An Industry Recognized Credential (IRC) is a certificate or qualification that proves you have the real-world skills needed for a specific career, trade, or technical field.
To earn an IRC, you complete required training, hands-on practice, and a final assessment or exam that shows you can perform the essential tasks of the job.
These credentials matter because they give you a competitive edge—helping you stand out to employers, qualify for higher-paying jobs, and build a strong foundation for college or future training programs. Whether you’re planning to enter the workforce right after high school or continue your education, an IRC can open doors and give you a head start on your career path.
Students who participate in Agricultural Education and FFA have the opportunity to build real-world skills while working toward two important achievements: their Iowa FFA Degree and an Industry Recognized Credential (IRC). Through hands-on coursework, supervised agricultural experiences, and leadership activities, students gain the knowledge and competencies needed to qualify for these credentials. Earning the Iowa Degree and an IRC not only recognizes a student’s dedication and expertise in agriculture, but also strengthens their résumé, supports college and career readiness, and opens doors to future opportunities in the ag industry and beyond.
Students who participate in Spanish courses can take an approved language proficiency assessment to earn the Iowa Seal of Biliteracy, a statewide recognition that proves they can read, write, speak, and understand Spanish at a high level. By demonstrating these skills, students may also qualify for an Industry Recognized Credential (IRC) tied to language proficiency. Earning the Seal of Biliteracy and an IRC not only showcases a student’s commitment to mastering another language, but also boosts their résumé, enhances college applications, and opens doors to careers where bilingual communication is a valuable asset.