A courtroom is usually not a place most people want to find themselves in – whether for jury duty, an overdue parking ticket, or something a little more personal and complicated — it's often a tense environment packed with distrustful faces and a sense of uncertainty lingering in the air. 

For Jayne Williams, a student in DMACC’s court reporting program, there's nothing more intriguing than the suspense that fills a courtroom as the judge announces the final verdict. 

Probably because she’s embraced and navigated uncertainty with the curiosity of a life-long learner and the dexterity of a pianist. 

Originally from Indianapolis, Indiana, where she grew up practicing piano and, unbeknownst to her, developing muscle memory that would be perfect for court reporting, Jayne ventured to Iowa in 2014 to close the distance between her and her high school sweetheart. 

Unsure of her next step or what her future holds, Jayne decided to attend college. 

“I wasn't sure what I wanted to do, but I knew I wanted to get a higher education. So, I thought, ‘I'll just go to DMACC; their programs are highly rated — I'll see where I land after,’” she giggled. 

One associate's degree in liberal arts, one bachelor's degree in social work, and a late-night scrolling through Facebook later, Jayne landed in a courtroom for the very first time in 2018. 

As a court assistant for the Polk County Courthouse, she enjoyed spending her days drafting orders, scheduling hearings, and, in her words, “keeping the courtroom moving.” But the pay wasn’t enough to support Jayne’s growing family (she was pregnant with her daughter at the time) so she looked for other opportunities.  

Jayne realized she’d need more training to move up in the career that finally made sense.  

A bit of research led her to DMACC’s court reporting associate's degree— the only National Court Reporter’s Association (NCRA) certified program offered in the state of Iowa.  

"That's a big deal," Jayne said. 
 
Plus, she knew from firsthand experience that court reporters are in high demand.   

“It’s a desperately needed role,” Jayne said. "People at the Polk County Courthouse will practically beg you to get the proper education." Thus, returning to DMACC seemed like a no-brainer.  

“Coming back was such an easy decision,” Jayne said. “I had a great time at DMACC 10 years ago...and this time around, the DMACC Foundation scholarships were especially helpful.”  

Completing the Court Reporting program is no small feat; students must demonstrate exceptional speed, accuracy, and focus, along with the ability to master complex legal terminology and adapt to stressful situations. 

Jayne, a classically trained pianist, compares using a stenotype – the specialized keyboard court reporters use to transcribe spoken words into written text at high speeds – to playing the piano. 

"I don't think a lot of people make that connection," she said, "and it's 100% similar. On the stenotype, I don't type one letter at a time. I type them all together to create words, like playing keys at the same time to create chords on a piano." 

Balancing school, part-time work, and raising a five-year-old is a challenge, but Jayne is positively thriving. She even carved out time in her busy schedule to serve as a Student Ambassador for the Iowa Court Reporters Association – a mentorship role for aspiring court reporting students.  

It wouldn't have been possible without the support of her instructors. 

"They have been incredibly understanding and helpful,” Jayne beamed, “They're more than happy to extend a helping hand and workshop solutions." 

As she reflects on all the decisions that have led her to where she is right now, Jayne has one thing to say: It's never too late. 

"The concept of 'too late' is so wild to me—there is no such thing! I think it's so easy to dip your toes into something new, especially at DMACC. Find what makes you happy and pursue it, no matter how long you spend looking for it." 

Bear Trails highlights unique journeys of DMACC students, alumni, faculty, and staff, celebrating their diverse experiences and inspiring paths. Have a story idea? Contact Savannah Eadens, Public Relations & Communications Specialist, at sjeadens@dmacc.edu or 515-675-3275.