Western Iowa Tech Community College (WITCC) will host a ribbon-cutting and open house on Monday, September 8, to celebrate the grand opening of its new Denison Regional Career Academy. The public is invited to attend the event, which begins at 3:00 p.m. at 11 N. 35th Street, Denison, Iowa.
The grand opening marks the official launch of the new facility, designed to bring high-quality career and technical education (CTE) to high school students across western Iowa. The academy is a partnership between WITCC and five area school districts: Denison, Boyer Valley, Maple Valley Anthon Oto-Charter Oak Ute (MVAOCOU), Odebolt Arthur-Battle Creek Ida Grove (OABCIG), and Woodbine.
The celebration will include guided tours, a ribbon cutting with the Denison Chamber of Commerce at 3:30 p.m., and brief remarks from community leaders, educators, and students. A WITCC board meeting will follow at 4:00 p.m.
"This new facility gives students in our rural communities greater access to hands-on learning, college credit, and clear pathways into high-demand careers," said Sandy Velasquez, Director of the Denison Campus and Southern Service Area. "It also supports the workforce needs of our community by preparing students with the skills employers are looking for."
The facility will offer hands-on training in four pathways: Agriculture, Business, Auto Technology, and Education. Each program includes industry-recognized credentials or college credit, preparing students for gainful employment or continued education.
Funded in part by a $2 million Career Academy Incentive Fund grant from the Iowa Department of Education and Governor Kim Reynolds, the Denison Regional Career Academy expands access to workforce training in areas identified as critical to Iowa’s economic future.
WITCC is proud to lead this effort to strengthen career pathways and support the success of students across the region.
Event Details: Denison Regional Career Academy Grand Opening
When: Monday, September 8, 2025 | 3:00 - 4:00 p.m.
Where: 11 N 35th St, Denison, IA
Tours Begin: 3:00 p.m.
Ribbon Cutting: 3:30 p.m.
Board Meeting: 4:00 p.m.