Business & Professional Development
Improve yourself through learning and training to advance in your career.
SCC offers quality training that can help energize your workforce and help upgrade professional skills.
Browse our courses below and register today!
Want to get the scoop on upcoming classes?
Business Startup Essentials
Thinking about starting or buying a business in your community? This workshop walks
you through the key steps to launch with confidence. Learn how to develop a business
plan, understand your local market, estimate costs, secure financing, and navigate
licenses, taxes, and marketing. Participants receive a business plan template, a step-by-step
startup guide, and access to resources to support success. Class sponsored by America's
SBDC Iowa.
110388
W, Oct 7
6 - 8 pm
$29
SCC WB
J Clover
Sign up now
Understanding Your Businesses Taxes
Income tax, sales tax, payroll tax, and the list goes on for taxes your business pays.
Discussion will center on the various business taxes, forms and ways to file and pay
the taxes, and things you can do in your record keeping system to better understand
and lessen your tax burden. Participants will receive all materials and are encouraged
to bring specific questions.
110390
W, Nov 11
6 - 8 PM
$59
SCC WB
J Clover
Sign up now
Business Coffee Chat
Join us in-person for a relaxed, informal coffee chat designed for students, entrepreneurs
and small business owners. Topical conversation starters will be suggested and this
is a great opportunity to ask questions, share ideas, and connect with others in your
community. Whether you're just getting started or already in business, come enjoy
conversation, support, and practical insights in our Starbucks Café on the SCC campus!
110391
F, Sep 25
8:30 - 9:30 AM
$0
BlackHawk Cafe (Starbucks)
J Clover
112579
F, Oct 23
8:30 - 9:30 AM
$0
BlackHawk Cafe (Starbucks)
J Clover
112580
F, Dec 4
8:30 - 9:30 AM
$0
BlackHawk Cafe (Starbucks)
J Clover
Sign up now
Blackhawk Virtual Coffee
Join us via zoom for our monthly business series featuring hot topics in today's business
world. Topics will include marketing ideas for your business to working with QuickBooks
to planning your business exit and more! Speakers and topics will vary. Your email
will be needed to receive the Zoom link.
110392
Branding IS a Marketing Strategy
T, Oct 6
9 - 10 AM
$0
Zoom
Kirsten Protsman
112589
Retirement by Design
T, Nov 3
9 - 10 AM
$0
Zoom
Dave George
112590
Understanding Your Business Taxes
T, Dec 1
9 - 10 AM
$0
Zoom
J Clover
Sign up now
How to Build a Sellable Business
Increase the value of your business and prepare for a successful exit-on your terms.
A highly interactive, half-day workshop designed exclusively for business owners who
want to understand what drives business value and take clear, practical steps to improve
it. Whether you plan to sell in the near future or simply want to strengthen your
business, this session provides the insight and tools to help you move forward with
confidence. Participants will learn the key factors that make a business transferable
and attractive to buyers, including financial performance, operational independence,
and management structure. You'll calculate an estimated value of your business using
proven valuation methods and explore how your role as the owner impacts that value.
Gain understanding of the most common exit options-from selling to a third party to
transitioning to family or employees-helping you identify the path that best fits
your goals. Through guided exercises and group discussion, each participant will develop
a personalized 30-60-90 day action plan to increase business value and reduce owner
dependency. Worksheets and Lunch included. (Sponsored by The Exit Factor Des Moines, Iowa)
110389
T, Nov 10
10 AM - 2 PM
$75
SCC Mount Pleasant Center, 101
J Voss
Sign up now
AI for Business and Workplace Leaders
A practical, non-technical session for business owners, managers, and workplace leaders
who want to better understand how AI is changing the workplace. The class will focus
on real-world uses of AI, productivity opportunities, employee concerns, risk areas,
and practical steps leaders can take to use AI responsibly and effectively.
110393
W, Oct 14
9 - 10:30 AM
$195
SCC WB, 301
R Curry
Sign up now
Accounting Basic Concepts
Designed for the non-accountant bookkeeper, office manager or owner of a business. Learn basic accounting terms including revenues, expenses, assets, and liabilities. Learn to build and read the income statement, balance sheet, and statement of cash flows. Become familiar with accounting debits and credits as you learn how to record transactions in this hands-on course.
Available Upon Request
Call 319-208-5375
We make it easy to get comfortable with QuickBooks®. This course will address setting up your chart of accounts, customer and vendor files, recurring transactions, and products/services you sell. Learn how to manage money coming in including sales, invoicing, and deposits, and money going out by paying bills, booking credit card expenditures, and tracking expenses. You'll learn how to reconcile accounts, track loans and loan payments, book fixed assets, and use reports to understand your business, track sales trends and profitability, and prepare for tax time. You'll leave knowing that you're doing a good job and can handle whatever QuickBooks sends your way.
Available Upon Request
Call 319-208-5375
Sign up now
It's a fact of business-if a company has employees, it has to account for payroll, fringe benefits, and payroll taxes. This comprehensive course will guide you through processing a new employee, calculating payroll and payroll taxes, payroll tax reporting, periodic and year end payroll reporting to the government.
Available Upon Request
Call 319-208-5375
Moving from doing to supervising is no easy task, but help is on the way. This session covers the basics of what new supervisors need to elevate their performance and the results of their teams. Topics include how to build and grow your credibility, respond to team members of different abilities, employ the right influence tactic to fit the situation, apply the five practices of exemplary supervision, and manage conflict. Each topic includes skill development and practical applications. New supervisors will leave this class with the knowledge and skills needed to move from exemplary team members to effective team supervisors who achieve excellent results. *Approved Course for Leadership Fundamentals: Building Blocks for Entry-Level Success.
110371
M, Sep 28
9 am - Noon
$349
SCC WB 301
H Woody
Sign up now
There are never enough hours in the day, but you can learn to be more effective with the time you do have. This session will provide you with strategies to make better use of your time, implementing measurable action steps that will allow you to take control of your day and maximize your productive potential. We will cover time management, identifying time-wasters, conducting a personal time study, planning and tools, the Eisenhower Matrix, meetings, and unruly email. *Approved Course for Leadership Fundamentals: Building Blocks for Entry-Level Success.
110373
Th, Nov 5
8 - 10 AM
$179
SCC WB 301
R Curry
Sign up now
Documentation Basics
A habit of creating meaningful documentation is an essential tool for any successful
leader, providing an essential tool for people management while protecting and minimizing
company liability. This session will provide the fundamentals of good documentation
practices - including good versus bad documentation, tools and methods, and retention
requirements. We will also workshop different scenarios highlighting the importance
of strong documentation practice. *Approved Course for Leadership Fundamentals: Building
Blocks for Entry-Level Success.
110375
Th, Nov 5
10:30 AM - Noon
$145
SCC CBIZ 301
R Curry
Sign up now
Employment Law
There are never enough hours in the day, but you can learn to be more effective with
the time you do have. This session will provide you with strategies to make better
use of your time, implementing measurable action steps that will allow you to take
control of your day and maximize your productive potential. We will cover time management,
identifying time-wasters, conducting a personal time study, planning and tools, the
Eisenhower Matrix, meetings, and unruly email. *Approved Course for Leadership Fundamentals:
Building Blocks for Entry-Level Success.
112617
Th, Nov 5
1 - 3 PM
$179
SCC WB 301
R Curry
Sign up now
Buddy to Boss
One day, they are your co-workers and buddies - the people you socialize with and
take coffee breaks with. Now, you're their boss. Suddenly, you find yourself questioning
what you should and shouldn't say to your former co-workers. Your job is now about
them and no longer all about you. The challenge is not only in taking on the demands
of a new, elevated role and the skills and knowledge required, but it is also in making
the emotional and mental transition to that of manager. *Approved Course for Leadership
Fundamentals: Building Blocks for Entry-Level Success.
110379
Th,Jan 7
9 am - Noon
$279
SCC WB 301
H Woody
Sign up now
Motivation
Identify what factors motivate and de-motivate employees. This workshop will explain
motivational needs and develop strategies that would work in your facility and identify
traditional methods of motivation. Participants will receive guidelines for effective
encouragement. *Approved Course for Leadership Fundamentals: Building Blocks for
Entry-Level Success.
110379
Th,Jan 7
9 am - Noon
$279
SCC WB 301
H Woody
Sign up now
Handling Conflict
One of the most difficult and most avoided topics in every company and relationship
is that of conflict. We all learn from our past in how we handle conflict with others.
Some of us have great examples and others, not so much. Everyone experiences some
degree of workplace conflict; therefore, we all deserve training on how to handle
it most effectively, focusing on great results and best teaming relationships. You
will focus on conflict do's and don'ts. Pay close attention to a conflict roadmap
that will allow a productive strategy for encouraging and following through with healthy
conflict. We will take a closer look at each individual's natural conflict style to
increase awareness and become better able to effectively navigate more effective conflict
situations.
110383
T, Apr 6
9 am - Noon
$279
SCC WB 301
H Woody
Sign up
Communication Skills for Managers
Participants will discuss how to be a better listener and how to coach an employee to change their performance to meet expectations. Practice giving feedback to employees through role-play. Whether communicating to your team members, peers or your own manager, this course will help you hone both your communication and influencing skills, helping you deliver the right message for winning outcomes.
110385
Th, May 27
9 am - 4 PM
$495
SCC WB 301
D McKee
Sign up now
HR Legal Issues for Managers
Learn about the human resource function and legal issues that impact a manager's role. From interviewing tips to termination decisions, this course will provide a foundational level of understanding of the major employment laws. Through the use of case studies, you will experience an interactive and lively discussion of common employment issues faced by managers in any industry. *Approved course for High Performance Leadership: Strategies for Effective Management.
110387
W, Sep 16
9 AM - 4 PM
$1195
SCC WB 301
M Hudson
Sign up now
Critical Thinking
Instructor-led training session designed to strengthen critical thinking, structured
reasoning, and data-informed decision-making for management and leadership professionals.
The training focuses on practical tools participants can apply immediately to improve
problem-solving, root cause analysis, and operational decision-making.
112684
T, Oct 20
9 AM - 4 PM
$595
SCC WB 301
J Pape
Sign up now
Your emotions play a vital role in our work and personal lives. Channeling your emotions, either positively or negatively, can make or break your professional relationships. We will gain insight into how to use our emotions to create positive workplace results. Through discussion, we will uncover techniques that will allow you to set aside emotions that sabotage your own effectiveness. *This course is approved for the Effective Management Certificate.
110399
T, Nov 10
9 am - Noon
$279
SCC WB 301
H Woody
Sign up now
Building Inclusive and Adaptable Teams Cultural Intelligence (CQ) goes beyond diversity checklists-it's a practical skill set leaders can develop to better navigate today's increasingly complex workplace. In this interactive session, participants will explore the dynamics of culture and identity, gain insights into their own biases, and strengthen their ability to lead across differences with respect and confidence. Through real-world examples and reflective dialogue, leaders will leave with tools to foster greater connection, understanding, and performance on their teams. Approved course for High Performance Certificate
110401
Th, Dec 17
8 AM - Noon
$649
SCC WB 301
C Peerman
Sign up now
Learn to write measurable performance expectations and evaluate non-tangible skills. Learn to evaluate employees' current performance and write performance objectives they can follow. This course covers what to do when employees do not meet expectations, including the necessary disciplinary action; as well as progressive discipline including written performance plans. *This course is approved for the Effective Management Certificate.
110404
T, Jan 12
9 AM - 4 PM
$585
SCC WB 301
D McKee
Sign up now
Change is inevitable-but how you lead through it determines your team's success. This course equips leaders with the mindset and tools to confidently guide themselves and their teams through workplace change. Participants will explore the emotional dynamics of change, learn how to communicate effectively during transitions, and discover strategies to reduce resistance and boost engagement. With a focus on seeing change as an opportunity, this session will help leaders foster resilience, adaptability, and a forward-focused culture. This course is approved for the Effective Management Certificate.
110406
Th, Feb 11
8 am - Noon
$649
SCC WB 301
C Peerman
Sign up now
Coaching for Performance
Learn a coaching strategy to supplement your leadership and management strategies. Understand the qualities of great coaches, leadership coaching strategies and coaching skills. You will have the opportunity to practice coaching skills as well as experience being coached with fellow participants. *Approved course for High Performance Leadership: Strategies for Effective Management.
110408
T, Mar 9
9 am - Noon
$279
SCC WB 301
H Woody
Sign up now
Leading High Performance Teams
Transform your team into a high-performing one. Learn the basics of team dynamics,
the stages of team formation, and how to utilize individual strengths to bring out
the best in all team members. Learn about your own leadership style and explore its
impact on team performance. *Approved course for High Performance Leadership: Strategies
for Effective Management.
110410
T, Apr 13
9 am - 4 PM
$585
SCC WB 301
D McKee
Sign up now
Delegation for Leaders
Strong leaders empower others by sharing responsiblity. This course helps leaders master the art of delegation - assigning tasks, priorities, and projects effectively across all skill levels. Learn when and how to delegate, how to match tasks to team readiness, and how proper empowerment builds confidence, capability, and bench strength within your organization. *Approved course for High Performance Leadership: Strategies for Effective Management.
110412
T, May 11
9 am - Noon
$279
SCC WB 301
H Woody
Sign up now
The Pawn's Journey: Leadership Strategies for Professionals
The Pawn's Journey: Leadership Strategy for Professionals Strong leaders aren't born-they're
built, one move at a time. The Pawn's Journey turns the ancient game of chess into
a masterclass on business strategy, personal discipline, and organizational leadership.
Learn how to identify high-value moves, leverage your position, and lead with purpose
under pressure. Through hands-on activities and guided discussion, participants will
apply battlefield-tested principles to modern challenges in management, sales, and
entrepreneurship. Ideal for business owners, team leaders, and professionals seeking
clarity and competitive edge.
110417
W, Oct 28
9 - 11 AM
$35
SCC WB 203
S Johnson
Sign up now
A manager-focused session on recognizing, preventing, and responding appropriately to sexual harassment concerns in the workplace. The class will cover legal basics, manager responsibilities, documentation, reporting expectations, retaliation prevention, and practical examples of how supervisors should respond to concerns professionally and consistently.
110394
W, Dec 2
9 - 10:30 AM
$195
SCC WB 333
R Curry
Sign up now
Workplace Ethics, Conduct, and Policy Development
A practical session on workplace ethics, employee conduct, and the importance of clear
policies. The class will address respectful conduct, honesty and integrity, conflicts
of interest, confidentiality, use of company property and systems, reporting concerns,
non-retaliation, and how employers can connect ethics expectations to policies, training,
and workplace culture.
110395
W, Feb 10
9 - 10:30 AM
$195
SCC WB
R Curry
Sign up now
Sharpen your HR Skills to face today's HR issues. SHRM, the leading global HR professional
organization, has developed the SHRM Essentials of Human Resources course, which teaches
the HR knowledge, skill, and competencies required for overall business success. Whether
you are new to HR, or it's one of the many roles you fulfill at your company. In less
than 20 hours of training time, you can cover the issues you need to reduce potentially
costly lawsuits. The straightforward format ensures that HR concepts can be mastered
and applied to real-life situations. This course is a partnership with North Iowa
Area Community College (NIACC).
Call 319-208-5375 or email cbiz@scciowa.edu for class dates.
Commit to Your Career. HR professionals like you are facing new and larger challenges each day due in part to a changing workforce, shifting legislation and regulations and so much more. Ensure you're prepared for these changes and anything else thrown your way with SHRM's global HR credentials, SHRM-CP and SHRM-SCP. Unlike memorization-based certification credentials, SHRM certification measures an HR professional's most critical skill: the ability to apply HR principles to real-life situations. No other exam compares. By becoming SHRM certified, you prove your knowledge, competency and value to colleagues and to employers looking for a competitive edge in today's global economy. Wherever your career takes you, your SHRM certification will define you as an HR expert and leader. Network and collaborate with peers to share real-life examples and bring HR knowledge and competencies to life. The tuition includes the cost of instruction and the SHRM learning system (online and printed material). This course is provided through a partnership with North Iowa Area Community College (NIACC).
Call 319-208-5375 or email cbiz@scciowa.edu for class dates.
Social Media for Business Using Meta
Discover how to effectively use social media to connect, engage, and grow your audience.
This introductory course covers the essentials of major Meta platforms— including
Facebook, Instagram, and Meta Business Suite — along with tips for creating content,
scheduling posts, and understanding analytics. Perfect for small business owners and
entrepreneurs looking to strengthen their online presence. A personal Facebook account and Facebook Business Page are required. Must set up prior
to the class.
110415
MW, Oct 26 & 28
5 - 7 PM
$69
SCC WB 190
E Rose
Sign up now
Content Creation: Intro to Video
You do not need a camera crew or expensive equipment to create engaging video content. In this hands-on class, you will learn how to plan, shoot, and edit short videos for your business or organization using only your smartphone. We will cover simple filming techniques, free editing apps, and tips for creating content that connects with your audience on platforms like Facebook, Instagram, and TikTok.
110420
MW, Feb 8 & 10
5 - 7 PM
$69
SCC WB 190
E Rose
Sign up now
Stay Connected
Contact Us
Center for Business (CBIZ)
Phone: (319) 208-5375
Email: cbiz@scciowa.edu