Since 1892, Henkel Construction has been building in North Iowa, providing professional construction services across healthcare, commercial, education, institutional, residential, and other markets. Throughout its history, the company has remained focused on delivering quality, precision, and excellence for its clients. An important part of accomplishing that goal is investing in the people behind the work. By developing its workforce, Henkel Construction helps employees build new skills while preparing its team to meet the evolving needs of the construction industry.
That commitment to employee development led to a partnership with NIACC Business & Workforce Solutions. The relationship began several years ago when a NIACC Business Resource Consultant introduced Henkel Construction to available training opportunities. Since then, NIACC has provided training in areas including safety, leadership, and certifications, along with customized training designed around Henkel Construction’s workforce and business needs.
Customized training has become especially valuable as Henkel Construction navigates a shrinking labor market and shortage of candidates with specialized skills. Rather than relying solely on finding employees with the exact expertise needed, the company has focused on developing talent from within. Working with NIACC has helped Henkel Construction address specific skills gaps while creating opportunities for employees to advance their careers and take on greater responsibilities.
The impact has extended beyond technical skills. Henkel Construction has seen improvements in safety, efficiency, productivity, employee engagement, and professional growth. Training has also strengthened company culture by showing employees that their development is a priority. During one company-wide conflict resolution training, an employee described it as the best training he had ever participated in. Feedback like that reinforces the value of continuing to invest in its people.
Henkel Construction describes NIACC as an extension of its team, with its Business Resource Consultant helping identify training opportunities and coordinate the process from planning through delivery. For other businesses considering customized training, Henkel Construction encourages them to explore what NIACC has to offer. While workforce development requires an investment of time and resources, the company believes the return is worth it, from seeing employees apply new skills on the job to building a workforce that feels valued and prepared for the future.
Inspired by Henkel Construction’s story? NIACC partners with businesses of all sizes to deliver customized training solutions that help employees grow and organizations succeed. Learn more about Customized Training or request a consultation to discuss your workforce development needs.
