PRESS RELEASE: IOWA LAKES COMMUNITY COLLEGE HIGHLIGHTS CDL & ESL PROGRAM IMPACT AT MARCH BOARD MEETING
Estherville, Iowa – Iowa Lakes Community College featured the impact of its Continuing and Professional Education programs during the March Board of Trustees meeting, emphasizing strong workforce outcomes and continued program growth.
Vice President of Academic Affairs Kyle Norris introduced the college’s Continuing and Professional Education division, emphasizing its role in supporting regional workforce needs. “Continuing and Professional Education plays a critical role in how we respond to workforce needs across our region.”
Melissa Haukap serves as Director of Continuing and Professional Education at Iowa Lakes Community College. A graduate of Iowa Lakes and Minnesota State University Mankato, she brings experience in leadership and community engagement and is completing her Master of Business Administration at Drake University this spring.
As part of the update, the college highlighted continued success in its Commercial Driver’s License (CDL) program. The program has reached 243 total completers, exceeded initial goals and demonstrated sustained growth. In its first year, the program surpassed its goal with 114 completers.
In year two, the program has already reached 129 completers year-to-date and remains on track for continued growth, with additional students actively progressing through training.
The Board also recognized student success stories that reflect the impact of these programs. CDL program completer Joseph Rickfels was introduced, along with English as a Second Language (ESL) program participant Emily Carpenter, now an Iowa Lakes nursing student.
“The classes at Iowa Lakes were so important to me, and I’m so thankful for the pathway I’ve been able to take to reach my goals and support my family,” Carpenter shared.
ESL offerings continue to expand across the region, with classes available in Algona, Emmetsburg, Estherville, and Spencer, providing accessible learning opportunities for individuals at a variety of skill levels.
Through these programs, Iowa Lakes continues to support students, strengthen the regional workforce, and provide pathways to both career advancement and further education.
The next monthly Board meeting will be on Tuesday, April 21, 2026, at 4:30 P.M. on the Emmetsburg Campus, 3200 College Dr, Emmetsburg, Iowa 50536. The Work Session will begin at 4:00 P.M.