Northeast Iowa Community College

In this age of rapidly changing technology, the automotive repair field demands personnel who are trained in the latest methods of diagnosis and repair. If you are mechanically inclined and willing to learn the necessary skills, you will find many opportunities in the automotive field. Instruction is provided in the basic skills as well as on modern, up-to-date diagnostic equipment.

The Automotive Technology program is designed to provide the expertise to repair and maintain technologically advanced vehicles and gives students the opportunity to acquire a thorough understanding of the basic principles, purposes and operation of the various systems and components of today’s automobiles. The automotive laboratories are well-equipped for training in all facets of automobile repair, including theory and practical application in diagnosis and tune-up, electrical and hydraulic systems, automatic transmissions, engines, emission controls, fuel systems, brake systems, suspensions systems and hybrid vehicle systems. Program graduates find a wide range of employment opportunities in automotive dealerships, mass-merchandisers, fleets, independent garages and service stations.

This program teaches the knowledge and skills required to safely operate a commercial motor vehicle (CMV). Federal standards require that 14 days prior to testing the participants must obtain the Commercial Learner's Permit (CDL Permit), which requires passing the General Knowledge, Combination Vehicle and Air Brakes tests. A combination of classroom, home study, practice range and road time prepares the student to perform vehicle inspection, basic control of the vehicle, backing up, defensive driving and hazard awareness. Upon successful completion of instruction and testing, students may obtain a Class A Commercial Driver's License (CDL).

The semi-truck driving training program is designed to train for a career that offers freedom, stability and competitive pay. You will develop skills in backing, turning and safe driving, on both rural and suburban roads, using a variety of training techniques including web-based and classroom instruction.

Individuals will be prepared for entry-level work in the carpentry, HVAC and electrical construction trades or to pursue additional education or training in construction trades. The program includes a comprehensive core track that teaches job readiness and teamwork skills, Occupational Safety and Health Administration (OSHA) construction safety principles and American Heart Association CPR/First Aid. In a combination of classroom instruction and hands-on lab experience, students will be introduced to basic construction concepts and technical skills including rough framing, concrete, insulation, building codes and permits, basic HVAC, electrical and plumbing and finish carpentry.

The Building Trades program provides students with entry level skills to enter the workforce and is ideal for both new students or someone in the field. Students will be involved in remodel, renovation, and new construction on job sites and lab settings. Students will be tested on basic competencies in the construction field and upon completion will have a solid understanding of the construction field and skills required. While in the program, students will gain an understanding of how to use basic trade tools in a safe and efficient manner.

The Carpentry program offers education and practical experience in basic residential carpentry. Students will receive competency-based instruction in the use of up-to-date carpentry production equipment such as saws, jointers, sanders and routers. Practical experience is provided through construction of a residence each year by the carpentry students. As the carpentry trade is one of the most basic trades in society, employment opportunities for carpenters may be found in communities of all sizes.

Individuals will be prepared for entry-level work in the carpentry, HVAC and electrical construction trades or to pursue additional education or training in construction trades. The program includes a comprehensive core track that teaches job readiness and teamwork skills, Occupational Safety and Health Administration (OSHA) construction safety principles and American Heart Association CPR/First Aid. In a combination of classroom instruction and hands-on lab experience, students will be introduced to basic construction concepts and technical skills including rough framing, concrete, insulation, building codes and permits, basic HVAC, electrical and plumbing and finish carpentry.

The Commercial-Residential Electrician program offers an opportunity to gain practical, hands-on experience in residential and commercial electrical service installation as well as a solid theoretical foundation. You are given the opportunity to acquire skills and training in alternating and direct current, National Electrical Code, electrical design, motor control principles and motor repair through classroom experience and a student building project that provides on-site activities.

The Industrial Electrician program is designed to provide students with the knowledge and skills needed to be successful in the electrical field. Students learn the basic principles of electricity in DC/AC theory, the rules set up for the industry in National Electrical Code, and the fundamental skills required by the job market in motor repair, motor control principles, solid state fundamentals, industrial principles and design, and programmable logic controllers. Students acquire knowledge and skills through classroom experiences and on-site activities at a student building project.

Individuals will be prepared for entry-level work in the carpentry, HVAC and electrical construction trades or to pursue additional education or training in construction trades. The program includes a comprehensive core track that teaches job readiness and teamwork skills, Occupational Safety and Health Administration (OSHA) construction safety principles and American Heart Association CPR/First Aid. In a combination of classroom instruction and hands-on lab experience, students will be introduced to basic construction concepts and technical skills including rough framing, concrete, insulation, building codes and permits, basic HVAC, electrical and plumbing and finish carpentry.

The Heating and Air Conditioning program prepares students to install, maintain and operate heating and air conditioning equipment. Students will gain theoretical knowledge of operations by learning how to install, diagnose, and repair electric and gas-fired furnaces, motors, compressors and evaporators, as well as following blueprints and design specifications. As part of the program, students will complete a 10-hour OSHA course.

The CAD Specialist certificate offers students an opportunity to acquire proficiency in computer-aided design. It can serve as an introduction to general CAD skills as a springboard to further study, as a short program for the development of specific skills to obtain immediate employment or as a bridge to upgrade existing skills with the latest in CAD technology. This certificate presents students with hands-on activities in two- and three-dimensional computer generation, presentation quality drawings, blueprint fundamentals, solid modeling and computer animation and simulation techniques. Students will work with computer programs that will allow you to construct commercial-grade graphics, animation and special effects.

Students will be prepared to safely, efficiently and professionally operate construction equipment used in a variety of construction sites including residential and commercial building, road construction, maintenance and utility installation and repair. The program includes a comprehensive core track that teaches job readiness and teamwork skills, Occupational Safety and Health Administration (OSHA) construction safety principles and American Heart Association CPR/ First Aid. Through a combination of classroom instruction and hands-on lab experiences, students will be introduced to equipment applications, sustainability practices, powertrain, hydraulic and electrical system inspections, flagger skills and operation of a forklift, skid steer and mini-excavator. Upon successful completion of the program, students may pursue optional certifications, additional education or seek immediate entry-level employment as an equipment operator.

The Welding (GMAW) Career Pathway Certificate program teaches the principles of interpreting manufacturing-part blueprints, the use of basic measuring tools and identification of welding symbols. Students will also learn Gas Metal Arc Welding (GMAW) processes, principles, benefits and the development of safe working habits and familiarity with welding-related equipment. This program is designed to prepare students for employment or continuation in our extended welding diploma program.

This Welding (Basic) Career Pathway Certificate introduces the concepts and practice of blueprint interpretation as needed by welders in an industrial setting. Emphasis is on the basics of interpretation and application in specific situations. A study will be made of gas metal arc welding. Topics such as process variation, welding in various positions, principle of operation, shielding gases, and filler rods/wires will be studied. Safety and practical application of these welding processes will be emphasized.

Welding offers rewarding and challenging career opportunities both indoors and outdoors in a variety of industries ranging from repair jobs to fabrication/construction activities. If you look around, almost everything made of metal is welded. The world’s tallest buildings, airplanes, ships, race cars, home appliances and automobiles are just a few examples. There are many ways to make a weld, and there is a wide variety of metals and alloys that can be welded. Welding has become complex and technical and requires a great deal of knowledge to be able to select the proper process for critical work. Excellent hand-eye coordination are attributes of highly-skilled and well-paid welders. This program will prepare students to take an AWS Qualification Exam.

This 118-hour pathway certificate prepares students for entry-level work as caregivers in a child care center and/or transfer into the Early Childhood Education diploma program. Instruction begins with an introduction to the early childhood profession in which major learning theories, ethical standards, and current trends that influence best practice are explored. Students will learn assessment strategies to plan developmentally appropriate curriculum and practice, and how health, safety and nutrition influence the motor, cognitive and emotional development of young children. Sixteen hours of field observation in a variety of actual childcare settings exposes students to culturally, linguistically and ability-diverse young children and families. A component of this program is approved as a substitute for the "Essentials Preservice/Orientation for Child Care Providers" that meets requirements of the Iowa Department of Human Services (DHS) and the Federal Child Care Development Block Grants. Upon successful completion of this career pathway certificate, students will also have completed Mandatory Reporter, CPR/First Aid, and Blood Borne Pathogen certifications.

The Early Childhood Education certificate is comprised of four courses and can be completed in one or two semesters. It is intended to provide the latest information and skills needed for an entry-level position in a child care program. This certificate meets the requirements for clock hours of formal child care education required for the Child Development Associate (CDA) credential. Additional requirements that meet the work hours required for the CDA credential can be obtained in the Early Childhood diploma program. Upon completion of the certificate program, the successful student will be prepared to practice appropriate guidance techniques, recognize and carry out appropriate activities and assessment for young children, maintain a healthy and safe setting and be able to communicate effectively with children and families.

The Early Childhood Education diploma program prepares students for careers working with children 0-8 years of age in a variety of educational settings. Students enrolled in the program receive education in the guidance and supervision of young children during indoor and outdoor activities, as well as the development and delivery of curriculum in dramatic play, art, music, literature, language, science, math and health. They also develop an understanding of the principles of child development, safety procedures, assessment and evaluation, communication skills, and nutritional needs. Graduates are employed as early childhood professionals in child care centers, child development in-home provider settings, preschools, and public or private schools working with infants, toddlers, preschoolers, or school-age children.

The Emergency Medical Technician (EMT) Career Pathway Certificate delivers the National Standard Curriculum for Emergency Medical Technicians as defined by the National Highway Traffic Safety Administration and is preparatory for the National Registry of Emergency Medical Technicians psychomotor and cognitive examinations. The combination of classroom, hands-on lab, off-site clinical and field experience addresses emergency medical services skills, patient rights and communication.

The goal of the Paramedic program is to prepare competent entry-level paramedics in the cognitive (knowledge), psychomotor (skills), and affective (behavior) learning domains with or without exit points at the Advanced Emergency Medical Technician and/or Emergency Medical Technician and/or Emergency Medical Responder levels. Paramedics, working under the direction of a physician (often through radio communication), recognize, assess and manage medical emergencies of acutely ill or injured patients in pre-hospital and emergency care settings. Paramedics work primarily in advanced life-support units and ambulance services under medical supervision and direction. Some Paramedics are employed by community fire deparmentsand/or police departments, hospitals, private companies, or as community volunteers.

The goal of the Paramedic program is to prepare competent entry-level paramedics in the cognitive (knowledge), psychomotor (skills), and affective (behavior) learning domains with or without exit points at the Advanced Emergency Medical Technician and/or Emergency Medical Technician and/or Emergency Medical Responder levels. Paramedics, working under the direction of a physician (often through radio communication), recognize, assess and manage medical emergencies of acutely ill or injured patients in pre-hospital and emergency care settings. Paramedics work primarily in advanced life-support units and ambulance services under medical supervision and direction. Some Paramedics are employed by community fire deparmentsand/or police departments, hospitals, private companies, or as community volunteers.

Paralegals assist attorneys in the delivery of legal services. Through formal education, training and experience, paralegals have knowledge and expertise regarding the legal system as well as substantive and procedural law, qualifying them to do work of a legal nature under the supervision of an attorney. The general education courses completed for this degree help you to continue your formal education at a four-year college or enter employment. The AAS concentration is a useful beginning, allowing you to seek professional employment and help fund your continuing academic pursuits.

Being trained as a CNC Machinist provides students opportunities throughout the region. The program provides the skills necessary to do a safe setup and operation of manual machines including lathes, mills, grinders, saws, and hand tools. You will learn to operate, setup and program a variety of CNC machines, design and program using CAD/CAM systems and design tools and fixtures to increase productivity. The CNC Machinist program will prepare you for successful employment in a manufacturing career.

The Computer Numerical Control (CNC) Operator Career Pathway Certificate program stresses principles of interpreting manufacturing part blueprints and the use of basic measuring tools. The program will teach proper use of CNC mills and lathes, safely setting tool and fixture offsets and use of verified programs to complete part projects on machinery. You will also be introduced to G and M code programming for 2-axis CNC lathes and 3-axis CNC mills.

Engineering technicians are vital members of an engineering team. Technicians provide technical support and assistance throughout the design and manufacturing process. The Engineering Technology program is designed to educate and train skilled technicians needed for the design and development of new products from concept to completion, analysis and design of production systems and processes involved in manufacturing operations and services, implementation of quality control and continuous improvement processes and the application of lean principles. Engineering Technology students will develop a multi-discipline skill base, preparing them for the high-level tasks they are required to excel in today's global market place.

The Industrial Maintenance Technician program provides comprehensive knowledge of different mechanical, hydraulic and electrical processes. Upon completing the program students will have the base competencies to perform at a higher level in an industrial maintenance position. The skills for installation, preventive maintenance, diagnostics, and equipment repair remain in high demand. As such, employment opportunities as an industrial maintenance technician are excellent. Program graduates will find their skills in demand in hospitals, schools, manufacturing, industrial/processing as well as on general building maintenance sites. Whether a part of a large corporation or a small business entity, graduates are assured of a challenging but rewarding career with promising promotional potential.

This 138-hour certificate program is designed to provide students with the fundamental knowledge and skills necessary to install, maintain, troubleshoot, and repair equipment found in a variety of industries. This program includes a 10-hour OSHA (Occupational Safety and Health Administration) certification which must be earned to move on to the introduction of the tools and the materials frequently used in industrial maintenance. Students learn to read and prepare electrical blueprints and study the basic theories of hydraulics and pneumatics necessary to troubleshoot or to operate fluid power equipment.

The Computer Analyst program (Associate of Applied Science) offers two AAS options: Business and Web Programming and Networking Administration and Tech Support. The common core provides students with the flexibility of changing options at the conclusion of the first semester. Combining robust technical skills with strong communication skills is important to successfully prepare students for employment in today’s computer industry. The program is designed to prepare students for a position as an application programmer, maintenance programmer, web designer or web developer, technical support person, microcomputer consultant, trainer, networking administrator or network support person.

The field of computer science has provided graduates automation tools for all careers. The Computer Technology, Networking and Programming program prepares for information technology employment by offering the technical skills necessary through a combination of classroom and hands-on experiences. Computer Technology, Networking and Programming graduates are needed in business and industry, and the demand is high. Graduates of this program are well equipped for current and future information technology careers.

The Computer Analyst program (Associate of Applied Science) offers two AAS options: Business and Web Programming and Networking Administration and Tech Support. The common core provides students with the flexibility of changing options at the conclusion of the first semester. Combining robust technical skills with strong communication skills is important to successfully prepare you for employment in today’s computer industry. The program is designed to prepare students for a position as an application programmer, maintenance programmer, web designer or web developer, technical support person, microcomputer consultant, trainer, networking administrator or network support person.

The field of computer science has provided graduates automation tools for all careers. The Computer Technology, Networking and Programming program prepares for information technology employment by offering the technical skills necessary through a combination of classroom and hands-on experiences. Computer Technology, Networking and Programming graduates are needed in business and industry, and the demand is high. Graduates of this program are well equipped for current and future information technology careers.

The Web Application Bootcamp provides the basic tools to become a web developer and is offered in an intensive, eight-week experience. This program will enable participants to understand the basics of coding and data structures, develop proficiency in JavaScript and Python coding languages and apply development tools to a real-world project. At the completion of the program, participants will be equipped for positions as web developers.

The Culinary Foundations Career Pathway Certificate is an 80-hour hands-on program designed to prepare students with little or no culinary experience for a rewarding career in the culinary field. Successful students will be ready for entry-level positions as cooks or servers in a variety of hospitality settings. The training provides an overview of the culinary industry, including terminology, techniques and standards, from front-of-house to back-of-house. A core skill track that covers effective communication, professionalism, teamwork and conflict resolution is combined with instruction in food safety and proper operation of cooking equipment for a safe work environment.

The Dental Assisting curriculum is career-oriented. It prepares the student, as a member of the dental health team, to assist the dentist in all phases of dentistry. The program includes chairside procedures associated with general and specialty dentistry, radiology, laboratory and business office assistance. Clinical experience is an integral part of the educational program with rotations through various dental facilities.

Medical assistants are allied health professionals who perform administrative and clinical functions that support the services of physicians and other health practitioners in a medical office setting. Duties vary depending on the practice and scope of practice in the state. Clinical duties can include collecting and preparing laboratory specimens, performing basic laboratory tests, sterilizing medical equipment, doing blood draws, taking electrocardiograms, and preparing patients for x-rays. Administrative functions include patient scheduling, patient registration, performing billing services, and purchasing and maintaining supplies. Medical Assistants, if directed by a physician and state law, might instruct patients about medications and special diets, prepare and administer medications, authorize drug refills and telephone prescriptions to a pharmacy.

The Medical Laboratory Technician program prepares students to work under supervision of a medical technologist, pathologist or other qualified physician in a medical laboratory. A technician performs tests that aid in the diagnosis and treatment of disease. This program offers students the opportunity to take two semesters of study at Northeast Iowa Community College and a summer term plus one semester at Hawkeye Community College (HCC) in Waterloo, Iowa before completing the 24-week clinical internship. NICC is an academic affiliate of the Medical Laboratory Technician program at HCC.

The Certified Nurse Aide (CNA) Career Pathway Certificate is the first step toward a career helping others in healthcare settings. It prepares students for employment as a nurse aide and fulfills the prerequisite for admission into the Northeast Iowa Community College nursing program. The fast-paced combination of classroom, hands-on lab and off-site clinical experience addresses basic nursing and personal care skills, patient rights and communication. Special attention to mental, physical and social health of geriatric and special populations is included.

The online Pharmacy Technician program will prepare students to enter the pharmacy field and take the Pharmacy Technician Certification Board’s (PTCB) exam. Course content addresses the history and practice of pharmacy in multiple environments, terminology, and reading/interpreting prescriptions. You will also learn dosage calculations, drug classifications, the "top 200 drugs", aseptic technique, the handling of sterile products and total parenteral nutrition (TPN), as well as dispensing of prescriptions, inventory control, and billing and reimbursement. The program also includes an optional clinical externship at a local healthcare provider.

This 180-hour certificate program prepares students to collect, transport and process blood and other specimens for laboratory analysis. The program includes 60 hours of classroom instruction in anatomy and physiology of the circulatory system, infection control and safety principles, medical terminology and customer service skills, based on the latest Clinical and Laboratory Standards Institute (CLSI) standards. Students will also learn to meet minimum competencies in phlebotomy by participating in 120 clinical hours at various local laboratories. Students who successfully complete this program will be eligible and adequately prepared to take the American Society for Clinical Pathology (ASCP) Phlebotomy Technician certification examination.

This program of classroom, lab and clinical experience will prepare you for employment in hospitals, nursing homes and a variety of other healthcare facilities. The practical nurse gives nursing care to patients under the supervision of the registered nurse (RN) and assists RNs in providing care to patients in more complex situations. Following successful completion of the program, students are eligible to write the National Licensure Examination (NCLEX) to become a licensed practical nurse (LPN).

The mission of the Radiologic Technology program is to provide an ambitious didactic and clinical education that will produce compassionate, confident and professional technologists. The program will provide a variety of work settings and experiences to successfully prepare graduates to function as entry-level radiographers. A qualified graduate will be eligible to take the national registry examination, thereby becoming a certified registered radiographer.

Respiratory care practitioners are allied health specialists who play a crucial role within the healthcare team. Working closely with physicians and other healthcare professionals, they care for patients with respiratory and cardiovascular conditions. Under the supervision of a physician, they are involved with the assessment, treatment, diagnostic testing, rehabilitation and prevention of conditions that affect the respiratory and cardiovascular systems. Employment opportunities are found in hospitals, clinics, home healthcare agencies, product support and sales, education, rehabilitation and continuing care and health/disease prevention programs.

Surgical technologists are allied health professionals who are an integral part of the team of medical practitioners providing surgical care to patients in a variety of settings. The Surgical Technology program is offered at Northeast Iowa Community College through a distance education agreement with Kirkwood Community College (KCC), Cedar Rapids, IA. Students take the Kirkwood Surgical Technology courses over ZOOM at NICC and the general education requirements through NICC. Lab courses are taught by Kirkwood faculty at a local hospital.

The Diesel/Heavy Equipment Technology program prepares students for careers in any industry that utilizes trucks

The Diesel/Heavy Equipment Technology program prepares students for careers in any industry that utilizes trucks

The Graphic Design program is a design-based educational program that equips students with skills and materials necessary to compete for professional design positions upon graduation. Additionally, students are well-prepared to major in design, marketing, communications or journalism if they choose to continue their education.