Since 2011 the college has been part of Iowa’s sector partnership initiative, which brings together educational institutions, community partners, workforce developers and businesses within the same industry to overcome workforce challenges. Kirkwood belongs to the six partnerships from key industries in Eastern Iowa: advanced manufacturing; architects, construction and engineering (ACE); financial service, insurance and customer service; healthcare; information technology; and transportation and logistics. Representatives from more than 120 businesses participate, focusing on building awareness, career pathway development, government advocacy and training.