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Achieve More Together!
One-Stop Job Centers
Recently, an adult job seeker turned to IowaWORKS in Des Moines for career planning and employment support as his previous role was ending. With resume assistance, mock interviews, and career counseling, he gained the confidence and tools needed to succeed. Because of these no-cost resources, he gained the confidence and tools needed to succeed, which ultimately led him to an exciting new full-time position in the finance industry.
This employment success highlights the power of workforce collaboration in connecting individuals with meaningful career opportunities. Employers—looking for skilled, job-ready candidates? Connect with the Iowa Workforce Development Business Engagement Team today to find the right talent for your workforce needs!
Suma's Success After Tyson Layoffs
In the wake of the unprecedented 2024 layoffs at Tyson and Smithfield, the Central Iowa Local Workforce Area faced significant challenges. These closures left many non-English speakers needing assistance, both with unemployment claims and securing new employment. The Des Moines American Job Center (AJC) rose to the occasion, offering dedicated, one-on-one assistance—often with the support of interpreters—on a daily basis. In June and July 2024, the AJC served upwards of 200 customers daily.
One such customer, Suma, made a special trip to the office in February to share his success story with Career Planner, Angie. After attending 25 meetings with Career Planners over the past four months, Suma secured a position at Smithfield in Des Moines, earning $20 per hour. Remarkably, he was previously laid off from the Smithfield plant in Altoona. Now, he is thrilled to return to work in a similar occupation. Suma’s positive attitude helped with his success. He also took the initiative to contact employers he applied to and demonstrated openness to new opportunities.
Suma’s story and the DSM AJC Career Planners’ efforts highlight how perseverance, consistency, and hard work can overcome language barriers. IowaWORKS staff go above and beyond, collaborating with translators and dedicating significant time to assist individuals facing such challenges. Their efforts, and the determination of individuals like Suma, do not go unnoticed.
From Setback to Success: Journey to Becoming a Childcare Director
In August 2024, Menna encountered an unexpected setback when she lost her job at a daycare facility. Despite this challenge, she remained focused on her long-term goal of becoming a Childcare Director. Having recently earned her Child Development Associate (CDA) certificate, Mena was determined to turn her situation into an opportunity for growth.
While receiving unemployment benefits, Menna connected with the IowaWORKS office and discovered the extensive services available at the American Job Center (AJC). Eager to enhance her skills and explore new opportunities, she participated in several AJC workshops, including Essential Tools for Job Seekers, Maximizing Your Potential, Create a Great Resume, and Interview 101. She also worked closely with the AJC staff, gaining valuable insights into labor market trends, exploring career paths, and receiving customized job leads.
In December, Menna was referred to the job development program, an initiative designed to provide career-ready individuals with intensive case management and direct connections to employers. With the support and encouragement of the AJC Wagner-Peyser Career Planners, she was referred to a full-time teaching position as a part-time role as a Fine Arts Coordinator. In February, Menna proudly shared with her Career Planner that she had successfully secured both positions! Her hard work, perseverance, and the comprehensive support she received from AJC services are a testament to the effectiveness of their programming.
Navigating unemployment can be daunting and discouraging, but Menna’s determination and commitment helped her overcome these challenges. By taking full advantage of the resources and guidance available to her, she is now thrilled to hold two positions that align with her skills and passions. Reflecting on her journey, Menna expressed: “Thank you so much for all your help and support throughout the process.”
Wired for Success: One Job Seeker’s Path to Becoming an Electrician
In April 2024, a job seeker connected with IowaWORKS through the registered apprenticeship interest form on Workforce.iowa.gov, with the goal of becoming an Electrician through a Registered Apprenticeship program. During their initial collaboration, the IowaWORKS career planner provided resume support, mock interview practice, job search assistance, and general job readiness tips. These efforts led to the job seeker securing a position with a local electrical employer’s pre-apprenticeship program.
In February 2025, the job seeker returned to IowaWORKS after being temporarily laid off while awaiting the start of the employer’s registered apprenticeship program. Motivated to build on his experience and reenter the workforce quickly, he sought further assistance. Together, he and the career planner updated his resume to reflect his newly acquired skills.
Less than a month later, the job seeker excitedly shared that he had been accepted into a Registered Apprenticeship with Baker Electric. He credited his success to the tools and strategies he had learned while working with IowaWORKS.
