Latest news with #JimObradovich
Yahoo
4 days ago
- Business
- Yahoo
North Iowa Area Community College launches aviation degree program
North Iowa Area Community College will offer a new degree program in the fall for students to earn aviation certifications. (Photo by Jim Obradovich for Iowa Capital Dispatch) North Iowa Area Community College will offer students a path to an aviation career with a new professional pilot degree program starting this fall. The Mason City-based community college announced in a news release the launch of the Aviation Professional Pilot Associate of Applied Science Degree in its Skilled Trades Division. According to the release, the five-semester program will combine classroom instruction with practical training at the Mason City Airport. 'This program is an incredible opportunity for students passionate about aviation to turn their dreams into reality,' said Laura Wood, dean of agriculture and skilled trades, in the release. 'By offering both theoretical knowledge and practical skills, we're setting our graduates up for success in one of the most exciting and rewarding industries out there.' SUBSCRIBE: GET THE MORNING HEADLINES DELIVERED TO YOUR INBOX NIACC joins other community colleges in providing aviation training to students, including Indian Hills Community College, Iowa Lakes Community College and Iowa Western Community College, each of which received federal funding for their programs last year. Coe College in Cedar Rapids also announced the opening of a new flight school in May 2024. North Iowa Air Service has partnered with the community college to provide education and training to enrolled students, according to the release. Students will receive both lab and flight training through the program, which will, alongside classroom instruction, teach students about aerodynamics, navigation, aviation safety and operations. By the time students graduate from the program, the release stated, they will have the skills and knowledge for careers in flight instruction, piloting and more. 'North Iowa Air Service is thrilled to partner with NIACC for the Aviation Professional Associate of Applied Science degree,' said Todd Kyle, owner and president of North Iowa Air Service, in the release. 'My grandfather began this business in 1957 teaching people how to fly in North Iowa. We are thrilled to continue and expand that tradition with NIACC. We look forward to working with them to grow and expand this program for years to come.' SUPPORT: YOU MAKE OUR WORK POSSIBLE
Yahoo
04-02-2025
- Politics
- Yahoo
Tips from a former Iowa senator on how influence legislation
Blind Iowans, right, attend an Iowa Senate subcommittee on Gov. Kim Reynolds' government reorganization bill, which would absorb the Department for the Blind into another agency. (Photo by Jim Obradovich for Iowa Capital Dispatch) Effective advocacy requires understanding the legislative process and employing strategic communication. Iowans can impact legislation by providing their perspective on a bill and explaining the reasoning for their position. Understanding a legislator's background can lead to more effectively tailored communication, increasing the likelihood of successful messaging. For example, my constituents knew I was a wrestling coach and enjoyed other sports, and we built rapport over those. Personal meetings are the most effective way to build relationships with legislators. However, it's important to schedule an appointment in advance rather than simply showing up at the Capitol — scheduling a meeting prior to a visit can ensure a legislator has time to meet and is prepared to discuss a specific legislative issue. Here's how to contact your legislator The Iowa Legislature's website includes a tool to find your local lawmakers using your home address, as well as contact information for all state senators and representatives. An important note: Fridays can be opportune for meeting with legislators in their districts, as they often return home on Thursday afternoons. If traveling to the Capitol is difficult, consider inviting a legislator to meet at a cafe or coffee shop in your district that is convenient to your legislator. Communicating directly with a legislator through personalized, handwritten letters can be a highly effective approach to sharing your perspective. A particularly memorable communication I received during my time as a senator was a unique and creative expression of support: A singing card with a short note encouraging support for a bill. This unexpected and heartfelt gesture from a constituent underscored the power of personal advocacy. Remember to follow up to thank your legislator for their support or to encourage them to reconsider their position. In Iowa, effective communication with policymakers is crucial for a healthy democracy. Every citizen's voice matters — it shapes the policies affecting our communities and ensures our concerns are heard. This column is courtesy of the Center for Rural Affairs, a private, nonprofit organization working to strengthen small businesses, family farms and ranches, and rural communities through action oriented programs addressing social, economic, and environmental issues.
