Established in 1999, the Institute has developed as a central point of coordination for several related but distinct programs, projects, and centers, including the Upper Midwest Center for Public Health Preparedness and the Upper Midwest Public Health Training Center. At the heart of these endeavors is the goal of enhancing the public health workforce in Iowa and the Upper Midwest through competency-based training and community-focused collaborations. The Institute and its Centers deliver training programs across Iowa in collaboration with state and local public health agencies; nursing, medical, pharmacy, and hospital associations; emergency management and public safety agencies; state universities and community colleges; and the University Hygienic Laboratory, which serves as the official state public health laboratory. Partnerships with Nebraska and South Dakota have also been established, extending connections across state borders to amplify workforce development.