Opportunity Dubuque Mid-Year Progress Report

At the halfway mark of Fiscal Year 2026, Opportunity Dubuque continues to provide tuition-free, skills-based training that connects job seekers with career paths in high-demand in the Greater Dubuque region. This collaborative workforce initiative, supported by the City of Dubuque, Dubuque County, the Dubuque Racing Association (DRA), Greater Dubuque Development, Northeast Iowa Community College (NICC), and employer partners, remains a key driver in building a strong regional talent pipeline.

Highlights of the mid-year report include:

• 25 learners have been funded by Greater Dubuque Development so far for certificate programs that develop high-demand skills, positioning them for success in the regional workforce.
• An additional 114 students are enrolled in Opportunity Dubuque approved certificate programs, with tuition supported by other funding sources.
• Career coaches and partners continue to meet people where they are, generating 12 unique referrals through success team partners and by participating in 16 outreach events to increase awareness and access to training opportunities.

This year as in previous years, certificate program offerings align with ongoing and emerging employer needs, including Certified Nurse Aide (CNA), Emergency Medical Technician (EMT), semi-truck driving (CDL), and building construction and equipment operator pathways. Certificate areas of focus are identified our annual Skills Gap Analysis, developed partnership with NICC,  and validated by our InfoAction program, which conducts interviews with over 250 businesses in the Greater Dubuque region each year. 

The Opportunity Dubuque program has proven success in career track employment through education. Since its inception, the program has maintained a 93% continuing education and/or employment rate among its graduates, meaning nearly all students completing training find jobs in their field or continue their education. This statistic underscores the program’s effectiveness in preparing individuals for sustainable careers that support both personal growth and regional economic development.

In the second half of FY26, Opportunity Dubuque will focus on:

• Strengthening employer connections so more participants transition from training into quality local jobs.
• Sustaining outreach and referral pipelines with community partners to maintain enrollment momentum and expand access.
• Continuing to reduce barriers that can derail completion, especially for learners balancing work, family, transportation, and child care needs.

Through a strong network of partners and a shared commitment to workforce readiness, Opportunity Dubuque continues to equip people with the skills they need to thrive while helping employers meet real, immediate talent needs.

For more information about Opportunity Dubuque or to get involved, contact Nic Hockenberry, Director of Workforce Programming at nicolash@greaterdubuque.org or 563-557-9049.