Creating a stronger workforce, together.
Let’s start a conversation about improving your workforce through training and upskilling.
Like many other communities, finding qualified workers is among the largest and most significant challenges faced by employers.
What sets our region apart are the innovative, forward-thinking organizations and programs that aid local businesses and position workers for both short- and long-term career success.
Opportunity Dubuque is a nationally recognized, collaborative job-training effort developed in response to local employers’ needs for a skilled workforce.
A win-win for students and employers, individuals can complete industry-driven certifications to upgrade their skills or launch new careers.
The program offers training in a variety of disciplines across industries to fill high-demand and high-wage occupations, providing a unique level of flexibility that allows the community to adapt to shifting dynamics and immediate needs in the workforce.
Since 2011, Opportunity Dubuque has had 3,882 certificate completions, with individuals earning industry-recognized credentials aligning with employer demand in fields such as healthcare, advanced manufacturing, construction, transportation, business services, and child care. 92% of those completing certificates were employed or made the decision to continue their education further demonstrating the program's success.
Tuition assistance and child-care support remove barriers and make the program accessible to all.
Reflecting its true collaborative nature, Opportunity Dubuque is offered through Northeast Iowa Community College, funded by Greater Dubuque Development Corp., and supported by commitments from the City of Dubuque, Dubuque County, and the DRA.
Visit here to learn more.
Joseph Lewis
For Joseph Lewis, it wasn’t just about getting a CDL—it was about building a better life. After completing Opportunity Dubuque’s truck driving program, and with the guidance of NICC career coach Marcus Ingles, he landed a great local driving job with Prairie Farms. He’s getting paid well, making a difference, and—most importantly—he’s home every night to tuck in his kids.
A proactive initiative focused on the recruitment and skill development of our workforce, ensuring positive outcomes for workers and businesses alike.
It is a true regional partnership, with dozens of nonprofits, educators, workforce experts, and communities working together.
Dubuque Works has two main goals:
Human Capital: Identify and address recruitment, retention, and relocation needs as defined by Greater Dubuque employers, and build workforce capacity by enhancing training to meet employer demand.
Collaboration and Evaluation: Combine collaborative workforce efforts with quality research to generate evidence-based practices that improve performance and outcomes for local employers.
Read the Dubuque Works Strategic Plan to learn more about Dubuque Works, its goals, and its partners.
Dubuque Works is made possible through financial support provided by the City of Dubuque, DRA/Q Casino, and the Dubuque County Board of Supervisors.