Southwest Minnesota is home to two local workforce development boards that are part of the statewide CareerForce system and dedicated to addressing workforce needs and challenges across the region. These boards play a crucial role in fostering economic development by guiding workforce initiatives and providing a range of services to job seekers and employers alike.

Southwest Minnesota Private Industry Council (PIC)

The Southwest Minnesota Private Industry Council serves a broad area, covering 14 counties: Big Stone, Chippewa, Cottonwood, Jackson, Lac qui Parle, Lincoln, Lyon, Murray, Nobles, Pipestone, Redwood, Rock, Swift and Yellow Medicine. With locations in Montevideo, Marshall, and Worthington, the PIC works to design and implement workforce development programs tailored to the unique needs of these counties, ensuring that local businesses have access to a skilled and ready workforce.

South Central WorkForce Council

The South Central WorkForce Council serves nine counties in South Central Minnesota: Blue Earth, Brown, Faribault, LeSueur, Martin, Nicollet, Sibley, Waseca and Watonwan. Similar to the PIC, this council focuses on creating and overseeing workforce development initiatives that align with the needs of the local economy and labor market. There are CareerForce locations in Fairmont, Mankato, and New Ulm; as well as Minnesota Valley Action Council (MVAC) locations in all nine counties.

Collaboration through CareerForce

Both the Southwest Minnesota PIC and the South Central WorkForce Council are integral parts of CareerForce, Minnesota's unified workforce system. CareerForce aims to streamline workforce development efforts across the state, providing a cohesive and comprehensive approach to job training and employment services. These workforce boards guide the design of local initiatives and manage CareerForce locations within their regions.

Services Offered

The services provided by these workforce development partners are diverse and comprehensive, aimed at both job seekers and employers. They include:

• Job Search Assistance and Career Counseling: Helping individuals navigate the job market and find suitable employment opportunities.
• Skills Training and Education Programs: Offering training in various fields to enhance the employability of job seekers.
• Employer Support: Assisting businesses in finding qualified workers and providing resources to help them grow and thrive.

Addressing Workforce Challenges

Both the Southwest Minnesota PIC and the South Central WorkForce Council are actively working to address the shortage of skilled workers in their regions. Their strategies include:

• Enhancing Employer Engagement through Sector-Based Partnerships: Working closely with employers to understand their needs and develop programs that align with industry demands, then targeting career pathways in key industries to ensure a steady pipeline of skilled workers.
• Increasing Service Levels for Individuals Facing Employment Disparities: Enhancing support and outcomes for individuals who face barriers to employment.
• Expanding Partnerships with Local School Districts: Collaborating with schools to boost career awareness, provide career counseling and create work-based learning opportunities for students and parents.

Economic Impact

The efforts of these workforce development boards are crucial in providing a diverse and quality workforce that meets the needs of regional employers. By addressing workforce shortages, supporting career development, and fostering strong partnerships with local businesses and educational institutions, they contribute significantly to the economic growth and sustainability of Southwest and South Central Minnesota.

In conclusion, the Southwest Minnesota PIC and the South Central WorkForce Council are key players in the region's economic development strategy. Through their leadership in CareerForce and their innovative approaches to workforce development, they are helping to build a robust and resilient workforce that supports the region's economic prosperity.

For More Information

Contact Luke Greiner at luke.greiner@state.mn.us or Amanda O'Connell at amanda.oconnell@state.mn.us.