Trades & Manufacturing

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Trades & Manufacturing

Explore new horizons in your career with Iowa Western’s Continuing Education classes in Trades & Manufacturing.

Some of the classes at Iowa Western Continuing Education include:

E2E Assistance Education 2 Employment Tuition Assistance

Are you an Iowa resident? You may qualify for FREE tuition for one of the four programs listed below!
Education 2 Employment provides FREE tuition assistance to residents of Iowa to grow their career skills and further their education.

Available Courses

   01/06/25 - Council Bluffs Campus

ONLINE ONLY
Individuals who wish to add a Hazardous Materials Endorsement (H) onto their current CDL license will need to complete this course before you are permitted to take their knowledge test for hazardous materials. Upon completion of this course the results will be submitted to the FMCSA Training Provider Registry.
This course is 100% online and can be taken any place, anytime.
* After registration, you will receive an email with your payment receipt, that email will include directions on accessing your course.
**Additional requirements to an H endorsement (background check, fingerprinting, etc.) are not provided by IWCC**
 

Start Date: 01/06/25
End Date: 06/30/25
Seats Available: 10
Cost: $100
Location: Council Bluffs Campus
   01/27/25 - Council Bluffs Campus

Mon/Wed 5pm - 7pm
Anyone interested in learning how to fly and utilize drones safely and effectively for their work and personal uses.
1. Familiarize and discuss an UAS unit, its software and how to navigate and properly maintain their systems.
2. Analyze information and determine best uses and safety practices regarding UAS flight operations.
3. Conduct flight training to improve maneuvering, target recognition, data collection, best positioning and pilot/UAS capabilities.

Start Date: 01/27/25
End Date: 02/05/25
Seats Available: 5
Cost: $399
Location: Council Bluffs Campus
   01/27/25 - Council Bluffs Campus

Mon/Wed 6:00p - 9:00p

Students will perform welds utilizing a combination of GMAW/MIG & SMAW (STICK welding) on multiple projects in the flat, horizontal, vertical, and overhead positions. As the class progresses students will be introduced to several different electrodes as well as electrode sizes. With new electrodes/sizes students will gain the knowledge of how to adjust settings for each as well as for what position. Students will have the opportunity to attempt AWS certifications at the end of this course.  Students will be briefly introduced to FCAW during this course. 
Iowa Western Community College 2120 23rd Ave Council Bluffs, IA 51503

Start Date: 01/27/25
End Date: 04/30/25
Seats Available: 2
Cost: $2500
Location: Council Bluffs Campus
   01/31/25 - Council Bluffs Campus

Friday 3 - 9pm & Saturday 9am - 3pm
Anyone interested in learning how to fly and utilize drones safely and effectively for their work and personal uses.
1. Familiarize and discuss an UAS unit, its software and how to navigate and properly maintain their systems.
2. Analyze information and determine best uses and safety practices regarding UAS flight operations.
3. Conduct flight training to improve maneuvering, target recognition, data collection, best positioning and pilot/UAS capabilities.

Start Date: 01/31/25
End Date: 02/01/25
Seats Available: 4
Cost: $399
Location: Council Bluffs Campus
   02/03/25 - Council Bluffs Campus

Mon/Wed 10am- 12pm
Anyone interested in learning how to fly and utilize drones safely and effectively for their work and personal uses.
1. Familiarize and discuss an UAS unit, its software and how to navigate and properly maintain their systems.
2. Analyze information and determine best uses and safety practices regarding UAS flight operations.
3. Conduct flight training to improve maneuvering, target recognition, data collection, best positioning and pilot/UAS
capabilities. 

Start Date: 02/03/25
End Date: 02/12/25
Seats Available: 5
Cost: $399
Location: Council Bluffs Campus

Fridays  530p - 8p 23rd Ave Business Center
This fun hands-on IWCC Continuing Education course, led by Welding Instructor, Shay Bertgantzel, offers a comprehensive approach to creating your own metal art. The course will cover MIG and STICK welding, metalworking, and fabrication techniques under Shay’s guidance, with an emphasis on safety, material prep and material selection.  MIG Welding is sometimes described as the “hot glue gun” of steel. Our staff has assembled an inspirational scrap pile of shapes and sizes of steel, or bring some of your own, to create creatures, critters and anything you can imagine.

Start Date: 02/07/25
End Date: 03/07/25
Seats Available: 9
Cost: $219
Location: Council Bluffs
   02/07/25 - Council Bluffs Campus

Friday 3pm - 9pm & Saturday 9am - 3pm
The key focus in the Advanced Pilot 2 Training covers a wide range of topics and skills, depending on pilots’ area of specialization. Pilots will learn advanced flight maneuvers such as hovering, obstacle avoidance, and aerobatics. These skills are essential for capturing cinematic shots, conducting inspections, and navigating complex environments. Equipment maintenance will also be included in this course. 

Start Date: 02/07/25
End Date: 02/08/25
Seats Available: 4
Cost: $399
Location: Council Bluffs Campus

The class will be on Saturday, February 8, 2025, from 9:00 AM - 1 PM at the Council Bluffs Campus. Register for this 3D printing class to create a unique Valentine’s gift or decoration. Perfect for beginners and DIY enthusiasts, you'll learn the basics of 3D printing, including machines, materials, and techniques, while using beginner-friendly design software. Whether you’re considering purchasing a 3D printer or just exploring the craft, this class offers a fun and informative introduction. Work with an experienced instructor to bring your Valentine’s-inspired designs to life. This class makes a great date night or Valentine’s gift! Celebrate Valentine’s Day by designing heartfelt creations, built layer by layer through 3D printing. 

Start Date: 02/08/25
End Date: 02/08/25
Seats Available: 20
Cost: $79
Location: Council Bluffs Campus

Saturdays 12pm - 2:30pm 23rd Ave Business Center
This fun hands-on IWCC Continuing Education course, led by Welding Instructor, Shay Bertgantzel, offers a comprehensive approach to creating your own metal art. The course will cover MIG and STICK welding, metalworking, and fabrication techniques under Shay’s guidance, with an emphasis on safety, material prep and material selection.  MIG Welding is sometimes described as the “hot glue gun” of steel. Our staff has assembled an inspirational scrap pile of shapes and sizes of steel, or bring some of your own, to create creatures, critters and anything you can imagine.

Start Date: 02/08/25
End Date: 03/08/25
Seats Available: 10
Cost: $219
Location: Council Bluffs
   02/17/25 - Council Bluffs Campus

Mon/Wed 10am-12pm
The key focus in the Advanced Pilot 2 Training covers a wide range of topics and skills, depending on pilots’ area of specialization. Pilots will learn advanced flight maneuvers such as hovering, obstacle avoidance, and aerobatics. These skills are essential for capturing cinematic shots, conducting inspections, and navigating complex environments. Equipment maintenance will also be included in this course. 

Start Date: 02/17/25
End Date: 03/05/25
Seats Available: 5
Cost: $399
Location: Council Bluffs Campus
   02/17/25 - Council Bluffs Campus

Mon/Wed 5pm - 7pm
The key focus in the Advanced Pilot 2 Training covers a wide range of topics and skills, depending on pilots’ area of specialization. Pilots will learn advanced flight maneuvers such as hovering, obstacle avoidance, and aerobatics. These skills are essential for capturing cinematic shots, conducting inspections, and navigating complex environments. Equipment maintenance will also be included in this course. 

Start Date: 02/17/25
End Date: 03/05/25
Seats Available: 5
Cost: $399
Location: Council Bluffs Campus
   02/18/25 - Council Bluffs Campus

The class will be on Tuesday, February 18, 2025, & Tuesday, February 25, 2025, 7:00-9:00 PM at the  Council Bluffs Campus. 
Transform your gardening experience with custom-made 3D-printed solutions! This hands-on class will teach you to design and print essential components for a thriving garden. Whether a beginner or a seasoned gardener, this course empowers you to create practical and innovative tools tailored to your garden’s unique needs. Introduction to 3D Printing: understand the basics of 3D printers, materials, and software. This course is perfect for gardening enthusiasts, makers, and anyone curious about merging technology with sustainable practices. No prior 3D printing or gardening experience is necessary—bring your curiosity and creativity. This course introduces 3D printing technology to gardening enthusiasts, making it easy to kick-start your garden plans with the power of innovative 3D tools!

Start Date: 02/18/25
End Date: 02/25/25
Seats Available: 20
Cost: $79
Location: Council Bluffs Campus
   02/22/25 - Council Bluffs Campus

The class will be on Saturday, February 22, 2025 9:00 AM - 1:00 PM at the  Council Bluffs Campus. 
Transform your gardening experience with custom-made 3D-printed solutions! This hands-on class will teach you to design and print essential components for a thriving garden. Whether a beginner or a seasoned gardener, this course empowers you to create practical and innovative tools tailored to your garden’s unique needs. Introduction to 3D Printing: understand the basics of 3D printers, materials, and software. This course is perfect for gardening enthusiasts, makers, and anyone curious about merging technology with sustainable practices. No prior 3D printing or gardening experience is necessary—bring your curiosity and creativity. This course introduces 3D printing technology to gardening enthusiasts, making it easy to kick-start your garden plans with the power of innovative 3D tools!

Start Date: 02/22/25
End Date: 02/22/25
Seats Available: 20
Cost: $79
Location: Council Bluffs Campus
   03/03/25 - Council Bluffs Campus

Class is from 5:00pm-8:00pm, Monday - Thursday, March 3, 2025 - March 6, 2025.
This course is for diesel and auto technicians to prepare for the 609 Certification Exam. This allows industry professionals to understand and stay compliant with EPA guidelines in handling and disposing of refrigerants. The cost of the Test is an extra $20 the day of the Test. The program will only accept Credit/Debit cards with the students name on the card for verification.

Dodge Hall

Start Date: 03/03/25
End Date: 03/06/25
Seats Available: 15
Cost: $150
Location: Council Bluffs Campus
   03/12/25 - Clarinda Campus

Class is from 12:00 pm - 4:00 pm, Wednesday, March 12, 2025, at the Clarinda Campus Center - Depot Training Room. 

Level up your operational productivity by learning the cheat code for waste reduction and gain a foundational understanding of LEAN principles in this introductory course. Explore essential LEAN concepts, learn to identify waste within processes, and discover strategies to foster a culture of efficiency and continuous improvement. This overview equips attendees with practical tools to drive organizational effectiveness and build a more engaged workforce. This course is a prerequisite to advancing onto the LEAN 101, 5S, Train the Trainer, Setup Reduction, Process Mapping, and Value Stream Series. Clarinda

Start Date: 03/12/25
End Date: 03/12/25
Seats Available: 20
Cost: $150
Location: Clarinda Campus
   03/13/25 - Council Bluffs

Class is from 12:00 pm to 4:00 pm, Thursday, March 13, 2025, at the Council Bluffs Chamber of Commerce Board Room. 

Level up your operational productivity by learning the cheat code for waste reduction and gain a foundational understanding of LEAN principles in this introductory course. Explore essential LEAN concepts, learn to identify waste within processes and discover strategies to foster a culture of efficiency and continuous improvement. This overview equips attendees with practical tools to drive organizational effectiveness and build a more engaged workforce. This course is a prerequisite to advancing onto the LEAN 101, 5S, Train the Trainer, Setup Reduction, Process Mapping, and Value Stream Series.

Council Bluffs Chamber of Commerce, 149 W Broadway, Council Bluffs, IA 51503

Start Date: 03/13/25
End Date: 03/13/25
Seats Available: 20
Cost: $150
Location: Council Bluffs
   03/14/25 - Council Bluffs Campus

This two-day class will be on Friday, March 14, 2025, 2-6 PM & Saturday, March 15, 2025, 9 AM - 4 PM at Council Bluffs Campus, Looft Hall Building. OSHA 10-hour General Industry Certificate Course. Every employer is required to meet minimum federal workplace safety standards. Participants in this course will gain the knowledge, skills, and tools necessary to meet OSHA's requirements. This course addresses general industry safety topics, enabling participants to identify, abate, avoid, and prevent job-related hazards. Who would benefit from enrolling in this course: Entry-level workers, safety personnel, instructors, managers, supervisors, and those responsible for OSHA compliance in an industrial setting.  All participants will receive an OSHA 10-Hour Card and completion certificate upon completing the course. 

Start Date: 03/14/25
End Date: 03/15/25
Seats Available: 20
Cost: $149
Location: Council Bluffs Campus
   03/15/25 - Council Bluffs Campus

March 15th, 2025  from 1:00pm-5:00pm 
In this course you will learn what an A2L refrigerant is, the laws and dates of A2L refrigerant, how to handle, storage, installation of the systems including mitigation, to service, and tools you'll need to use when operating on an A2L refrigerant. 
You will obtain 4 CEU's. 

Start Date: 03/15/25
End Date: 03/15/25
Seats Available: 20
Cost: $40
Location: Council Bluffs Campus
   03/24/25 - Council Bluffs Campus

Introductory course that provides a basic electricity background covering 3-phase power distribution and circuits related to the operations of motors, generators, and transformers in an industrial setting Students also examine Ohm's Law and how it is applied to series, parallel and series-parallel circuits using resistors, capacitors and inductors. Three hours of this class will be dedicated to developing soft skills.

South 23rd Ave 

Start Date: 03/24/25
End Date: 06/16/25
Seats Available: 12
Cost: $510
Location: Council Bluffs Campus

Introduction to non-contact sensors used in industrial automation. Inductive and capacitive proximity sensors. Different types and uses for Photoelectric eyes, and other analog devices used in industrial machine control. Three hours of this class will be dedicated to developing soft skills.

Start Date: 03/25/25
End Date: 06/03/25
Seats Available: 3
Cost: $440
Location: Harlan
   03/25/25 - Council Bluffs Campus

This class will be held on Tuesdays from 5:00 to 8:00 PM at Kinney Hall

This class describes the general process of using computers to design and manufacture parts and identifies common features available in CAD/CAM software. 

Start Date: 03/25/25
End Date: 06/03/25
Seats Available: 12
Cost: $510
Location: Council Bluffs Campus
   03/26/25 - Council Bluffs Campus

Designed to give students an overview of the terminology, theory of operation, and specific devices involved in the movement of energy. Examine belts, chains, gears, shafts, hydraulics, and pneumatics. Three hours of this class will be dedicated to developing soft skills. South 23rd Ave 

 

Start Date: 03/26/25
End Date: 06/19/25
Seats Available: 12
Cost: $510
Location: Council Bluffs Campus
   03/27/25 - Council Bluffs Campus

This class will be held on Thursdays 5:00 to 8:00 PM at Kinney Hall 

This course will provide the student with an opportunity to study all steps in the numerical control system. This includes the advantages and disadvantages, terms and definitions, point and continuous path programming and become familiar with M and G codes. Introduces the programming, setup, and operation of CNC. 

Start Date: 03/27/25
End Date: 06/05/25
Seats Available: 12
Cost: $510
Location: Council Bluffs Campus

Prepare potential engineering technology students for the mathematics required for success in the field of electronics. Calculator-based mathematics, covers numbering systems, roots, powers, fractions, decimals, percent's, linear equations, factoring, graphing, simultaneous equations, complex numbers, trigonometry, trigonometric identities, logarithms, and Boolean Algebra. All mathematical topics are covered using electronic applications. Three hours of this class will be dedicated to developing soft skills

Start Date: 03/27/25
End Date: 06/05/25
Seats Available: 3
Cost: $440
Location: Harlan
   04/17/25 - Council Bluffs Campus

Class is from 12:00 pm - 4:00 pm, Thursday, April 17, 2025, at Council Bluffs Campus, Kinney Hall, Room 044.

Level up your operational productivity by learning the cheat code for waste reduction and gain a foundational understanding of LEAN principles in this introductory course. Explore essential LEAN concepts, learn to identify waste within processes, and discover strategies to foster a culture of efficiency and continuous improvement. This overview equips attendees with practical tools to drive organizational effectiveness and build a more engaged workforce. This course is a prerequisite to advancing onto the LEAN 101, 5S, Train the Trainer, Setup Reduction, Process Mapping, and Value Stream Series.

 

Start Date: 04/17/25
End Date: 04/17/25
Seats Available: 20
Cost: $150
Location: Council Bluffs Campus
   04/22/25 - Council Bluffs Campus

The class will be on Tuesday, April 22, 2025, & Tuesday, April 29, 2025, from 7:00-9:00 PM at the Council Bluffs Campus. 
Discover how 3D printing can simplify everyday problem-solving in this hands-on course! Guided by an experienced instructor, you’ll learn to design, customize, and print small replacement parts and repair components for household items.
Perfect for beginners, this introductory class is ideal whether you’re considering a 3D printer for personal use or your business. No prior experience is required—just bring your curiosity! By the end of the course, you’ll gain practical skills to create your own solutions, save money, and reduce waste in a fun and engaging way.       

Start Date: 04/22/25
End Date: 04/29/25
Seats Available: 20
Cost: $79
Location: Council Bluffs Campus
   04/23/25 - Harlan

Class is from 12:00 pm - 4:00 pm, Wednesday, April 23, 2025, at the Harlan Shelby County Center - Room 114. 

Level up your operational productivity by learning the cheat code for waste reduction and gain a foundational understanding of LEAN principles in this introductory course. Explore essential LEAN concepts, learn to identify waste within processes, and discover strategies to foster a culture of efficiency and continuous improvement. This overview equips attendees with practical tools to drive organizational effectiveness and build a more engaged workforce. This course is a prerequisite to advancing onto the LEAN 101, 5S, Train the Trainer, Setup Reduction, Process Mapping, and Value Stream Series. 

Start Date: 04/23/25
End Date: 04/23/25
Seats Available: 20
Cost: $150
Location: Harlan

This two-day class will be on Thursday, April 24, 2025, 2-6 PM & Friday, April 25, 2025, 9 AM - 4 PM at Clarinda Campus, Depot Training Room. OSHA 10-hour General Industry Certificate Course. Every employer is required to meet minimum federal workplace safety standards. Participants in this course will gain the knowledge, skills, and tools necessary to meet OSHA's requirements. This course addresses general industry safety topics, enabling participants to identify, abate, avoid, and prevent job-related hazards. Who would benefit from enrolling in this course: Entry-level workers, safety personnel, instructors, managers, supervisors, and those responsible for OSHA compliance in an industrial setting.  All participants will receive an OSHA 10-Hour Card and completion certificate upon completing the course. 

Start Date: 04/24/25
End Date: 04/25/25
Seats Available: 20
Cost: $149
Location: Clarinda Campus

The class will be on Saturday, April 26, 2025, 9:00AM-1:00PM at the Atlantic Campus-Cass County Center. 
Discover how 3D printing can simplify everyday problem-solving in this hands-on course! Guided by an experienced instructor, you’ll learn to design, customize, and print small replacement parts and repair components for household items.
Perfect for beginners, this introductory class is ideal whether you’re considering a 3D printer for personal use or your business. No prior experience is required—just bring your curiosity! By the end of the course, you’ll gain practical skills to create your own solutions, save money, and reduce waste in a fun and engaging way. 

Start Date: 04/26/25
End Date: 04/26/25
Seats Available: 20
Cost: $79
Location: Atlantic

 This 4-Day Class will be held Monday through Thursday, May 5-8, 2025, 8:00 AM - 4:30 PM at the Council Bluffs Campus Looft Hall Building.                             Discover the Essential Principles of Occupational Safety & Health (POSH) and gain the skills to identify, assess, and control workplace hazards, ensuring a safer and healthier environment for all. From mastering safety management systems to emergency preparedness and ethical responsibilities, this course equips you with practical tools and insights to excel in POSH and protect workers' well-being.                                                                                           

Start Date: 05/05/25
End Date: 05/08/25
Seats Available: 10
Cost: $1400
Location: Council Bluffs Campus
   05/12/25 - Council Bluffs Campus

Mon - Fri  8am - 12pm
This hands-on course is designed to empower individuals with the essential skills and knowledge required to perform basic automotive maintenance tasks. These skills consist of oil and filter changes, tire rotations and multi-point vehicle inspections.  Participants will gain confidence in maintaining vehicles. The course covers fundamental principles, safety measures, and practical techniques to ensure participants can carry out routine maintenance effectively. Participants will receive an IWCC Express Auto Repair Tech Certificate with the completion of this course. 

Start Date: 05/12/25
End Date: 05/23/25
Seats Available: 20
Cost: $799
Location: Council Bluffs Campus
   08/22/25 - Council Bluffs Campus

This two-day class will be on Friday, August 22, 2025, 2-6 PM & Saturday, August 23, 2025, 9 AM - 4 PM at Council Bluffs Campus, Looft Hall Building. OSHA 10-hour General Industry Certificate Course. Every employer is required to meet minimum federal workplace safety standards. Participants in this course will gain the knowledge, skills, and tools necessary to meet OSHA's requirements. This course addresses general industry safety topics, enabling participants to identify, abate, avoid, and prevent job-related hazards. Who would benefit from enrolling in this course: Entry-level workers, safety personnel, instructors, managers, supervisors, and those responsible for OSHA compliance in an industrial setting.  All participants will receive an OSHA 10-Hour Card and completion certificate upon completing the course. 

Start Date: 08/22/25
End Date: 08/23/25
Seats Available: 20
Cost: $149
Location: Council Bluffs Campus

This two-day class will be on Friday, September 19, 2025, 2-6 PM & Saturday, September 20, 2025, 9 AM - 4 PM at Atlantic Cass County Center. OSHA 10-hour General Industry Certificate Course. Every employer is required to meet minimum federal workplace safety standards. Participants in this course will gain the knowledge, skills, and tools necessary to meet OSHA's requirements. This course addresses general industry safety topics, enabling participants to identify, abate, avoid, and prevent job-related hazards. Who would benefit from enrolling in this course: Entry-level workers, safety personnel, instructors, managers, supervisors, and those responsible for OSHA compliance in an industrial setting.  All participants will receive an OSHA 10-Hour Card and completion certificate upon completing the course. 

Start Date: 09/19/25
End Date: 09/20/25
Seats Available: 20
Cost: $149
Location: Atlantic
   11/14/25 - Council Bluffs Campus

This two-day class will be on Friday, November 14, 2025, 2-6 PM & Saturday, November 15, 2025, 9 AM - 4 PM at Council Bluffs Campus, Looft Hall Building. OSHA 10-hour General Industry Certificate Course. Every employer is required to meet minimum federal workplace safety standards. Participants in this course will gain the knowledge, skills, and tools necessary to meet OSHA's requirements. This course addresses general industry safety topics, enabling participants to identify, abate, avoid, and prevent job-related hazards. Who would benefit from enrolling in this course: Entry-level workers, safety personnel, instructors, managers, supervisors, and those responsible for OSHA compliance in an industrial setting.  All participants will receive an OSHA 10-Hour Card and completion certificate upon completing the course. 

Start Date: 11/14/25
End Date: 11/15/25
Seats Available: 20
Cost: $149
Location: Council Bluffs Campus


Refunds: You may cancel your registration 5 business days prior to the start of the class date and receive a 100% refund excluding the $50 non-refundable processing fee. If contacting outside Iowa Western Community College’s Continuing Education Department business hours, leave a voicemail and or send the department an email. Iowa Western’s Continuing Education is not responsible for refunds if contact is not pursued via voicemail and or email. In compliance with the IWCC policy, refunds will only be produced in the form of a check.  A check will be issued within 14 business days after the refund is admitted to the customer. Refund will be sent to the customer’s address that is on file. Certain program restrictions may apply. Contact Continuing Education for more details at ce@iwcc.edu.

Cancellations: Iowa Western reserves the right to cancel any class where difficulties arise in staffing or scheduling or where a minimum enrollment is not achieved.  A full refund will be issued for all canceled classes.

Transfers/Withdrawals: Transfers may be subject to $25.00 transfer fee.  Non-attendance for a class does not constitute a withdrawal and refunds are not issued for non-attendance.  Transfers may be made up to two full business days (unless otherwise noted in the class information) prior to the start date of the class.  After that time, transfers will not be permitted and no refund will be issued.