Attracting a suitable workforce is critically important, and a recent labor report clearly illustrates that Ames has the workforce capable of efficiently operating any sized project. Not only is Ames part of a biotechnology-rich corridor in central Iowa, but Ames is also home to Iowa State University, a world-renowned research university.
The Ames Economic Development Commission is proud to partner with and support Workforce Training opportunities in Story County.
Here's just a handful of them:
DMACC Career Academy
Enroll in one of DMACC’s eight Career Academy Programs and enter the workforce with an Associate’s Degree and highly trained in the field of your choice. Programs available on the Ames campus include Automotive Collision Technology, Automotive Mechanics Technology, Building Trades/Finish Carpentry, Criminal Justice, Culinary Arts, Health Occupations and the Teacher Academy.
Learn more about the DMACC Career Academy
FUEL Story County
Formed in 2002 as an affiliate organization of the Ames Chamber of Commerce, FUEL Story County’s (formerly Young Professionals of Ames) mission is to be leaders dedicated to improving the quality of life in Ames, and to establish a community of young professionals dedicated to building and fostering relationships through leadership development, professional development, community outreach, and cultural and social opportunities.
Learn more about FUEL Story County
See Yourself in Ames Summer Intern Program
The Ames Economic Development Commission (AEDC) hosts a series of three or four events over the summer months for interns in the Ames/Story County area. These “See Yourself in Ames” events are an opportunity for local interns to better acquaint themselves with our community and area business leaders. Once interns see what the Ames/Story County area has to offer, we hope they will consider staying in our area once they begin their careers.
Story County Retraining Program
The Story County Retraining Program is free to all residents in Story County who are 18 years or older and have obtained a diploma or GED. It is a partnership between Story County, the Ames Chamber of Commerce, and the Des Moines Area Community College (DMACC), who hosts the classes at their Ames and Boone campuses.
This free Retraining Program provides an opportunity to master new skills and technology that can lead to a new career opportunity in a very short amount of time. The program is currently available in ten different career tracks, but the most popular are the welding and certified nursing assistant (CNA) tracks.
Teaching for the Workforce Academy
In partnership with DMACC, we are pleased to offer the Story County Teaching for the Workforce Academy each summer for regional teachers. This interactive workshop is four days long and is packed with tours, panels, keynotes, and more. After this course, teachers from preschool to high school will have a better understanding of today’s STEM workplaces and build an understanding of skills required for workplace success. Students who attend the academy are eligible for two license renewal credits through the AEA. Registration for the next session will open in Spring 2020.
