will help ensure students have access to experiential work based learning opportunities that move them toward earning valuable credentials employers recognize.
