When Joann Fabric closed its doors in April 2025, Rachel VanDerLinden saw it as the perfect opportunity to chase a lifelong dream. Having always loved animals, she decided it was time to turn that passion into a career through NIACC’s Professional Dog Grooming program. Before enrolling, Rachel was already balancing her time between work and volunteering. She lived independently, had her own rescue pup named Forest, and enjoyed walking dogs from the Humane Society. In February 2023, she connected with 43 North Iowa, an organization offering employment support and resources, where her IPS Employment Specialist first introduced her to NIACC’s grooming program. With encouragement from both her specialist and NIACC staff, Rachel decided to take the leap and enroll.
Rachel graduated from NIACC’s Professional Dog Grooming program on August 14, 2025. Along the way, she earned her Derma Bather Certificate, which every student who passes the program achieves as their first step in the grooming process. While she did not obtain her Professional Dog Grooming Certificate, Rachel embraced her own learning pace and took the time she needed to feel comfortable with her new skills. This serves as reminder that success looks different for everyone. She describes her experience as hands-on, supportive, and confidence-building, thanks to an approachable instructor and interactive training style. “My favorite part was shaving and grooming, it was super satisfying,” Rachel said.
After completing the program, Rachel gained valuable hands-on experience at a local grooming salon, where she was able to apply her classroom learning to real-world situations. She credits NIACC for helping her build a strong foundation and for the confidence that allowed her to take that next step. “The training at NIACC gave me a basic understanding and confidence,” she explained. “It helps me learn new strategies faster and apply what I’ve learned in class directly to my work.”
For Rachel, the most rewarding part of her journey has been simple: getting to do what she loves and helping animals. Each step of her story reinforces her decision to take a chance on herself and follow her passion. Looking ahead, her goals are to continue improving her skills, gain confidence using shears and clippers, and eventually become a full-time professional groomer. When asked what advice she would give to others considering a career change, she shared this encouragement: “It’s all about doing what you love. If you love what you’re doing, you’re going to succeed.”
If you or someone you know would like to join NIACC’s Professional Dog Grooming program, learn more here.
If you would like to schedule a grooming appointment for your dog at Canine Campus, visit here.
