Workforce in Iowa

The combination of highly skilled workers, a strong agricultural heritage and an unbeatable work ethic makes Iowa’s workforce second to none for ag and bioscience employers of all sizes. In addition, a commitment to education and supporting businesses with essential resources position the state well to lead the way with a trained workforce for the future.

At 68.1%, Iowa’s labor force participation rate is the 6th highest in the country, and the average Iowa worker stays with an employer for 12 years, or three times the national average.

Growing talent for the future

Iowa has ramped up efforts to build the workforce of the future, starting with STEM education in public schools to educating the next generation of engineers, analysts and scientists at our research-focused universities and providing more apprenticeship programs than any other state.

Iowa Workforce Development

Launched in 2022, the Business Engagement Division of Iowa Workforce Development is a one-stop-shop for employer workforce needs. A team of consultants around the state provide individualized assistance to employers in all stages of the business cycle, providing a critical connection to available programs and resources.

Future Ready Iowa

Future Ready Iowa connects Iowans to the education and training required for good-paying jobs and careers to improve people's lives. The Future Ready Iowa goal is to have 70 percent of Iowans with education and training beyond high school by 2025.

A wide range of programs, from child care grants and registered apprentice funding, to support for CDL programs and last-dollar scholarships, are focused on helping Iowans meet their education goals and meet critical workforce gaps.

Talent Pipeline

Whether it is K-12, community colleges or private and public universities, Iowa’s world-class education system has created a strong talent pipeline for the state’s employers. The Governor’s STEM Advisory Council includes leaders in higher education, business, pre-K through 12 educators and government officials to increase interest and achievements in STEM through partnerships.

Entrepreneur programs at Iowa’s colleges, universities and high schools are providing inspiration and real-world resources to students who will have the next generation of big ideas.

Partnerships and programs across the state provide hands-on experience and professional opportunities for college students. For example, the collaborative research community at Iowa State University Research Park employs more than 500 students in jobs that prepare them for careers across a variety of industries.

The next generation of leaders is being developed through a strong network of youth programs, including more than 18,600 FFA members at more than 250 chapters in Iowa, and more than 23,000 4-H members with a network of clubs in every county.

Job Openings

Looking for a new opportunity in Iowa? Check out openings at companies in Ames, Des Moines and across the state.

IowaWORKS. Iowa’s largest job bank with thousands of openings, managed by Iowa Workforce Development.

Work in Ames MSA. Job board servicing Ames, Boone and Story counties, managed by the Ames Regional Economic Alliance.

DSM USA CareerCenter. Job and intern opportunities in Greater Des Moines area, managed by Greater Des Moines Partnership.

Workforce in Iowa

Growing talent for the future

Iowa Workforce Development

Future Ready Iowa

Talent Pipeline

Job Openings

Partnering and connecting deliver results

A place like no other

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