The Fort Dodge Community School District is one of 15 districts to share $500,000 from the Iowa Department of Education to focus on industry trades and credentials.

Fort Dodge Schools will receive $50,000 from the state for the Credentials to Careers grant program.

“This grant is a tremendous win for our students and for the Fort Dodge community,” said Josh Porter, superintendent of the Fort Dodge Community School District.

“It will be instrumental in helping students gain valuable skills and credentials that directly translate to local job opportunities,” he added. “This success is also a testament to the incredible work of our dedicated staff, who have tirelessly worked over the past year to expand the number of industry-recognized credentials we can offer. Their commitment has been key in bridging the gap between education and the workforce, ensuring our students are not only prepared for their careers, but can also contribute to the growth and vitality of our community.”

The state education program allows students to pursue education and work-related credentials in a variety of fields including welding, food service, conservation management, Commercials Driver’s License, livestock management and science, OSHA, and agriculture,

The Credentials to Careers grant program, started in 2024, and has invested more than $3.5 million to support Iowa students in earning industry credentials across the state.

“By expanding opportunities to attain an industry-recognized credential in high school, the department’s Credentials to Careers grant helps connect the classroom to the workplace,” said Iowa Department of Education Director McKenzie Snow. “Students earning portable, stackable credentials will be ready to succeed in in-demand, high-wage and public-good careers across our state.”

Grant funding for the Credentials to Careers program includes costs for student exam fees, instructional equipment, computer equipment and software, internet connections, installation costs, teacher training expenses, and curriculum enhancements.

Thirty-six schools statewide have received funding for industry credential opportunities since the program started in 2024.