Kirkwood Regional Center at the University of Iowa

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Kirkwood Regional Center at the University of Iowa Helping area students explore their interests through free college credits in high school. Liberal Arts and Sciences transfer courses.

Today’s global economy is causing significant changes in the way we deliver education.

- 70% of all new jobs require training beyond high school.
- The future economy is placing a premium on technical skill.
- Growing demand for careers requiring stronger preparation in the areas of science, technology, engineering and math (STEM).
- Today’s career paths must be aligned with economic needs.
- Students learn today by doing and being more entrepreneurial in their approach.
- Given this change, secondary and post-secondary institutions are beginning to work together to ensure seamless college and career transitions for students. Opportunity

The Kirkwood Regional Center at the University of Iowa is a long-term educational investment for the central Kirkwood region offering traditional college programming as well as:

Innovative, high tech career academies with industry recognized certifications. College readiness assessment, placement exams, National Career Readiness Certification. Financial aid services, academic advising and career counseling services. Grant Wood Area Education Agency Services
Kirkwood Continuing Education courses and certification programs. Students may follow several different pathways after completing Kirkwood's career academies (link to Career Academies). Examples include college certificates, diplomas, associates, bachelors and graduate degrees, in addition to immediate employment. Workplace Learning Connection

Co-locating at the Kirkwood Regional Center at the University of Iowa is the Workplace Learning Connection (link to Workplace Learning) Fully embedded in the learning experience at the regional center, the Workplace Learning Connection brings students together with local business and industry to provide job shadows and internships. Workplace Learning Connection is a valuable career exploration tool schools can use to help students understand that what they’re learning in school is applicable to real life. Recent job shadow data indicates that Kirkwood’s programming aligns with many “hot jobs” students want including health care occupations, engineering and teaching.

🚁 Our College Credit in High School EMT students had an incredible hands-on learning opportunity this morning when the U...
10/27/2026

🚁 Our College Credit in High School EMT students had an incredible hands-on learning opportunity this morning when the University of Iowa Air Care helicopter landed right here in our parking lot! 🚁👏

Students got an up-close look at the aircraft, learned about emergency air medical transport, and gained valuable insight into the fast-paced world of emergency medicine. Thank you to the Air Care crew for taking the time to share their knowledge and inspire the next generation of EMS professionals! 🚑💙

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We're officially on Instagram! 🎉✨ Follow 📱 to stay up to date with academy information, student success stories, events...
10/24/2026

We're officially on Instagram! 🎉✨

Follow 📱 to stay up to date with academy information, student success stories, events, reminders, and behind-the-scenes moments! 🌟👏

Be part of our journey and help us grow our community by giving us a follow! 💙

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✨ Student Spotlight ✨Ashlin Wonick is a senior at Clear Creek Amana High School and began the Automotive Technology Acad...
10/23/2026

✨ Student Spotlight ✨

Ashlin Wonick is a senior at Clear Creek Amana High School and began the Automotive Technology Academy at KRCUI this fall.

Ashlin has participated in two Workplace Learning Connections job shadow experiences: Nursing Career Day and FBI Career Day. Reflecting on those opportunities, she shared:

"Even though these career paths were not for me, they were great opportunities to explore different options and reflect on what I want for my future."

Ashlin enjoys her experience in the Automotive Technology Academy and has learned the importance of asking for help when needed rather than trying to figure everything out on her own.

The academy has provided valuable exposure to the automotive industry while also allowing her to experience Kirkwood's main campus. Looking ahead, Ashlin plans to pursue her Associate of Arts degree after high school graduation.

Instructor Glen Peters shared:

"Ashlin demonstrates the perseverance and work ethic employers are looking for. She quickly adapted to the college workload and excelled. Ashlin is easy to coach, completes work ahead of schedule, and has a perfect attendance record. She works independently while knowing when to seek assistance. I believe she has a bright future in whatever path she chooses."

When asked about entering a traditionally male-dominated field, Ashlin said:

"At first, it was strange walking into a room with mostly men and only one other girl, but it gave me the opportunity to show that I can do the same work and don't need to be treated differently because I am a girl."

We are proud to have Ashlin as part of the academy and look forward to watching her continued success. 🌟💪🎓

Parents of Seniors: 💰Getting ready to fill out the FAFSA? A little preparation can make the process much easier. Check ...
10/21/2026

Parents of Seniors:

💰Getting ready to fill out the FAFSA? A little preparation can make the process much easier. Check the graphic for what you’ll want to have ready before you start, then go to FAFSA.gov. 👉 https://studentaid.gov/

👉The truth? Construction is smart, skilled and full of opportunity. High schoolers can start building their future today...
10/16/2026

👉The truth? Construction is smart, skilled and full of opportunity. High schoolers can start building their future today!

Learn more www.kirkwood.edu/careeracademies.

✨ Student Spotlight ✨Ali Harper, a senior at Tipton High School, began the Advanced Manufacturing and Welding Academy th...
10/14/2026

✨ Student Spotlight ✨

Ali Harper, a senior at Tipton High School, began the Advanced Manufacturing and Welding Academy this fall. Prior to joining the academy, Ali participated in a Technician Apprenticeship Internship with RPM Revival, where she earned a scholarship and an invitation to return to the company after graduation.

Reflecting on her first few weeks in the academy, Ali shared:

"My first weeks at the Academy have been great. I never thought I would earn an OSHA certification so quickly. Within the first week, I became OSHA 10 certified. I wouldn't change anything about this course. I love it so far and am excited to continue learning."

Ali's passion for welding began early:

"When I was in 8th grade, I knew I wanted to work in a trade. My dad owned a business, and I always admired that leadership. I started watching videos about different trades on YouTube and became fascinated with welding. After seeing one particular video, everything clicked. Since then, I've continued learning, watching videos, and gaining hands-on experience. A friend's stepdad showed me welding techniques and tips, and when I started stick welding in high school, I fell in love with it immediately. Now I'm a senior taking college classes and working toward my welding certificate."

As a young woman pursuing a career in a traditionally male-dominated field, Ali has remained determined to succeed.

"I knew from the start that welding was a male-dominated field, and I knew no one would take it easy on me. Whenever I thought about quitting, I remembered a quote from JB Mauney: 'If you fuel your journey on the opinions of others, you are going to run out of gas.' That motivates me to keep working hard, improve every day, and pursue what I love."

We are proud to have Ali as part of the academy and look forward to watching her continued success. ✨🌟📚

✨ A special thank-you to the Kirkwood Community College Facilities Crew for providing KRCUI with new picnic tables! 💙Stu...
10/10/2026

✨ A special thank-you to the Kirkwood Community College Facilities Crew for providing KRCUI with new picnic tables! 💙

Students, staff, and faculty have already been enjoying this welcoming outdoor space. Whether waiting for a ride, visiting with friends, or simply taking a break between classes, the picnic tables have quickly become a favorite gathering spot.

📸 Pictured: Dawn Wood, Dean of Global Learning, visiting with KRCUI students.

🛠️ It’s Careers in Construction Month — and ACE students are getting a head start in Architecture, Construction, and Eng...
10/09/2026

🛠️ It’s Careers in Construction Month — and ACE students are getting a head start in Architecture, Construction, and Engineering by earning credentials, learning hands-on, and training for high-demand jobs.

ACE students are stepping up to fill the gap and build what’s next. 🔨 Learn more at www.kirkwood.edu/careeracademies

Hey Kirkwood Parents - Mid-terms are just around the corner. A little encouragement can make a big difference! 💙
10/08/2026

Hey Kirkwood Parents - Mid-terms are just around the corner. A little encouragement can make a big difference! 💙

Address

2301 Oakdale Boulevard
Coralville, IA
52241

Opening Hours

Monday 8am - 4am
Tuesday 8am - 4am
Wednesday 8am - 4am
Thursday 8am - 4am
Friday 8am - 4pm

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