As our local economy continues to grow and diversify, the demand for skilled workers in various sectors has never been greater. From Health Care and Manufacturing to Education and Construction, Central Minnesota has a vibrant economy where individuals can find rewarding careers that align with their passions and strengths. The collaborative efforts among businesses, educational institutions and community organizations that are dedicated to equipping the workforce with the skills needed for success in today's job market help maintain Central Minnesota's economic standing amid an increasingly competitive global economy.

Whether you are a job seeker eager to explore new career paths, an employer looking for strategies to attract and retain talent, or a community member interested in the economic vitality of our region, workforce development professionals who are part of the statewide CareerForce system are ready to help you.

In 11 of the 13 counties in the region, workforce development is managed by Central Minnesota Jobs and Training Services (CMJTS). CMJTS covers Chisago, Isanti, Kanabec, Kandiyohi, McLeod, Meeker, Mille Lacs, Pine, Renville, Sherburne and Wright counties. The CMJTS website describes the importance of their work. "Not only do jobseekers — adults, youth, entry-level, career-changers, low-income, unemployed and underemployed workers — count on us for professional career guidance based on their individual circumstances, economic self-sufficiency needs, and local labor market demands. But businesses in our communities count on us for qualified workers to fill their job positions." Visit the CMJTS website for a list of upcoming events.

Career Solutions serves the remaining two counties in the Central Minnesota region: Stearns and Benton, which are home to St. Cloud and some of its surrounding communities . The Career Solutions website describes the work of their  employment and training organization in this way. "For over thirty years, through career counseling, job training, and business relationships, we've helped entry-level to experienced workers – youth to adults – train for and gain meaningful self-sustaining employment."
CMJTS and Career Solutions offer a variety of programs to support job seekers and employers in Central Minnesota. This includes adult and youth programs, work-based learning and on-the-job training, career exploration, employer services, training grants and incentives, incumbent worker training, registered apprenticeships and much more. These excellent workforce development organizations also offer job search assistance, career counseling, skills training and support for employers in finding qualified workers. In addition, they offer training in manufacturing and health care skills, Adult Basic Education services, and Life-Work Planning Center workshops focusing on personal growth, career development, and job search support.

To get connected with CMJTS and Career Solutions, individuals and employers should reach out to the CareerForce location nearest them. CareerForce is Minnesota's unified workforce system, and local workforce boards like CMJTS and Career Solutions play a crucial role in its operation.

Figure 1 illustrates the most common types of occupations workers in Central Minnesota hold. From Cashiers to Carpenters, workforce development plays a role in the career path of many workers. The activities can be as simple as a publicly-funded training program or as comprehensive as a long-term training collaboration between public and private-sector entities.

For More Information

Contact Luke Greiner, Labor Market Analyst, at luke.greiner@state.mn.us