National Skilled Trades Day took place last week d there are few places where it was celebrated more than the Iowa Valley Community College District. You no doubt have heard many times about the critical need for skilled tradespeople. MaryAnne Nickle, Dean at Iowa Valley Grinnell says advancements in technology and skills continue to prove you don’t need a four-year degree to have a successful profession.

The latest term in trades is Industry 4.0, which refers to the use of smart technology into the manufacturing process. Iowa Valley’s support for education of trade skills has also been a benefit to employers around the state and beyond.