Local Triumph: Northeast Iowa Celebrates First Graduates from NICC and RCIS Agricultural Apprenticeship

Northeast Iowa Community College (NICC) and Rural Community Insurance Services (RCIS), a division of Zurich North America, have launched an agriculture apprenticeship program. This program, which combines academic and practical training, has recently celebrated the graduation of its first cohort. Apprentices earn a salary and receive benefits while working towards an Agriculture Business associate’s degree at NICC, with their tuition fully funded by RCIS.

The two-year program allows apprentices to split their time between NICC coursework and practical training at RCIS. The flexible program, offering online courses, attracts students nationwide, including from states like California, Washington, and North Dakota. The first cohort saw nine of thirteen apprentices graduate on May 9 in northeast Iowa. These graduates received both an associate’s degree and a U.S. Department of Labor Certificate of Apprenticeship, qualifying them for advanced roles at RCIS.

The program is noted for its blend of education and hands-on experience. Graduates, including Devin Burlage and Adam Prybylinski, have praised the program for its educational and career benefits. Burlage noted its appeal to both young and adult learners, while Prybylinski appreciated the integration of theory and practice.

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