I’d like to share a bit about the vision behind our Pathways Center and the incredible work happening across the State of Iowa to expand career education. We’re thrilled to celebrate this milestone with all of you.
Earlier this year, Governor Kim Reynolds and the Iowa Department of Education announced over $3.6 million in Career Academy Incentive Fund grants awarded to four Iowa community colleges. These funds are designed to expand access to high-quality career academy programs that connect schools, community colleges, local industry, and community partners — empowering more students with multiple pathways to postsecondary success.
We are proud that Iowa Western Community College (IWCC) received a $1 million grant to establish the Glenwood Career Pathways Center, which officially opened this fall right here behind our middle school. This regional center represents a significant investment in the future of our students and community.
As we launch, our goal is to expand to 4 career pathways by the beginning of the 2026-2027 school year. Currently, two pathways are underway, Education and Agricultural Business, both with students already earning college credit through IWCC instructors. This fall, students are engaged in foundational coursework, and next semester they will extend their learning through hands-on career experiences and internships.
Education Pathway students are exploring Foundations of Education and Child Growth and Development, preparing for next semester’s classroom-based field experiences.
Agricultural Business Pathway students are studying Crop Science, Precision Farming Systems, and Pesticide Application before moving into Crop Management, FAA Drone Pilot Certification, and an Ag Business Internship in the spring.
Our Pathways Center is open not only to Glenwood students but also to students from surrounding school districts. Together with the SWITCH Hub in Hastings, which currently offers an HVAC program and CNA programs, as well as other regional centers in Council Bluffs, Atlantic, Clarinda, Missouri Valley, and Harlan, we are part of a strong network of learning hubs that prepare students for Iowa’s high-demand careers.
Through the Career Academy Incentive Fund, participating students can earn industry-recognized credentials, high school and college credit, and invaluable technical and academic skills aligned with real-world workforce needs.
Funding from this grant ensures that we can continue to grow and adapt our programs to meet the ever-changing demands of our economy, giving students the opportunity to explore, learn, and lead in meaningful careers.
Finally, I want to extend a heartfelt thank-you to our students, school board, counselors, families, IWCC instructors and staff, and our community partners for your support and enthusiasm in bringing this vision to life.
Today’s grand opening is just the beginning. We are excited to watch our students’ journeys unfold. Whether that means earning certifications, completing internships, or discovering new career passions, we look forward to continued growth in career and technical education right here in Glenwood, Iowa.
Welcome once again, and thank you for being part of this exciting moment in our district’s and community’s future.