Business : Kirkwood to Host Education to Employment Expo Oct. 21

Kirkwood Community College will host the Education to Employment Expo on Tuesday, October 21, at the Kirkwood Continuing Education & Training Center (KCETC), located at 101 50th Ave. SW, Cedar Rapids. The Expo will run in two sessions: 9–11 a.m. for high school juniors and seniors and 1–3 p.m. for the general public.

The Expo is designed to connect attendees with short-term training programs and other options that provide job-ready skills without requiring a full degree. Visitors can explore FastTrack Career Certificates in areas such as Phlebotomy, Certified Nursing Assistant (CNA), Pet Grooming, Paraeducator, Industrial Technology, Truck Driving, Business Training and more.

Guests will also have the chance to:

• Speak directly with Kirkwood Continuing Education staff about training options
• Learn about pathways for students still in high school, recent graduates or adults seeking a career change
• Tour hands-on learning labs and see live demonstrations
• Meet with Skills to Employment and IowaWORKS representatives to explore tuition assistance and financial support options

“This Expo is a great way for students and community members to explore career options in a hands-on, engaging way,” said Kirkwood Program Developer Kristi Hanson. “It’s an opportunity to connect directly with staff, ask questions, and see training spaces and demonstrations up close. Whether you’re still in high school or looking for a career change, Kirkwood’s short-term programs make it possible to move from education to employment quickly and affordably.”

The details for the two sessions are as follows:

Morning Session (9–11 a.m.) – High school juniors and seniors can explore career pathways that begin with short-term training in addition to other opportunities at Kirkwood. Transportation will be provided by participating schools.

Afternoon Session (1–3 p.m.) – Open to the public, this session is ideal for adults considering a career change or new skills training. Attendees can connect with staff, ask questions and explore affordable programs that prepare them for in-demand jobs

*****EVENT*****

What: Kirkwood Community College Education to Employment Expo

When: Tuesday, Oct. 21

Where: Kirkwood Continuing Education & Training Center, 101 50th Ave. SW in Cedar Rapids

Time: 9–11 a.m. for High Schoolers; 1–3 p.m. for the General Public

Kirkwood Continuing Education notes nearly 30,000 annual enrollments in classes ranging from industry certification to career development to personal enrichment. Over the last 20 years, the number of new jobs created through Kirkwood’s Continuing Education & Training Services has exceeded 14,000.