Building the Future, One Signature at a Time: NICC Celebrates National Signing Day

For many students, the path to a rewarding career begins with a single signature. This April, Northeast Iowa Community College (NICC) captured the energy typically reserved for major athletic recruitment to celebrate a different kind of "pro" - the future technical workforce.

During the 6th annual National Technical Education Letter of Intent Signing Day, the College welcomed a new class of students at the Peosta campus on April 10 and the Calmar campus on April 17. The events, held in partnership with the National Coalition of Certification Centers (NC3), mirrored the excitement of an NCAA signing day. However, instead of jerseys and helmets, these students committed to high-demand careers in nursing, welding, industrial automation and agriculture business.

For McKayla Weber, a senior at Maquoketa Valley Senior High School, the day was deeply personal. Growing up on a dairy farm, McKayla always knew her future belonged in the fields and barns of her community.

"It was a really special moment," she said. "It feels nice to have a scholarship to help pay for my education. I have always had a passion for the agriculture industry."

McKayla is one of many students heading to the College for the fall 2026 term to turn their passions into professions. To support this journey, participants at both campuses were eligible for program scholarships of up to $1,000. Many may also qualify for Iowa's Last-Dollar Scholarship, a program designed to cover tuition for those entering the state's most critical industries.

Local business leaders were also on hand to welcome their future employees. Jana Ungs, a human resources recruiter at ESAPCO, emphasized that these students are the heartbeat of the regional economy.

"Supporting students as they transition into the workforce helps ensure we continue building strong teams, strong communities and a strong future for the region," Ungs said.

Zach Bickford, a NICC alum and welder at Mi-T-M Corporation, spoke to Peosta event attendees about the value of careers in the 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, spoke at the Calmar event about the need for more 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."

Surrounded by a delegation of faculty, staff, high school counselors and family, the incoming class didn't just sign a piece of paper; they made a promise to themselves and their future. Whether they are pursuing a degree, diploma or certificate, these students are now part of a community dedicated to the dignity of work and the pursuit of excellence.

To watch the Signing Day events, click here.

Signing Day is made possible with the help of our sponsors:

• The Adams Company
• A.Y. McDonald Manufacturing Co.
• Community Savings Bank
• ESAPCO (Engineering Services & Products Company)
• Geothermal Solutions
• Gerein Consulting
• K.C. Nielsen, LTD
• McGrath VW Hyundai
• McGrath Chevy
• Midwest Machinery Co.
• Newt Marine Service
• ProPulse
• Rite Hite