Helping Students Graduate with Confidence—and Credentials

Author: Cathy Essick
Work Readiness
Published: Friday, 16 May 2025

Sharing

Image caption: Students participating in Junior Achievement’s Essential Work Skills Credential program develop real-world skills that prepare them for future careers, internships, and life after high school.

Preparing today’s students for success beyond high school is more than a goal—it’s a necessity. Junior Achievement of Eastern Iowa (JAEI) is proud to offer a powerful, state-recognized solution that helps school districts meet Work-Based Learning (WBL) requirements while giving students the skills they need to thrive.

The Junior Achievement (JA) Essential Work Skills Credential is an Industry-Recognized Credential (IRC) backed by the Iowa Department of Education, Iowa Workforce Development, and Junior Achievement USA®. This turnkey program not only supports district Postsecondary Readiness goals but also delivers meaningful experiences and measurable outcomes for students and schools alike.

“We’re excited to now offer this credential in Eastern Iowa,” said Nate Klein, Ed.D., Vice President of Education at Junior Achievement of Eastern Iowa. “Districts are looking for meaningful, easy-to-implement solutions that meet state requirements while preparing students for real-world success. The Essential Work Skills Credential checks every box—it’s practical, powerful, and proven.”

Why Essential Work Skills Matter—and Why Iowa Requires Them

As Iowa’s economy evolves, so do the expectations placed on today’s workforce. Employers consistently report that foundational skills—like communication, problem-solving, teamwork, and adaptability—are just as critical as technical knowledge. In response, the state of Iowa now requires that students demonstrate proficiency in essential work skills as part of high school Work-Based Learning initiatives and Postsecondary Readiness indicators. These benchmarks are designed to ensure that graduates are prepared not just to enter the workforce, but to succeed and grow within it.

By integrating these real-world competencies into education, Iowa schools are helping students graduate with skills that are transferable across industries—and valued by employers across the state.

About the Credential

Through a 10-session curriculum designed for grades 9–12, students participate in simulated work experiences aligned with real-world expectations. They master key competencies such as:

Engaging Communication
Critical & Analytical Thinking
Effective Collaboration
Creativity & Innovation
Cultural Agility
Self-Direction

The program culminates in a capstone assessment. Upon passing, students earn the JA Essential Work Skills Credential, officially recognized by the state of Iowa and applicable toward your district’s Postsecondary Readiness Scorecard.

Easy to Implement, Big on Impact

Whether delivered by a teacher, counselor, or JA-trained volunteer, the program is flexible and easy to run within your school. It’s a low lift for staff, but a high return for students and your district—enhancing student engagement, career preparation, and measurable performance indicators.

A Bridge to Employment, Internships, Apprenticeships, and More

The JA Essential Work Skills Credential isn’t just a certificate—it’s a gateway. Students walk away with the confidence, skills, and validation they need to succeed in the workplace, whether they’re heading straight into employment or continuing along a career pathway.

Want to learn more or bring this program to your district?
Contact Nate Klein, Ed.D. at nklein@jaeasterniowa.org or (319) 862-1100.