Northeast Iowa Community College Celebrates Future Workforce at National Signing Day Events

Decorah Vikings win, City Council votes, New Referenda on the ballot — we're the one telling Decorah's story. Donate now. CALMAR and PEOSTA, Iowa — Northeast Iowa Community College recognized its newest students during its sixth annual National Technical Education Letter of Intent Signing Day events April 10 at its Peosta campus and April 17 at its Calmar campus. Modeled after National Collegiate Athletic Association National Signing Day for student-athletes, the events highlight students entering career and technical education fields. In partnership with the National Coalition of Certification Centers, NICC welcomed students committing to begin classes in fall 2026 across more than a dozen high-demand programs, including agriculture business, nursing, industrial automation and welding. During the ceremonies, students signed letters of intent formalizing their commitment to the college and their chosen career paths. "It's great working together with NICC to support students and build the future workforce in our area," said Jana Ungs, a human resources recruiter at ESAPCO. "Supporting students as they transition into the workforce helps ensure we continue building strong teams, strong communities and a strong future for the region." Organizers said the events emphasize the value of technical education and its role in supporting the regional economy. Students at both campuses were eligible for program scholarships of up to $1,000, and many may also qualify for Iowa Last-Dollar Scholarship, which covers tuition for several of the programs recognized. "It was a really special moment. It feels nice to have a scholarship to help pay for my education," said McKayla Weber, a senior at Maquoketa Valley High School who plans to study agriculture business at NICC. "I grew up on a dairy farm and have always had a passion for the agriculture industry." The events drew NICC faculty and staff, along with high school counselors, administrators, business leaders, sponsors and media representatives to welcome the incoming class. Zach Bickford, a NICC graduate and welder at Mi-T-M Corp., spoke at the Peosta event about the importance of careers in the skilled trades. "Over the last two decades, some of the most talented and valuable people that I work with have come out of programs at NICC, just like the ones you're entering now," he said. "For those of you entering a skilled trade, your path is crucial." Bill Holland, president of JB Holland Construction, addressed attendees at the Calmar event, emphasizing the need for skilled workers in northeast Iowa. "Your community needs you to learn these trades and come back and help your community flourish," he said. "You are valuable and don't ever forget that." Your inbox, upgraded! Subscribe for free and enjoy handpicked stories, helpful advice, and local insights delivered weekly.