The Catalyst

Thinking about returning to college for a high-demand tech career? In this episode of The Catalyst, host Amy Lasack sits down with NICC Computer Science Instructor and alumna Maren Larsen ('23). Maren shares how she transitioned from an art and corporate background to a thriving career in computer networking and cybersecurity at Northeast Iowa Community College in Peosta, IA. Learn how transferable skills, hands-on IT labs and comm...

Looking for affordable college classes, local career training, or professional development in Allamakee County? In this episode of The Catalyst, we sit down with Waukon Center Director Erica Nosbisch to explore how Northeast Iowa Community College brings education directly to the Waukon community. Discover local CNA and CDL training opportunities, high school concurrent enrollment options and customized business training solutions ...

Can your education continue long after graduation? In this episode of The Catalyst, we talk with Northeast Iowa Community College (NICC) graduate Amanda Kennedy. Amanda earned her degree in Business Administration from NICC and later returned to participate in the college's Leadership Academy. Today, she uses those skills every day as a Team Leader at Origin Design.  

Tune in as we discuss:

• Real-World Career Growth: How a Bu...

Think you have to move to a major city to find high-paying, high-tech career opportunities? Think again. This week, Jason Passmore joins the podcast to bust the biggest myths surrounding rural economic development. From heavy industry to unique local tourism, Howard County and Cresco are proving that intentional partnerships can create massive community impact. Plus, get an inside look at Cresco’s innovative "Be Your Own Boss...

What makes Delaware County a powerhouse for local innovation and community leadership?

Join us on The Catalyst as we chat with economic development expert Donna Boss about driving regional growth, creating sustainable workforce solutions and launching the brand new Delaware County Leadership Program.

In this episode, we cover:

• The real impact of economic development on small businesses and regional talent.
• How the partnership b...

We spend a massive portion of our lives at work—so why do so many of us treat joy at the office like a luxury? In this episode of The Catalyst, host Amy Lasack sits down with dynamic corporate trainer Paulette Milewski to debunk the myth that productivity and fun don't mix. Paulette shares her philosophy on finding "micro-joys" in your daily routine, shifting your mindset on tough days and building genuine, supportive connect...

Looking for a high-paying career change in the Greater Dubuque area without spending years in school? In this episode of The Catalyst, host Amy Lasack sits down with Jason White, the new President and CEO of the Greater Dubuque Development Corporation (GDDC).

Discover how a powerful local partnership is tearing down traditional barriers to education by offering fast-track career certificates, financial assistance and direct connecti...

What happens when a Fortune 200 executive goes undercover as a job seeker? In this bonus episode of The Catalyst, we sit down with Nora Burns, founder of The Leadership Experts and keynote speaker for the 2026 NICC Business Summit. Nora reveals startling insights from her "Undercover Candidate" project, where she participated in over 350 job interviews to expose the disconnect between the boardroom and the breakroom. Learn what the...

Ready to trade "I’m bored" for "I built a robot"? Join host Amy Lasack on The Catalyst as we dive into the high-energy world of NICC Summer Camps with Krista Walsh-Weitz, Personal Enrichment Program Developer. In this episode, we explore how Northeast Iowa Community College transforms summer break into a launchpad for future careers. From robotics and STEM challenges to creative culinary arts and fashion shows, discover how N...

Get an exclusive preview of one of our most popular events, The Power of 10. We’re joined by two local leaders and upcoming event speakers, Rachelle Howe and Molly Grover, to discuss what it really takes to lead in our community today. Tune in for a sneak peek of the rapid-fire wisdom they’ll be sharing on stage, plus actionable tips you can use to grow your own leadership skills right now.
 
Register Today!<...

Lexi Wallroff traded a typical spring break for a week of service in Colorado. In this episode of The Catalyst, we explore how high-impact experiences at Northeast Iowa Community College shape student leaders and why your next resume-building opportunity might be a thousand miles from home.

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What does it take to launch a successful career in modern manufacturing? In this episode of The Catalyst, host Amy Lasack sits down with Jason Moeller of Mi-T-M and Shannon Westin of Featherlite Trailers to discuss the new Core Manufacturing Skills Career Pathway Certificate at Northeast Iowa Community College.

Discover how local employers are collaborating to bridge the skills gap, why foundational training in safety and quality is...

As you plan your next steps for your education and your career, we’re revisiting this popular conversation with Katie Kime and Lindsey Hass. Originally aired in October 2025, their insights on academic advising remain essential for every student’s success. 

Katie and Lindsey share decades of insights on supporting students—from the nervous high schooler to the busy adult learner—and discuss why advising ...

From the evolution of network security to the rise of the AI Alliance, technology is changing everything about how we learn and work. Join Steve Smith and Jordan O’Connell in this episode of The Catalyst as they discuss modernizing campus infrastructure and why digital literacy is the new competitive edge for students and the modern workforce. We explore how NICC is balancing the rapid opportunities of AI with the essential n...

Leadership isn't about having all the answers. It's about the willingness to meet people exactly where they are. In this episode of The Catalyst, Dr. Erin Shaw and Dr. Emily Logan reflect on the moments that shaped their leadership styles and why empathy is the ultimate bridge for communication gaps. In a landscape often defined by authority and control, Erin and Emily are here to redefine leadership. Tune in for a candid conversat...

Can you maintain a campus leader status while surviving nursing school? On this episode of The Catalyst, we're joined by NICC nursing student Dolan Geerts, who proves that the answer is a resounding yes. Join us as we discuss the reality of student life, the various opportunities to get involved on the NICC Campus and the power of finding your sense of belonging. Discover how programs like Emerging Leaders and living in the College...

Is your company's wellness strategy just a "nice-to-have," or is it deeply embedded in your organizational DNA? In this episode, we sit down with Flannery Cerbin-Bohach, Wellness and Life Stage Program Manager at Northeast Iowa Community College, to explore why a culture of well-being is more critical than ever in today's post-pandemic workforce. We dive into how NICC is revitalizing its culture by prioritizing mental, emotional an...

Is being named Amy a requirement to work at NICC? Host Amy Lasack clears up the rumors in this light-hearted yet high-impact episode. We sit down with Amy Gaffney (Student Services), Amy Green (Business & Community Solutions), and Amy Rausch (Respiratory Care) to explore how their distinct roles—ranging from student support to customized industry training—drive the college forward. Stick around to hear their "depart...

Are you leading your team, or just "toughing it out"? In this episode, we sit down with Molly Knuth, Managing Director at The Restoration Project and host of The Found Podcast, to challenge the traditional myths of resilience and work-life balance. Molly shares her personal evolution from a high school teacher to a rural entrepreneur and strategist, offering a masterclass on why the most important connection a leader can make is th...