2010 Area Career Exploration Resource Guide

AREA

CAREER

EXPLORATION

Resource Guide

April 7, 2010Fairmont Jr./Sr. High School

Area Career Exploration Sponsors

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Welcome To The Area Career Exploration

Dear ACE Participants,

We are excited to have you participate in our Area Career Exploration (ACE). Our mission is to make you aware of career opportunities in this area.

There will be a chance to have face-to-face interactions with area employers and ask about the countless career opportunities available to you. Education representatives will provide you with information needed to obtain the skills necessary for the career opportunities that interest you.

Our area, which is your area, is a great place to work, live and have fun. We have several great cultural events, types of recreation, and we are close to many other attractive activities. This area is rich in history with countless great employment opportunities.

Our area is country living at its best. We hope you enjoy your experience at the Area Career Exploration, that ACE introduces you to opportunities in the area that interest you, and you consider becoming a part of the area.

So, explore … set your goals … develop your talents … and think about the opportunities in the area.

We wish you well in your journey, and we will always welcome you back.

Garey Ferguson Bob Wallace Business Service Specialist President Department of Employment & Economic Development Fairmont Area Chamber of Commerce

Marcia Bay Denise Felder ISEEK Partner Communications & Training Director ACE Resource Guide Chair & MnCareers Editor iSeek Solutions iSeek Solutions

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Thanks To Our 2010 Area Career Exploration Volunteers

ACE EXECUTIVE COMMITTEE:Marcia Bay,• iSeek SolutionsGarey Ferguson,• DEEDButch Hanson,• Fairmont Area SchoolsMike Humpal,• Fairmont Economic Development Authority (FEDA)Lynn Manske,• Fairmont Area SchoolsDave Paschke,• Fairmont Area SchoolsBob Wallace,• Fairmont Area Chamber of Commerce

ACE RESOURCE GUIDE CONTENT:Jennifer Bendix, • Minnesota West Community & Technical CollegeDenise Felder• , Chair, iSeek SolutionsCallie Goerndt• , Fairmont Area Chamber of CommerceJennifer Ridgeway, • DEEDGarey Ferguson• , DEEDBob Wallace• , Fairmont Area Chamber of Commerce

ACE RESOURCE GUIDE COVER/LOGO DESIGN:Char Kahler• , Char Commercial Art

ACE RESOURCE GUIDE PRINTING:Norwood Publishing•

ACE EVENT DAY COMMITTEE:American Association of University Women (AAUW)•Marcia Bay,• iSeek SolutionsJudy Beckman• , AAUWDan Brookens• , KSUM/KFMCTim Clements• , ShopkoRoni Dauer,• Fairmont Community Education & RecreationGarey Ferguson,• DEEDHeather Gleason, • South Central WorkForce CouncilCallie Goerndt,• Fairmont Area Chamber of CommerceButch Hanson, • Fairmont Area SchoolsTammie Hested,• Minnesota Valley Action CouncilConnie Hines, • Minnesota Workforce CenterShirley Jordison, • Minnesota WorkForce CenterChar Kahler,• Char Commercial ArtLynn Manske, • Fairmont Area SchoolsJo Moltzen• , AAUWLinda Paplinski• , AAUWVicki Paskey,• Minnesota Valley Action CouncilJennifer Ridgeway, • DEEDTom Steffes,• Fairmont Area Chamber of CommerceLawerence Sukalski• , Martin County IGNITE

Bob Wallace,• Fairmont Area Chamber of Commerce

ACE EVENT COORDINATORS: Garey Ferguson• , Department of Employment & Economic Development (DEED) - 507-235-3653 - [email protected] Wallace• , Fairmont Area Chamber of Commerce - 507-235-5547 - [email protected]

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ACE Volunteers

FINANCIAL COMMITTEE:Roni Dauer,• Fairmont Community Education & RecreationGarey Ferguson,• DEEDMike Humpal, • Fairmont Economic Development AssociationLynn Manske,• Fairmont Area SchoolsTim Penney• , Southern Minnesota Initiative Foundation - SMIFTom Steffes, • Fairmont Area Chamber of CommerceLawrence Sukalski,• Martin County IGNITEBob Wallace, • Fairmont Area Chamber of Commerce

EDUCATION COMMITTEE:Jennifer Bendix,• Minnesota West Community & Technical College Kristi Brandt,• Fairmont Area SchoolsScott Geerdes, • Fairmont Area SchoolsButch Hanson, • Fairmont Area SchoolsTraci Lardy,• Presentation College — FairmontLynn Manske, • Fairmont Area SchoolsJenny Schwieger,• Fairmont Area Schools

FAIRMONT AREA SCHOOL VOLUNTEERS:Sheila Artner,• Fairmont Area SchoolsKristi Brandt,• Fairmont Area SchoolsMark Borchardt, • Fairmont Area SchoolsHolly Christian,• Fairmont Area SchoolsScott Geerdes,• Fairmont Area SchoolsButch Hanson,• Fairmont Area Schools

Lynn Manske,• Fairmont Area SchoolsDave Paschke,• Fairmont Area SchoolsJenny Schwieger,• Fairmont Area SchoolsLee Stewart,• Fairmont Area SchoolsDave Ternberg,• Fairmont Area Schools

ACE EVENT MARKETING:Garey Ferguson,• DEEDBob Wallace• , Fairmont Area Chamber of CommerceGary Anderson• , Sentinel

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Welcome 2 Thanks to ACE Volunteers 3

Career Clusters & High-Demand Occupations

What is a Career Cluster? 6 Career Cluster Interest Survey 7

Career Cluster Graphic 14 Agriculture, Food & Natural Resources 15

Architecture & Construction 17 Arts, A/V & Communications 19

Business, Management & Administration 21 Education & Training 23

Finance 25 Government & Public Administration 27

Health Sciences 29 Hospitality & Tourism 31

Human Services 33 Information Technology 35

Law, Public Safety, Corrections & Security 37 Manufacturing 39

Marketing, Sales & Service 41 Science, Technology, Engineering & Mathematics 43

Transportation, Distribution & Logistics 45 Green Careers in Minnesota 47

High-Demand Careers in South Central Minnesota 49

College, Career & Job Search Resources

Education Planning & College Resources 51 South Central Minnesota College Resources 52

Career Exploration & Job Search Resources 53 Minnesota Job Banks & Employment Websites 55

National Job Banks & Employment Websites 56

ACE Event Information

ACE Participating Colleges 57 ACE Participating Businesses 59

ACE Map of Fairmont High School 66 Career Fair Questions 64

Ace Resource Guide Table Of Contents

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What Is A Career Cluster?

Where do you start when choosing a career? With the number of career choices out there, it helps to orga-nize your options.

Career clusters are one way to group career paths. Careers with common features are in the same cluster. The16CareerClusterscanbeusedduringcareerexplorationasawaytofindyourbestcareer match.

Lookatthecirculargraphiconpage14toseehowallthecareerfields,careerclustersandpathwaysfittogether.

How Can Career Clusters Help Me?

Six Career Fields are the broadest level of career options. » They’re a good place to get started exploring.

Underneaththosesixcareerfieldsare16CareerClusters.Thisiswhereyoucangetmoredetailsaboutcareerspathsthatinterestyou. »Careers that need the same knowledge and skills are grouped in the same cluster. Each cluster can include hundreds of different careers.

Each career cluster includes one or more of the 81 Minnesota Career Pathways. A pathway is a group of related career specialties within »a career cluster. A pathway has its own knowledge and skill requirements. Educational programs can be developed around each pathway. These programs are called Programs of Study, and can include high school and college courses based on industry expectations and skill standards.

The center of the career pathways graphic (page 14) shows Knowledge and Foundation Skills. These are a core set of skills needed to be »ready for work and college.

If you don’t know how to start, take the Career Clusters Interest Survey on page 7. This survey asks a few simple questions to match your interests to career clusters.

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Name GradeSchool Date

DirectionsCircle the items in each box that best describe you. In each box you may circle as many items as you want.1. Add the number of circles in each box. 2. Afteryou’vereviewedthewholesurvey,findyourthreeboxeswiththehighestnumbersandrecordthoseonpage13.3. Discover more about the Career Clusters that matched your interests on pages 15-46.4.

Box

A

Activities that describe what I like to do:Learn how things grow and stay alive.1. Make the best use of the earth’s natural resources.2. Huntand/orfish.3. Protect the environment.4. Be outdoors in all kinds of weather.5. Plan, budget, and keep records.6. Operate machines and keep them in good repair.7.

Personal qualities that describe me:

Self-reliant1. Nature lover2. Physically active3. Planner4. Creative problem-solver5.

School subjects I like:Math1. Life Sciences2. Earth Sciences3. Chemistry4. Agriculture5.

Total number

circled in Box A

Box

B

Activities that describe what I like to do:Read and follow blueprints and/or instructions.1. Pictureinmymindwhatafinishedproductlookslike.2. Work with my hands.3. Perform work that requires precise results.4. Solve technical problems.5. Visit and learn from beautiful, historic, or interesting 6. buildings.Follow logical, step-by-step procedures.7.

Personal qualities thatdescribe me:

Curious1. Good at following 2. directionsPay attention to detail3. Good at visualizing 4. possibilitiesPatient and persistent5.

School subjects I like:Math1. Drafting2. Physical Sciences3. Construction Trades4. Electrical Trades / Heat, Air 5. Conditioning and Refrigeration / Technology Education

Total number

circled in Box B

Career Clusters Interest Survey

7

Box

CActivities that describe what I like to do:

Use my imagination to communicate new 1. information to others.Perform in front of others.2. Read and write.3. Play a musical instrument.4. Perform creative, artistic activities.5. Use video and recording technology.6. Design brochures and posters.7.

Personal qualities that de-scribe me:

Creative and imaginative1. Good communicator/good 2. vocabularyCurious about new 3. technologyRelate well to feelings and 4. thoughts of othersDetermined / tenacious5.

School subjects I like:Art / Graphic design1. Music2. Speech and Drama3. Journalism / Literature4. Audiovisual Technologies5.

Total number

circled in Box B

Box

D

Activities that describe what I like to do:Performroutine,organizedactivitiesbutcanbeflexible.1. Work with numbers and detailed information.2. Be the leader in a group.3. Make business contact with people.4. Work with computer programs.5. Create reports and communicate ideas.6. Plan my work and follow instructions without close su-7. pervision.


Organized1. Practical and logical2. Patient3. Tactful4. Responsible5.

School subjects I like:Computer Applications / 1. Business and Information TechnologyAccounting2. Math3. English4. Economics5.

Total number

circled in Box D

Box

E

Activities that describe what I like to do:Communicate with different types of people.1. Help others with their homework or to learn new things.2. Go to school.3. Direct and plan activities for others.4. Handle several responsibilities at once.5. Acquire new information.6. Help people overcome their challenges.7.


Friendly1. Decision maker2. Helpful3. Innovative/Inquisitive4. Good listener5.

School subjects I like:Language Arts1. Social Studies2. Math3. Science4. Psychology5.

Total number

circled in Box E

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Box

FActivities that describe what I like to do:

Work with numbers.1. Work to meet a deadline.2. Make predictions based on existing facts.3. Have a framework of rules by which to operate.4. Analyzefinancialinformationandinterpretitto 5. others.Handle money with accuracy and reliability.6. Take pride in the way I dress and look.7.


Trustworthy1. Orderly2. Self-confident3. Logical4. Methodicalorefficient5.

School subjects I like:Accounting1. Math2. Economics3. Banking / Financial 4. ServicesBusiness Law5.

Total number

circled in Box F

Box

G

Activities that describe what I like to do:Be involved in politics.1. Negotiate, defend, and debate ideas and topics.2. Plan activities and work cooperatively with others3. Work with details.4. Perform a variety of duties that may change often5. Analyze information and interpret it to others.6. Travel and see things that are new to me.7.


Good communicator1. Competitive2. Service minded3. Well organized4. Problem solver5.

School subjects I like:Government1. Language Arts2. History3. Math4. Foreign Language5.

Total number

circled in Box G

Box

H

Activities that describe what I like to do:Work under pressure.1. Help sick people and animals.2. Make decisions based on logic and information.3. Participate in health and science classes.4. Respond quickly and calmly in emergencies.5. Work as a member of a team.6. Follow guidelines precisely and meet strict 7. standards of accuracy.


Compassionate and 1. caringGood at following 2. directionsConscientious and 3. carefulPatient4. Good listener5.

School subjects I like:Biological Sciences1. Chemistry2. Math3. Occupational Health class-4. esLanguage Arts5.

Total number

circled in Box H

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Box

IActivities that describe what I like to do:

Investigate new places and activities.1. Work with all ages and types of people.2. Organize activities in which other people enjoy 3. themselves.Haveaflexibleschedule.4. Help people make up their minds.5. Communicate easily, tactfully, and courteously.6. Learn about other cultures.7.


Tactful1. Self-motivated2. Works well with others3. Outgoing4. Slow to anger5.

School subjects I like:Language Arts/Speech1. Foreign Language2. Social Science3. Marketing4. Food Services5.

Total number

circled in Box I

Box

J

Activities that describe what I like to do:Care about people, their needs, and their problems1. Participate in community services and/or 2. volunteering.Listen to other people’s viewpoints.3. Help people be at their best.4. Work with people from preschool age to old age.5. Think of new ways to do things.6. Make friends with different kinds of people.7.


Good communicator/good 1. listenerCaring2. Non-materialistic3. Uses intuition and logic4. Non-judgmental5.

School subjects I like:Language Arts1. Psychology/Sociology2. Family and Consumer Sci-3. encesFinance4. Foreign Language5.

Total number

circled in Box J

Box

K

Activities that describe what I like to do:Work with computers.1. Reason clearly and logically to solve complex 2. problems.Use machines, techniques, and processes.3. Read technical materials and diagrams and solve tech-4. nical problems.Adapt to change.5. Playvideogamesandfigureouthowtheywork.6. Concentrate for long periods without being 7. distracted.


Logic / analytical thinker1. See details in the big 2. picturePersistent3. Good concentration skills4. Precise and accurate5.

School subjects I like:Math1. Science2. Computer Tech / 3. ApplicationsCommunications4. Graphic Design5.

Total number

circled in Box K

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Box

LActivities that describe what I like to do:

Work under pressure or in the face of danger.1. Make decisions based on my own observations.2. Interact with other people.3. Be in positions of authority.4. Respect rules and regulations.5. Debate and win arguments.6. Observe and analyze people’s behavior.7.


Adventurous1. Dependable2. Community-minded3. Decisive4. Optimistic5.

School subjects I like:Language Arts1. Psychology/Sociology2. Government/History3. Law Enforcement4. First Aid / First5. Responder6.

Total number

circled in Box L

Box

M

Activities that describe what I like to do:Work with my hands and learn that way.1. Put things together.2. Do routine, organized and accurate work.3. Perform activities that produce tangible results.4. Apply math to work out solutions.5. Use hand and power tools and operate equipment / 6. machinery.Visualizeobjectsinthreedimensionsfromflat 7. drawings.


Practical1. Observant2. Physically active3. Step-by-step thinker4. Coordinated5.

School subjects I like:Math-Geometry1. Chemistry2. Trade and Industry 3. coursesPhysics4. Language Arts5.

Total number

circled in Box M

Box

N

Activities that describe what I like to do:Shop and go to the mall.1. Be in charge.2. Make displays and promote ideas.3. Give presentations and enjoy public speaking.4. Persuade people to buy products or to participate in 5. activities.Communicate my ideas to other people.6. Take advantage of opportunities to make extra 7. money.


Enthusiastic1. Competitive2. Creative3. Self-motivated4. Persuasive5.

School subjects I like:Language Arts1. Math2. Business Education /3. Marketing4. Economics5. Computer Applications6.

Total number

circled in Box N

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Box

OActivities that describe what I like to do:

Interpret formulas.1. Find the answers to questions.2. Work in a laboratory.3. Figure out how things work and investigate new things.4. Explore new technology.5. Experimenttofindthebestwaytodosomething.6. Pay attention to details and help things be precise.7.


Detail oriented1. Inquisitive2. Objective3. Methodical4. Mechanically inclined5.

School subjects I like:Math1. Science2. Drafting/Computer-Aided 3. DraftingElectronics/Computer4. Networking5. Technical Classes /6. Technology Education7.

Total number

circled in Box O

Box

P

Activities that describe what I like to do:Travel.1. Seewellandhavequickreflexes.2. Solve mechanical problems.3. Designefficientprocesses.4. Anticipate needs and prepare to meet them.5. Drive or ride.6. Move things from one place to another.7.


Realistic1. Mechanical2. Coordinated3. Observant4. Planner5.

School subjects I like:Math1. Trade and Industry courses2. Physical Sciences3. Economics4. Foreign Language5.

Total number

circled in Box P

Record your top three boxes on the bottom of page 13.•

Disclaimer: Your interests may change over time. These survey results are intended to assist you with informal career exploration. Consider more formal assessments and other resources or services to help you plan your career. This survey does not make any claims of statistical reliability.

Note: This survey does not make any claims of statistical reliability and has not been normed. It is intended for use as a guidance tool to generate discussion regarding careers and is valid for that purpose.

Source: Adapted from the Guidance Division Survey, Oklahoma Department of Career and Technology Education (2005)

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Career Clusters Interest Survey - Results

Directions: Record your totals from each box on pages 7-12 below. Look through the information about your top three Clusters on pages 15-46. When you attend ACE, visit the career exhibitors that match your top three clusters.

Pages 15-16 Box A _____ Agriculture, Food & Natural Resources

Pages 31-32 Box I _____ Hospitality & Tourism

Pages 17-18 Box B _____ Architecture & Construction

Pages 33-34 Box J _____ Human Services

Pages 19-20 Box C _____ Arts, A/V Technology & Communications

Pages 35-36 Box K _____ Information Technology

Pages 21-22 Box D _____ Business, Management & Administration

Pages 37-38 Box L _____ Law, Public Safety & Security

Pages 23-24 Box E _____ Education & Training

Pages 39-40 Box M _____ Manufacturing

Pages 25-26 Box F _____ Finance

Pages 41-42 Box N _____ Marketing, Sales & Service

Pages 27-28 Box G _____Government & Public Administration

Pages 43-44 Box O _____ Science, Technology, Engineering & Mathematics

Pages 29-30 Box H _____ Health Science

Pages 45-46 Box P _____ Transportation, Distribution & Logistics

My top three Career Clusters of interest are:1. __________________________________

2. __________________________________

3. _________________________________

For more information, check with a career counselor at your high school, college or job training program, community agency, or WorkForce Center.

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Agriculture, Food & Natural Resources

Cluster Description:Agriculture, food, and natural resources workers produce agricultural goods. This includes food, plants, animals, fabrics, wood, and crops. You might work on a farm, ranch, dairy, orchard, greenhouse, or plant nursery. You could also work in a clinic or laboratory as a scientist or engineer. Some agriculture, food, and naturalresourcesworkersmarket,sell,orfinanceagriculturalgoods.

Ways to Explore this Cluster:Join a group concerned with environmental issues like living or renewable energy.•Job shadow or volunteer at a local animal shelter.•Get involved with the National Future Farmers of America Organization (www.ffa.org) or Foremost •Farms (www.foremostfarms.com).Volunteertocareforflowersatthelocalpark.•Take a class related to:•

Agricultural Business ◦Agriculture Technology ◦Animal Science ◦Natural Resources Management ◦Environmental Science ◦

Do you enjoy working with animals? Are you interested in protecting the environment?

Skills Used in this Cluster:Computer• skills to use related technology and software.Patience and cooperation• skills for working with people and animals.Physical stamina• for heavy lifting, carrying and working with large machinery.Problem-solving• skills to deal with weather-related compli-cations or animal wellness is-sues.Science• skills to know rules and methods for working with natural resources.

ACE Participating Businesses:

Fairmont Veterinary Clinic ◦ Hawkeye Sow Center ◦Martin County Pork Producers ◦ Martin County Soil & Water Conservation District ◦Natural Resources Conservation Service ◦ Rural Advantage ◦WFS ◦

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Agriculture, Food & Natural Resources

Career Title Description Annual Low/Median Wages

Education/Training Job Outlook

Farm and Ranch Animals Farmworkers

Plant and harvest crops, or care for livestock. Responsible for equipment and supplies.

$19,395 / $22,854

On-the-Job TrainingMost learn working on farms. College education optional for

specialized tasks.

Agricultural and Food Science Technicians

Assist with animal breeding and nutri-tion work; under supervision, conduct tests to improve yield and quality of crops or increase the resistance of

plants and animals to disease.

$29,618 / $33,426Associate Degree

Most have 2-year degree in applied science or technology.

Food & Tobacco Roasting, Baking &

Drying Machine Operators

Operate or tend food or tobacco roasting, baking, or drying

equipment, including hearth ovens, kiln driers, roasters, char kilns, and

vacuum drying equipment.

$18,234 / $27,046On-the-Job Training

Most receive short-term training.

Heating & Cooling System Mechanics

Repair and install heating, air conditioning, refrigeration systems,

oil burners, hot-air furnaces and heating stoves.

$41,268 / $48,360

1-2 YearsMost complete 1-2 years at a technical college. Others train

on the job.

Heavy EquipmentMechanics

Adjust and repair cranes, bulldozers, graders and conveyors used in

construction, logging and surface mining.

$34,363 / $45,261

1-2 YearsMost have degree in diesel mechanics or automotive

repair.

Landscapers & Groundskeepers

Plantandtakecareofflowers,shrubs and trees on large

properties,grassyfieldsorprivatelawns. Might also shovel and

remove snow.

$19,187 / $21,410

On-the-Job TrainingMost receive short-term

trainingonthejob.Certificationfor some tasks required.

Mechanical Engineering Technicians

Help engineers to design, test and assess engines, machines or other products. Might do research, read blueprints, build prototypes and

record data.

$35,612 / $43,976

Associate DegreeMost have 2-year degree in

engineering technology. Work experience helps.

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Architecture & Construction

Cluster Description:Architecture and construction workers work on buildings and other structures. This includes highways, bridges, houses, and buildings. You might create the designs or plans for new structures. Or, you might use the plans to build it or manage the workers on the project. Some architecture and construction workers do skilled trades, like carpentry, painting, or plumbing. Or, you might work as a landscaper and take care of flowersandtreesonlargeproperties.

Ways to Explore this Cluster:Do home-repair projects.•Jobshadowatanarchitectureorhomedesignfirm.•Read trade magazines to stay current on major construction projects and trends.•Start a lawn mowing service.•Take a class related to:•

Blueprint Reading ◦Business Computer Applications ◦Computer-Assisted Design (CAD) ◦Geometry ◦Technical Writing ◦

Do you like to create models or make designs? Do you like to work with tools, objects, and numbers?

Skills Used in this Cluster:Customer service • skills are used by independent contrac-tors to relate to clients.Dependability • to be on time and work well with others.Manual dexterity • is neces-sary to fit pieces of varioussizes together and use a vari-ety of tools.Mathematics • is used every day to quickly compute simple calculations and measure-ments.Problem-solving • skills are needed to finish the projecteven when a dilemma occurs.

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Beemer Companies, Inc. ◦ Carpenters - Local 464 ◦Day Plumbing, Heating and Cooling, Inc. ◦ Operating Engineers - Local 49 ◦Pipefitters - Local 455 ◦ Plumbers - Local 34 ◦Sheet Metal Workers - Local 10 ◦ Tech Builders, Inc. ◦

Architecture & Construction



Carpenters

Cut,fitandassemblewoodandothermaterials to construct

buildings,houses,fixturesorequipment.

$30,778 / $37,051

ApprenticeshipMost complete an

apprenticeship or train for 18-22 months at a technical

college.

Cost Estimators

Prepare cost estimates for product manufacturing, construction projects, or

services to aid management in bidding on or determining price

of product or service.

$36,192 / $48,487Bachelor’s Degree

Most have 4-year degree in a relatedfield.

Electricians

Install,maintainorfixelectricalsystemsorfixtures.Ensurework complies with building

codes.

$38,103 / $47,714

ApprenticeshipMost complete 3-5 year

apprenticeship. License required.

Heating & Cooling System Mechanics

Repair and install heating, air conditioning, refrigeration

systems, oil burners, hot-air furnaces and heating stoves.

$41,268 / $48,360


on the job.

Plumbers&Pipefitters

Build, install or repair pipe systems carrying water, steam, air or other liquids or gasses. Systems can be metal, plastic

or ceramic.

$35,164 / $43,454

ApprenticeshipMost complete 4-5 year

apprenticeship. Math skills needed.

Stationary Engineers & Boiler Operators

Operate or maintain stationary engines, boilers, or other mechanical equipment to

provide utilities for buildings or industrial processes such as genera-

tors, motors, turbines, and steam boilers.


Some complete formal job training programs.

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ARTS, A/V TECHNOLOGY & COMMUNICATIONS

Cluster Description:Arts, audio/video technology, and communications workers use creativity and their talents on the job. You might work for an audience as a performer or artist. This includes painters, dancers, sculptors, actors, and singers. Or, you might work behind the scenes to make a performance successful. This includes set design-ers, editors, broadcast technicians, and camera operators. Some audio/video technology and communica-tionsworkershavehigh-profilejobs.Or,youmightuseyourcreativetalentswithtechnologyandworkasananimator,graphicdesigner,orfilmeditor.

Ways to Explore this Cluster:Join a community theatre group.•Seek opportunities at a campus radio station, community cable TV station, web venture or local news-•paper.Volunteer to teach multimedia, art, music or dance classes.•Writeablogorpublishoriginalfiction,drawings,photographyorvideos.•Take a class related to:•

Band, Chorus or Music ◦Creative Writing ◦Interactive Media and Web Design ◦Mass Media Marketing ◦Public Speaking ◦

Is artistic expression important to you? Do you like to work with technology?

Skills Used in this Cluster:Customer service • skills are used by independent contrac-tors to relate to clients.Dependability • to be on time and work well with others.Manual dexterity • is neces-sary to fit pieces of varioussizes together and use a vari-ety of tools.Mathematics • is used every day to quickly compute simple calculations and measure-ments.Problem-solving • skills are needed to finish the projecteven when a dilemma occurs.

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AdMfg ◦ KSUM/KFMC Radio ◦Sauck Media Group ◦ Seifried Portrait Design ◦Sentinel ◦

ARTS, A/V TECHNOLOGY & COMMUNICATIONS



Desktop Publishers

Format typescript and graphicelements using computer

software to produce publication-ready material.

$25,140 / $30,683

2-4 YearsMost receive formal training or earn a degree. Internships or work experience is essential.

Graphic Designers

Create designs using print, electronicandfilmmediaforcommercial or promotional

needs, including packaging, displays or logos.

$28,541 / $31,890

Bachelor’s DegreeMost have degree in art or

design. Portfolio recommended.

Printing Press Operators

Set up or operate printing machines, like offset, letterset or screen printers, to print on

paper or other materials.

$22,183 / $26,152

2-4 YearsMost train through 2-year

associate’s degree or apprenticeship.

Telecommunications Equipment Installers and

Repair

Service or repair telephones and other communication

equipmentinhomesoroffices.$37,284 / $43,268


on the job.

University & College Art, Drama & Music Teachers

Teach courses in drama, music, and the arts includingfineandappliedart,suchas

painting and sculpture, or design and crafts.

$47,755 / $62,602Master’s Degree

Most have degree in education or a subject area.

20

BUSINESS, MANAGEMENT & ADMINISTRATION

Cluster Description:Business, management, and administrative workers give the support needed to make a business run. You might check employee time records or train new employees. Or, you might work as a top executive and provide the overall direction for a company or department. There are many types of jobs at all levels. For example,youmightmanagethefinancialactivitiesofabusiness,directthepublictospecificpeopleorde-partments, or record incoming and outgoing shipments.

Ways to Explore this Cluster:Participate in a school or charity fundraiser.•Join Junior Achievement.•Useschoolassignmentsandextra-curricularactivitiestopracticemanagingworkflowandtimelines.•Start your own business.•Take a class related to:•

Algebra I and II ◦Business Law ◦International Business ◦OfficeProcedures ◦Public Speaking ◦

Do you enjoy working with other people? Do you like to plan and organize activities?

Skills Used in this Cluster:Computer• skills to use rele-vant software and technology.Critical-thinking• skills for problem-solving and generat-ing new ideas.Leadership• skills to be willing to do extra tasks and make timely decisions.Cooperation• skills to work on projects with coworkers.Speaking• skills to effectively relay information to customers and coworkers.

21


City of Fairmont ◦ Federated Rural Electric ◦Preferred Capital Management ◦ Rosen’s Inc. ◦

BUSINESS, MANAGEMENT & ADMINISTRATION



Compensation,Benefits& Job Analysis

Specialists

Conduct programs of compensationandbenefits

and job analysis for employer. Mayspecializeinspecificareas,suchaspositionclassification

and pension programs.


Many have 4-year degree related to human relations

Employment, Recruitment &

Placement Specialists

Recruit and place workers. Might work for a human resources department, headhunterornonprofit

employment service.

$35,316 / $40,494

Bachelor’s DegreeMost have 4-year degree in human development, HR or

business.

Executive Secretaries & Administrative

Assistants

Provide high-level administrative support by

conducting research, preparing reports, handling information

requests, and performing clerical functions such as

preparing correspondence, receiving visitors, arranging

conference calls, and scheduling meetings.

$31,398 / $37,076

On-the-Job TrainingMost advance with previous

experience or knowledge of the company.

Payroll & Timekeeping Clerks

Check employee time records, record payroll data and prepare paychecks. $28,379 / $34,472

VariesMost receive training at a

community or technical college. Others train on the job.

22

EDUCATION & TRAINING

Cluster Description:Educationandtrainingworkersguideandtrainpeople.Asateacher,youcouldinfluenceyounglives.Youcould also support the work of a classroom teacher as a counselor, librarian, or principal. You could coach sports activities or lead community classes. You could also work with adults. For example, you could lead training to employees in a business. Or you could work as a university or college professor for undergradu-ate or graduate students.

Ways to Explore this Cluster:Coach a sports team.•Teach a class at a community center.•Tutor a family member or neighborhood youth.•Volunteer at a library or literacy program.•Take a class related to:•

Child Development ◦Cultural/Ethnic Studies ◦Psychology ◦Safety and First Aid ◦World Languages ◦

Are you outgoing? Do you like being in school?

Skills Used in this Cluster:Creativity and enthusiasm• to keep students interested in materials.Flexibility• to present materi-als and concepts in a variety of ways to different people.Organization• skills to create lesson plans and track stu-dents’ progress and problems.Self-confidence• to stand in front of people and speak.Tolerance• to deal with unmo-tivated or disruptive students and changing educational guidelines.

23


Fairmont Area Schools ◦ Fairmont Community Education & Recreation ◦ISEEK ◦ Minnesota West Community & Technical College - ◦

Canby, Fairmont and JacksonMinnesota West Community & Technical College - Fire ◦Safety

Presentation College - Fairmont ◦

Rasmussen College ◦ Ridgewater College ◦Riverland Community & College ◦

EDUCATION & TRAINING



School CounselorsHelp students with career and

education choices, and personal and social problems

$43,442 / $50,828

Master’s DegreeMost have a master’s degree in counseling or education.

License required.

Fitness Trainers & Aerobics Instructors

Instruct and motivate athletic groups or individuals. Demonstrate techniques and evaluate performance. Exclude

Athletic Trainers.

$17,992 / $20,342

VariesMosthavecertificatesordegrees plus experience.

Preschool Teachers

Teach children from 4-6 years old. Prepare for elementary school or teach

basic science, art, music, math and reading.

$19,887 / $26,973

Bachelor’s DegreeMost have degree in education. Varies by school type. License

required.

University & College Education Teachers

Teach courses pertaining to education, such as counseling,

curriculum, guidance, instruction, teacher education, and teaching English as a second language.

$42,266 / $57,509

Master’s DegreeSome have master’s degree. Others have 8-year doctoral degreeinaspecificfield.

University & College English Language & Literature Teachers

Teach courses in English language and literature, including linguistics and

comparative literature.$45,378 / $60,109

Master’s DegreeSome have master’s degree. Others have 8-year doctoral degreeinaspecificfield.

24

FINANCE

Cluster Description:Financeworkerskeep trackofmoney.Youmightwork infinancialplanning,banking,or insurance.Forexample,youmightprovidefinancialservicestoabusinessorindividual.Or,youcouldmaintainfinancialrecords or give advice to business executives on how to operate their business.

Ways to Explore this Cluster:Join a local investment club.•Manage your own checking account.•Takeaclassinpersonalfinance.•Volunteer or get elected treasurer of an organization.•Take a class related to:•

Accounting ◦Algebra I and II ◦Business Computer Applications ◦International Business ◦Statistics ◦

Do you enjoy working with numbers? Are you comfortable following detailed plans?

Skills Used in this Cluster:Accuracy• skills for dealing with numbers and money.Computer• skills for spread-sheet and financial softwarealongwithstandardofficepro-grams.Discretion• to protect custom-ers’ personal information.Instructional• skills for advis-ing people about investment opportunities.Mathematics• skills to calcu-late transactions.

25


AgStar Financial Services, ACA ◦ Bank Midwest ◦Borchardt Agency, Inc. ◦ First Farmers & Merchants National Bank ◦Peterson Anthony Insurance Agency, Inc. ◦ Profinium Financial ◦State Bank of Fairmont ◦ US Bank ◦Wells Federal Bank ◦

FINANCE



Bill & Account Collectors

Find and notify customers behind on payments. Might receive payments,

prepare statements, start repossession procedures or keep records.

$24,013 / $28,856

On-the-Job TrainingMost receive short-term

training on the job. College courses helpful for

advancement.

Claims Adjusters, Examiners & Investigators

Review settled claims to determine that payments and settlements have

been made in accordance with company practices and procedures.

Report overpayments, underpayments, and other irregularities.

$46,965 / $54,926

VariesMosthavecertificatesordegrees plus experience.

Financial Managers

Plan, direct, and coordinate account-ing, investing, banking, insurance,

securities,andotherfinancialactivitiesofabranch,office,ordepartmentofan

establishment.

$81,190 / $99,339

Bachelor’s Degree Most have 4-year degree or higherinarelatedfieldandextensive work experience.

Insurance AgentsSellpoliciesthatprovidefinancialpro-tection for people or property in case of death, accidents or acts of nature.

$34,462 / $37,410

Bachelor’s DegreeMost have a 4-year degree in

business or economics. License required.

New Accounts Clerks

Interview persons desiring to open bank accounts. Explain banking services available to prospective

customers and assist them in preparing application form.

$27,067 / $29,554

On-the-Job TrainingMost receive short-term train-

ing on the job. College courses helpful for advancement.

26

GOVERNMENT & PUBLIC ADMINISTRATION

Cluster Description:Government and public administration workers help pass and enforce the law. You could work in national, state,orlocalgovernment.Youwillfindalmosteverytypeofoccupationwithinthegovernment,includingsome jobs that are only found within government. For example, you might inspect new or remodeled build-ingsforsafety,helppeoplefilethepaperworkforamarriagelicense,orcreateproposalsforurbandevelop-ment.

Ways to Explore this Cluster:Attend city government meetings.•Join the debate team.•Go on a work-site visit to a local courthouse or city hall.•Run for student government or an organization’s board.•Take a class related to:•

Cultural/Ethnic Studies ◦Economics ◦Political Science ◦U.S. and World History ◦World Languages ◦

Do you like to plan and organize activities? Are rules and laws important to you?

Skills Used in this Cluster:Communication• skills for ef-fective writing, speaking and listening to clients and co-workers.Confidentiality• to guard cli-ents’ and organizations’ pri-vate information.Critical-thinking• skills when making decisions about the lives of others and possible consequences.Organization and time man-•agement skills to complete multiple projects on time.Patience • when working on projects with many obstacles or that take a long time to complete.

27

ACE Participating Businesses:City of Blue Earth ◦ City of Fairmont ◦ City of Winnebago ◦Department of Employment & ◦Economic Development

Fairmont WorkForce Center ◦ Labor Market Information ◦

Martin County ◦ Minnesota Department of ◦Employment & Economic Development

Minnesota National Guard ◦

US Army ◦ US Marines ◦ US Navy ◦

GOVERNMENT & PUBLIC ADMINISTRATION



Administrative Services Managers

Plan, direct, or coordinate supportive services of an

organization, such as recordkeeping, mail

distribution, telephone operator/receptionist, and

otherofficesupportservices.

$58,443 / $68,718

Bachelor’s DegreeMost have 4-year degree or higherinarelatedfieldandextensive work experience.

General & Operations Managers

Plan, direct, or coordinate the operations of companies or organizations. Duties can

include formulating policies, managing daily operations, and planning use of materials and

human resources.

$58,983 / $78,263


Social & Community Service Managers

Plan and direct social service programs for public and private

agencies. Oversee staff, volunteers, budgets and

program activities.

$46,388 / $56,135

Bachelor’s DegreeMost have 4-year degree or higher in counseling, social

work, management or related field.

Tax Examiners, Collectors, and Revenue

Agents

Collect taxes from individuals and businesses. Follow state

and federal laws and regulations to determine

how much is owed.

$37,149 / $50,461

Bachelor’s DegreeMost have degree in

accounting, business or related field.

28

HEALTH SCIENCE

Cluster Description:Health science workers promote health and wellness. They diagnose and treat injuries and disease. As a physician, dentist, or nurse, you could work directly with patients. You could also work in a laboratory to get information used in research or provide administrative support by keeping medical records. Health science jobsarefoundatavarietyofdifferentsites.Forexample,youcouldworkinahospital,office,clinic,ornurs-ing home. Or you could work on a cruise ship, at a sports arena, or within a patient’s home.

Ways to Explore this Cluster:Attend community health events about health issues or ailments.•Join a student organization like Health Occupation Students of America (www.hosa.org).•Participate in the Science Club.•Volunteer at a hospital or nursing home.•Take a class related to:•

Anatomy and Physiology ◦Computer Applications ◦Human Development ◦Safety and First Aid/CPR ◦World Languages ◦

Can you work fast in an emergency? Do you enjoy helping people?

Skills Used in this Cluster:Computer and technical• skills to use office, lab andmedical equipment, like X-ray machines.Detail orientation• to notice small changes in patients’ symptoms or data records.Organization skills• to man-age multiple projects and scheduled appointments. Physical stamina• to stand for long periods of time and lift equipment and/or patients.Speaking and listening• skills to make sure patients under-stand treatments and medical concepts.

29


Anytime Fitness ◦ Associate Optometry, P.A. ◦Burtis Chiropractic Center ◦ Carlson Dental Office ◦Center For Specialty Care ◦ Fairmont Chiropractic and Acupuncture Health Care, Ltd. ◦Fairmont Medical Center - Mayo Health System ◦ Lakeview Methodist Health Care Center ◦Joseph E. Switras, Ph.D, P.A. ◦

HEALTH SCIENCE



Dental Hygienists

Clean teeth and look for signs of oral disease. Might instruct

patients in tooth care, take X-rays andapplyfluorideorsealants.

$61,784 / $69,190

Associate DegreeMost have 2-year degree.

Some have bachelor’s degree. License required.

Dietitians and Nutritionists

Plan diets and educate people about nutrition. Might supervise food preparation for individuals,

hospitals, schools or other facilities.

$44,098 / $49,364

Bachelor’s DegreeMost have degree in nutrition or food services management.

License required.

Medical & Clinical Laboratory

Technologists

Perform complex medical laboratory tests for diagnosis, treatment and prevention of

disease. Might train or supervise staff.


Most have degree in medical technology or life sciences.

Pharmacists

Mix and dispense medications following prescriptions issued by physicians, dentists or other

authorized medical practitioners.

$109,916 / $119,755

Professional DegreeMost have bachelor’s and

complete a 4-year pharmacy program. License required.

Physical Therapists

Assess and plan rehabilitative programs that improve

mobility, relieve pain, and decrease deformity of patients

with disease or injury.

$61,271 / $68,421

DoctorateIndustry shifted from master’s

degree to requiring 8-year Ph.D. Licensed required.

Physician Assistants

Care for patients under supervision of a physician. Might give physicals,

collect patient histories, counsel pa-tients or prescribe medications.

$72,987 / $81,051

Professional DegreeMost have bachelor’s and

complete a 2-year PA program. License required.

Registered Nurses

Assess patient health and care for ill or injured patients. Might

advise patients on care management.

$52,552 / $62,101

2-4 YearsMost have associate or

bachelor’s degree. License required.

30

HOSPITALITY & TOURISM

Cluster Description:Hospitality and tourism workers help people enjoy vacations and entertainment activities. You might work at a restaurant, resort, sports arena, theme park, museum, or hotel. For example, you might manage opera-tions of a college cafeteria, guide high school students on a trip to Spain, or rent equipment at a recreation center.

Ways to Explore this Cluster:Help plan an event like a dance or charity event.•Plan a family vacation.•Plan and cook meals for family or neighborhood events.•Take a part-time job in a restaurant, amusement center or hotel.•Take a class related to:•

Family and Consumer Sciences ◦Geography ◦International Business ◦Marketing ◦OfficeProcedures ◦

Have you worked in a restaurant? Do you like to plan family recreational activities?

Skills Used in this Cluster:Customer service• skills to deal effectively and courte-ously with the public.Flexibility• to handle unex-pected and hectic situations.Memorization• skills for re-membering orders, tables and customers.Patience• to satisfy custom-ers’ expectations, particularly those establishments depen-dent on repeat business.Physical stamina• to lift plat-ters of food or cooking pots and stand for long periods of time.

31


Comfort Inn ◦ Fairmont Convention & Visitors Bureau ◦Hampton Inn ◦ Holiday Inn ◦Perkins Restaurant ◦ Super 8 ◦

HOSPITALITY & TOURISM



Food Service Managers

Plan, direct, or coordinate activities of an organization or department that serves food

and beverages.

$31,472 / $37,626

VariesSome complete 2-4 month program at a community or

technical college. Work experience necessary.

Hotel, Motel, & Resort Desk Clerks

Accommodate patrons by registering and assigning rooms, transmitting and

receiving messages, keeping records of accounts and collecting payments from

departing guests.


Most receive short-term training.

Meat, Poultry, & Fish Cutters & Trimmers

Use hand tools to perform routine cutting and trimming of

meat,poultry,andfish.$19,999 / $22,573

On-the-Job TrainingMost receive 1 month to 2

years training.

Restaurant Cooks

Prepare, cook and present food according to recipes in

restaurants, hotels and institutions.

$18,296 / $20,7431-2 Years

Some train on the job or attend short-term program.

Waiters and Waitresses

Serve food and beverages to customers at tables or

counters. Take orders and make out checks. Might set or

clear tables.

$16,563 / $23,166

On-the-Job TrainingMost learn on the job. Upscale restaurants require previous

experience.

32

HUMAN SERVICES

Cluster Description:Human services workers help individual and families meet their personal needs. You might work in a gov-ernmentoffice,hospital,nonprofitagency,nursinghome,spa,hotel,orschool.Forexample,youmighthelpstudents with career and education choices at a high school, cut and color hair in a salon, or manage funeral services at a funeral home.

Ways to Explore this Cluster:Coordinate a school wide food and/or clothing drive.•Participate in Family, Career, and Community Leaders of America (FCCLA).•Internorvolunteerwithanonprofitprogramthatdealswithissuesmeaningfultoyou,likeanimalwel-•fare, poverty, the environment, children or veterans’ issues. Take a class related to:•

Ethnic and Gender Studies ◦Computer Applications ◦Life Skills ◦Psychology ◦World Languages ◦

Are you a good listener? Have you planned programs for school or community organizations?

Skills Used in this Cluster:Confidentiality• to guard cli-ents’ private information.Critical-thinking• skills for making on-the-spot judgments in stressful situations.Physical stamina• to stand for long periods of time or endure long, stressful work shifts.Problem sensitivity• to relate and react appropriately to cli-ents issues.Time management• skills to adequately provide services to the public within time con-straints.

33


ARC Southwest Minnesota ◦ Aspire Salon & Spa ◦Community Options and Resources (COR) ◦ Grace Lutheran Church ◦Habilitative Services, Inc. ◦ Human Services of Faribault and Martin Counties ◦Lakeview Funeral Home ◦ Minnesota Valley Action Council ◦MRCI - Fairmont ◦ REM Heartland, Inc. ◦SMILES-Center For Independent Living ◦ STEP, Inc. ◦Vocational Rehabilitation ◦

HUMAN SERVICES



Medical & Public Health Social Workers

Provide persons, families, or vulnerable populations with the

psychosocial support needed to cope with chronic, acute, or terminal illnesses, such as Alzheimer’s,

cancer, or AIDS.

$39,366 / $46,108

Bachelor’s DegreeMost have a 4-year BSW

degree. Others have a 6-year MSW degree. License

required.

Substance Abuse & Behavioral Disorder

Counselors

Counsel and advise individuals with alcohol, tobacco, drug, or other

problems, such as gambling and eating disorders. May counsel

individuals, families, or groups or engage in prevention programs.

$15,163 / $18,366

Master’s DegreeMaster’s degree in

mental health counseling and license required.

Mental Health & Substance Abuse

Social Workers

Assess and treat individuals with mental, emotional, or substance abuse problems, including abuse of alcohol,

tobacco, and/or other drugs.

$42,642 / $50,398

Bachelor’s DegreeMost have a 4-year BSW

degree. Others have a 6-year MSW degree. License

required.

Hairstylists & Cosmetologists

Cut, shampoo, color and style hair. Might apply makeup, remove body hair

or give nail- and skin-care services.$20,753 / $27,548

1-2 YearsMost complete a 9-24-month

training program. License required.

Child Care Workers

Supervise, care for and teach groups of young children. Oversee their

personal care, safety, learning and play activities.

$15,783 / $16,964

VariesSome train on the job.

Formal education becoming standard.

34

INFORMATION TECHNOLOGY

Cluster Description:Informationtechnologyworkersareinagrowingandalwayschangingfield.Youmightworkwithcomputerhardware, software, multimedia, or network systems. You might design new computer equipment or work on a new computer game. Some information technology workers support and manage computer hardware. For example, you might make sure the networks are working or manage a network that links people across theworld.Or,youmightsupportothersandanswerquestionsaboutspecificsoftwareorhardware.

Ways to Explore this Cluster:Build or modify a personal computer and install software.•Create your own Web page with a database and interactive elements.•Set up a LAN (local area network) for gaming. •Volunteerorinternastechnicalsupportforanonprofitorcommunityagency.•Take a class related to:•

Algebra I and II ◦Electronics ◦Multimedia ◦Technical Writing ◦Trigonometry ◦

Do you learn new computer programs quickly? Are you organized and able to focus on details?

Skills Used in this Cluster:Cooperation • skills to work with clients and co-workers on proj-ects.Detail orientation • to pay atten-tion tospecificaspectsofsys-tems, programs or machines.Instructional • skills to teach others about computers or ex-plain programs.Manual dexterity • for techni-cians who take machines apart andfixthem.Writing skills • to create reports and documentation.

35


BEVCOMM, Inc. ◦ Frontier Communication Solutions ◦Midwest IT Systems, Inc. ◦

INFORMATION TECHNOLOGY



Applications Computer Software Engineers

Develop, create, and modify general computer applications software or

specialized utility programs. Analyze user needs and develop software

solutions. Design software or customize software for client use

with the aim of optimizing operational efficiency.Mayanalyzeanddesign

databases.

$53,775 / $64,954

Bachelor’s DegreeMost have degree in computer

or software engineering, or computer science.

Computer Support Specialists

Provide technical assistance or training to computer users with

hardware or software problems. Might help in person or over the phone.

$32,661 / $39,728

2-4 YearsMost have specialized

certificationordegreeinrelatedfield.

Database Administrators

Coordinate changes to computer databases or code. Might plan,

coordinate and implement security measures to safeguard databases.

$45,644 / $55,326

2-4 YearsMost have degree in

software, computer or information science.

Certificationrecommended.

Network Systems & Data Communications

Analysts

Design, test and evaluate network systems. Recommend hardware and

software. Might supervise programmers.


Most have degree in computer or information science.

36

LAW, PUBLIC SAFETY & SECURITY

Cluster Description:Law, public safety, corrections, and security workers are found in a variety of settings. For example, you mightguardthepublicandenforcethelawasapoliceofficerorsecurityguard.Or,youmightprovidefireprotectionasafirefighter.Otherworkersprovidelegalservicestopeoplewhocommitcrimes.Forexample,you might monitor activities within a prison, advise clients of their legal rights, or research legal procedures to support court cases.

Ways to Explore this Cluster:Attend court hearings and other public legal proceedings. •Take drivers education and keep a clean driving record.•Intern or volunteer with a program that works with at-risk youth or ex-offenders and their families.•Jobshadowatalawfirmtoasklawyersorparalegalsabouttheircareers.•Take a class related to:•

Cultural/Ethnic Studies ◦Debate ◦Psychology ◦Safety and First Aid ◦U.S. Government ◦

Can you work with various kinds of people? Can you work in the face of danger?

Skills Used in this Cluster:Patience • when working with clients who are angry, scared, frustrated or stressed.Confidentiality• to guard cli-ents’ private information.Critical-thinking • skills when making decisions about the lives of others and possible consequences.Selective attention • to notice details about people and situ-ations.Problem-solving • skills to know rules and methods to analyze data.

37


City of Fairmont Police Department ◦ Erickson, Zierke, Kuderer & Madsen, PA ◦Martin County District Court ◦ Martin County Sheriffs Department ◦Minnesota Department of Corrections ◦ Office of Public Defender/Fifth Judicial District ◦

LAW, PUBLIC SAFETY & SECURITY



CorrectionalOfficers

Keep order and enforce rules in city, county and federal jails and prisons by

monitoring the activities and work assignments of inmates.

$35,742 / $42,218

On-the-Job TrainingMust have high school diploma and pass written, physical, drug

and background exams.

ProbationOfficersProvide social services to assist in

rehabilitation of law offenders in cus-tody or on probation or parole.


Most also complete state or federal training.

Firefighters

Controlandputoutfiresorrespondwhere life, property or the environment

are at risk. Might provide medical or search-and-rescue services.

$22,969 / $25,083

On-the-Job TrainingMost train for several weeks. Must also pass written and

physical tests.

Legal Secretaries

Perform secretarial duties utilizing legal terminology, procedures, and

documents. Prepare legal papers and correspondence, such as summonses, complaints, motions, and subpoenas.

$28,573 / $35,4041-2 Years

Some train on the job or have 2-year degree.

Paralegals and Legal Assistants

Research legal precedents, investigate facts or prepare legal documents for lawyers. Conduct research to support

cases.

$30,077 / $34,474

Associate DegreeMost have 2-year degree.

Advancement requires 4-year degree.Certificationrequired.

38

MANUFACTURING

Cluster Description:Manufacturing workers work with products and equipment. You might design a new product, decide how the product will be made, or make the product. You might work on cars, computers, appliances, airplanes, or electronic devices. Other manufacturing workers install or repair products. For example, you might install refrigerators or washers, repair plumping in commercial buildings, or diagnose engine problems in cars and trucks.

Ways to Explore this Cluster:Call a company to ask for a job-site visit or to job shadow.•Do basic repairs on home and electronic appliances.•Explore the requirements to enter an apprenticeship.•Participate in Skills USA.•Take a class related to:•

Applied Math ◦Blueprint Reading ◦Industrial Technology ◦Physics ◦Technical Writing ◦

Are you good with working with your hands? Can you explain to others how a machine works?

Skills Used in this Cluster:Dependability • to do qual-ity work and be committed to each task within a project.Flexibility • to be willing to learn new technology and produc-tion techniques.Manual dexterity • to complete labor by hand.Problem-solving • skills to troubleshoot when machinery breaksdownorfindasolutionwhen a job runs longer than expected.Visual color discrimination •for jobs that involve color-coded electric wires or printing documents.

39


3M ◦ Aerospace Systems Nortech ◦ Art’s Way Manufacturing Co., Inc. ◦Avery Weigh-Tronix ◦ Continental Carbonic Products, Inc. ◦ Easy Automation/Easy Energy ◦GKN ◦ Hancor - ADS ◦ Kahler Automation Corp. ◦Kerry Ingredients & Flavours ◦ Redi-Haul Trailers, Inc. ◦ Winnebago Manufacturing Co. ◦

Zierke Built Manufacturing, Inc. ◦

MANUFACTURING



Chemical Plant & System Operators

Control or operate an entire chemical process or system of machines. $37,572 / $43,409

1-2 YearsMost complete training 1-2

years.

Computer, Automated Teller&OfficeMachine

Repairers

Repair, maintain, or install computers, word processing systems, automated tellermachines,andelectronicoffice

machines, such as duplicating and fax machines.

$31,410 / $35,566

1-2 YearsMost complete training in about 9-18 months. Some complete

an apprenticeship.

Industrial Machinery Mechanics

Repair, install, adjust or maintain machinery for industrial, printing or

other companies.$36,885 / $41,397


apprenticeship lasting 3-4 years. Others train on the job.

Machinists

Set up and operate machine tools to produce precision parts and

instruments. Might fabricate, modify or repair mechanical instruments.

$31,548 / $36,661


apprenticeship lasting 3-4 years.

Welders & Solderers

Weld metal parts of pipelines, cars, boilers, ships, sheet metal pieces or

other products. Might cut or trim metal objects to correct dimensions.

$23,489 / $30,051

1-2 YearsMost complete training in about 9-18 months. Some complete

an apprenticeship.

40

MARKETING, SALES & SERVICE

Cluster Description:Marketing, sales, and service workers help businesses sell products. You might advertise and promote products so customers want to buy them. Or, you might sell products and services to customers. For ex-ample,youmightdevelopamarketingplanforasmallstart-upcompany;sellfurniture;ormeasureandfitlenses and frames for eyeglass customers.

Ways to Explore this Cluster:Designpromotionalmaterials(brochures,flyers,etc.)foralocalbusiness.•Getapart-timejobinaretailstore,realestateofficeorinpromotions.•Participate in Junior Achievement.•Volunteerasaneventplannerorfundraiserforanonprofitorcommunitygroup.•Take a class related to:•

Accounting ◦Entrepreneurship ◦International Marketing ◦Multimedia ◦Psychology ◦

Are you friendly and outgoing? Do you like to do public speaking or debating?

Skills Used in this Cluster:Flexibility • to accept times when sales and money are low.Initiative • to continually strive tofindnewcustomers.Organization • skills to keep track of sales records, market trendsandcustomerfiles.Self-confidence• to face rejec-tion and keep a positive atti-tude.Speaking • skills to explain the benefitsofaproductorserviceto potential customers.

41


CENTURY 21 Northland Realty ◦ Dan’s Appliance and TV ◦Fairmont Area Chamber of Commerce ◦ Fairmont Convention & Visitors Bureau ◦Hawkins Chevrolet Cadillac ◦ Marketlink, Inc. ◦Martin County Economic Development Authority ◦ Minnesota Small Business Development Center - Region 9 ◦Shopko ◦ State Farm Insurance - Mark Fujan ◦Walgreens ◦

MARKETING, SALES & SERVICE



Wholesale & Manufacturing Sales

Representatives

Sell goods for wholesalers or manufacturers to businesses or

groups of individuals. Work requires substantial knowledge of items sold.

$43,883 / $52,596

Less Than 1 YearMost learn on the job. Some

complete program at a community or technical

college.

Marketing Managers

Develop marketing plans to sell products or services. Research and analyze audiences and products.

Create budgets and supervise staff.

$63,141 / $81,038


Market Research Analysts

Research market conditions in local, regional, or national areas to

determine potential sales of a product or service. May gather information on

competitors, prices, sales, and methods of marketing and distribution.

$44,574 / $56,519

Bachelor’s DegreeMost have degree in

business management, marketing or sales.

Sales Managers

Direct distribution or movement of a product or service to the customer.

Coordinate sales distribution by establishing sales territories, quotas,

and goals and establish training programs for sales representatives.

$49,718 / $65,522


42

SCIENCE, TECHNOLOGY, ENGINEERING & MATHEMATICS

Cluster Description:Science, technology,engineering,andmathematicsworkersdoscientificresearch in laboratoriesor thefield.Othersplanordesignproductsandsystems.Or,youmightsupportscientists,mathematicians,oren-gineers as they do their work. For example, you might oversee the construction of roads, develop systems to prevent diseases, or help engineers do research and read blueprints.

Ways to Explore this Cluster:Do an informational interview with an engineer or someone who works in a lab.•Join a science, biology, technology, electronics or math club. •Learncomputerapplicationsortechnologyrelatedtothefield,likeCAD.•Teach youth at a technology or science camp or after-school program.•Take a class related to:•

Blueprint Reading ◦Calculus ◦Physics ◦Technical Writing ◦Trigonometry ◦

Do you want to know how things work? Do you like to prepare projects for science fairs?

Skills Used in this Cluster:Analytical • skills to research a project and reach precise con-clusions.Communication and coop-•eration skills to interact with project partners.Computer • capabilities to stay current on appropriate soft-ware and equipment. Creative • abilities to solve problems and draft new ideas and designs.Leadership • skills to lead proj-ects and work well with cus-tomers.

43


BioFuel Energy, LLC ◦ Bolton and Menk, Inc. ◦CHS, Inc. ◦ CornPlus ◦Iberdrola Renewables ◦ Martin County Highway Department ◦Minnesota Department of Natural Resources ◦ Valero Renewables - Welcome ◦

SCIENCE, TECHNOLOGY, ENGINEERING & MATHEMATICS



Engineering Managers

Plan, direct, or coordinate activities in suchfieldsasarchitectureandengineering or research and developmentinthesefields.


Most have 4-year degree or higher, plus work experience.

Electronics EngineersDesign and oversee creation or

installation of electronic items for commercial,militaryorscientificuses.


Most have degree in electrical engineering. License required.

Civil Engineers

Design and oversee construction and maintenance of structures like roads,

railroads, power plants, or water systems.

$64,730 / $81,563

Bachelor’s DegreeMost have 4-year degree in civil engineering. License

required.

Industrial Engineering Technicians

May study and record time, motion, method, and speed involved in

performance of production, maintenance, clerical, and other

worker operations for such purposes as establishing standard production ratesorimprovingefficiency,usually

under the direction of engineering staff.

$37,606 / $46,864

Associate DegreeMost have 2-year degree in

engineering technology. Work experience helps.

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TRANSPORTATION, DISTRIBUTION & LOGISTICS

Cluster Description:Transportation, distribution, and logistics workers move people and products by road, air, rail, and water. You might work as a driver, pilot, engineer, or captain. You might repair or maintain the vehicles, trains, planes, and ships that move people and products. Or, you might work behind the scenes to make sure the products and people get to the right place on time.

Ways to Explore this Cluster:Join a local investment club.•Manage your own checking account.•Takeaclassinpersonalfinance.•Volunteer or get elected treasurer of an organization.•Take a class related to:•

Industrial Technology ◦Introduction to Business ◦Physics ◦Safety and First Aid ◦Trigonometry ◦

Do you have good eyesight and quick reflexes? Do you repair family’s and friends’ vehicles?

Skills Used in this Cluster:Customer service • skills to deal with people and be suc-cessful if self-employed.Dependability • to keep on schedule and be responsible for the safety of others.Manual dexterity • to manipu-late equipment controls.Physical stamina • to lift and carry items for transport or to be able to sit for long periods.Selective attention • to stay alert despite potential distrac-tions.

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Baarts Trucking, Inc. ◦ Fareway Foods Stores, Inc. ◦Garry’s Body Shop ◦ Hawkeye Foodservice Distribution, Inc. ◦Hy-Vee Foods ◦ Wal-Mart #3806 ◦Westman Freightliner ◦

TRANSPORTATION, DISTRIBUTION & LOGISTICS



Bus & Truck Mechanics & Diesel Engine

Specialists

Adjust, repair and overhaul trucks, buses and all types of diesel engines. $31,984 / $37,637

1-2 YearsMost have degree in diesel mechanics or automotive

repair.

Transportation, Storage & Distribution Managers

Direct pickup, transport and storage of goods for airlines, trucking companies, railroads and others. Also coordinate

warehouse activities.

$43,941 / $58,312

VariesDegree needed for

advancement. Industry knowledge required.

Heavy & Tractor-Trailer Truck Drivers

Drive a truck (at least 3 tons) or tractor-trailer combination truck.

Transport and deliver goods, livestock or materials.

$30,088 / $36,417

Less Than 1 YearMost receive training for 4-8 months. Commercial driver’s

license required.

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GREEN CAREERS IN MINNESOTA

RENEWABLE ENERGY is the strongest area of economic opportunity for Minnesota. This opportunitywillcreategreenjobsboththroughtheexpansionofexistingfirms,aswellasattrac-tionoffirmslookingtoservetheregion.Thesubcategoriesofwind,solarandbiofuelscandeliverthe largest number of green jobs.

Current: 9,477 green jobs in this sector »2020 projection: 12,238 - 18,458 jobs »

GREEN PRODUCTS offers the second strongest opportunity for the state of Minnesota. While Minnesotamayattractsomeadditionalfirmsinthiscategory,muchoftheopportunityforgreenjobsgrowthinthissectorwillcomefromexistingfirmstakingadvantageofgrowinggreenmar-kets. In particular Green Building Products and Green Transportation (transit) products demon-strate the clearest opportunities.


GREEN SERVICES cover a broad range of industries including energy auditors, green product distributors and solar installers. Minnesota must insure that as an action plan is implemented and existing policies are adopted, a workforce is readily available. For example, several states began tofocusonencouragingresidentialsolaronlytofindoutthattherewasaverylimitednumberofsolar installers. Minnesota’s workforce, education, training, economic, and environmental groups have begun to work together to align their efforts for green job opportunities centered on enhanc-ingtheenergyefficiencyofbuildingsandperformingretrofits.


ENVIRONMENTAL CONSERVATION had positive growth numbers. Minnesota is widely recognized for its commitment to environmental conservation. The question is how this behavior translates into economic opportunity for the state.


Source: The Green Jobs Task Force, www.mngreenjobs.com

Green careers and job opportunities include positions with environmentally-friendly and socially responsible employers, and jobs that work with energy conservation, and environmental advocacy.

Example of Jobs That Will Build the Green U.S. Economy & Fight Global Warming

BuildingRetrofittingElectricians, Heating/Air Conditioning Installers, Carpen-ters, Construction Equipment Operators, Roofers, Insu-lation Workers, Carpenter Helpers, Industrial Truck Driv-ers, Construction Managers, Building Inspectors

Mass TransitCivil Engineers, Rail Track Layers, Electricians, Weld-ers, Metal Fabricators, Engine Assemblers, Production Helpers, Bus Drivers, First-Line Transportation Supervi-sors, Dispatchers

Energy-EfficientAutomobilesComputer Software Engineers, Electrical Engineers, En-gineering Technicians, Welders, Transportation Equip-ment Painters, Metal Fabricators, Computer-Controlled Machine Operators, Engine Assemblers, Production Helpers, Operations Managers

Wind PowerEnvironmental Engineers, Iron and Steel Workers, Mill-wrights, Sheet Metal Workers, Machinists, Electrical Equipment Assemblers, Construction Equipment Opera-tors, Industrial Truck Drivers, Industrial Production Man-agers, First-Line Production Supervisors

Solar PowerElectrical Engineers, Electricians, Industrial Machinery Mechanics, Welders, Metal Fabricators, Electrical Equip-ment Assemblers, Construction Equipment Operators, Installation Helpers, Laborers, Construction Managers

Cellulosic BiofuelsChemical Engineers, Chemists, Chemical Equipment Operators, Chemical Technicians, Mixing and Blend-ing Machine Operators, Agricultural Workers, Industrial Truck Drivers, Farm Product Purchasers, Agricultural and Forestry Supervisors, Agricultural Inspectors

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EXPLORING GREEN CAREERSISEEK’s Green Careers »www.iseek.org/careers/green.htmlFind out what “green careers” are, the skills and knowledge needed to prepare for them, and the existing career paths most impacted.

New Opportunities in the Green Economy »http://www.positivelyminnesota.com/Data_Publications/Economic_Trends_Magazine/March_2009_Edition/New_Opportunities_in_the_Green_Economy.aspxThis article details four industry sectors that are expected to be the main catalyst for creating green jobs in Minnesota in coming years.

Something in the Wind »http://www.positivelyminnesota.com/Data_Publications/Economic_Trends_Magazine/March_2009_Edition/Something_in_the_Wind.aspxPublication explaining how Minnesota’s wind-power industry is among the largest in the country and positioned to generate new jobs.

Putting the Green in Gasoline »http://www.positivelyminnesota.com/Data_Publications/Economic_Trends_Magazine/March_2009_Edition/Putting_the_Green_in_Gasoline.aspxInthisarticle,findouthowMinnesotaisamongthenationalleadersinbiofuelproductionandisexpectingtocontinuetogrowinthatsector.

Help to Shape the World »http://www.positivelyminnesota.com/Data_Publications/Economic_Trends_Magazine/March_2009_Edition/Helping_to_Shape_the_World.aspxThisprofileofMankatogreendesignerEricLennartsondescribeshowhisloveforbuildinganddesignbeganwithasetofLEGOs.

STEM Occupations in Minnesota »http://www.positivelyminnesota.com/Data_Publications/Economic_Trends_Magazine/March_2009_Edition/STEM_Occupations_in_Minnesota.aspxFact sheet detailing the growth of science, technology, engineering and math careers in Minnesota.

Green Jobs Guidebook »http://edf.org/documents/8489_Green%20Jobs%20Guidebook%20FINAL%20with%20cover.pdfThis is a resource for job seekers, students, guidance counselors, career advisors, policy makers and anyone else interested in knowing about the tremendous potential of existing and growing green jobs.

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HIGH-DEMAND CAREERS IN SOUTH CENTRAL MINNESOTA

Career Cluster Career Title Annual Low/Median Wages Education / Training

Agriculture, Food and Natural Resource Agricultural and Food Science Technicians $29,618 / $33,426 Associate degreeAgriculture, Food and Natural Resource Farmworkers, Farm and Ranch Animals $19,395 / $22,854 Less than one yearAgriculture, Food and Natural Resource Food Batchmakers $27,497 / $31,400 On-the-job trainingAgriculture, Food and Natural Resource Farm Equipment Mechanics $34,116 / $38,433 Post secondary voc. trainingArchitecture and Construction Maintenance and Repair Workers, General $29,013 / $34,447 1-2 yearsArchitecture and Construction Stationary Engineers and Boiler Operators $40,510 / $45,752 1-2 yearsArchitecture and Construction Electrical Power-Line Installers and Repairers $50,775 / $58,198 1-2 yearsArts, A/V Technology & Communications Computer Programmers $43,418 / $53,295 Bachelor’s degreeArts, A/V Technology & Communications Job Printers $31,614 / $38,847 1-2 yearsBusiness, Management & Administration Database Administrators $45,644 / $55,326 Bachelor’s degreeBusiness, Management & Administration Computer and Information Systems Managers $70,396 / $88,346 Bachelor’s or higher degreeBusiness, Management & Administration Accountants and Auditors $45,936 / $54,342 Bachelor’s degreeBusiness, Management & Administration Employment, Recruitment & Placement Spec. $35,316 / $40,494 Bachelor’s degreeEducation and Training Education Administrators, Postsecondary $59,183 / $67,370 Bachelor’s or higher degreeEducation and Training Educ., Vocational, and School Counselors $43,442 / $50,828 Master’s degreeFinance LoanOfficers $47,891 / $60,929 Bachelor’s degreeFinance Tellers $19,443 / $22,482 On-the-job trainingFinance Insurance Sales Agents $34,462 / $37,410 Bachelor’s degreeGovernment and Public Administration Social and Community Service Managers $46,388 / $56,135 Bachelor’s degreeHealth Science Emergency Medical Techs & Paramedics $22,049 / $26,068 Post secondary voc. trainingHealth Science Registered Nurses $52,552 / $62,101 Associate degreeHealth Science Home Health Aides $21,293 / $23,178 On-the-job trainingHealth Science Medical and Health Services Managers $59,847 / $74,035 Bachelor’s or higher degreeHealth Science Medical and Clinical Laboratory Technologists $46,019 / $51,346 Bachelor’s degreeHealth Science Pharmacy Technicians $22,936 / $25,705 Less than one yearHealth Science Dental Hygienists $61,784 / $69,190 Associate degree

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HIGH-DEMAND CAREERS IN SOUTH CENTRAL MINNESOTA

Hospitality and Tourism Cooks, Restaurant $18,296 / $20,743 1-2 yearsHospitality and Tourism Meat, Poultry, and Fish Cutters and Trimmers $19,999 / $22,573 On-the-job trainingHuman Service Child, Family, and School Social Workers $40,314 / $46,834 Bachelor’s degreeHuman Service Medical and Public Health Social Workers $39,366 / $46,108 Bachelor’s degreeHuman Service Mental Hlth./Substance Abuse Social Workers $42,642 / $50,398 Master’s degreeInformation Technology Computer Systems Analysts $44,266 / $53,839 Bachelor’s degreeInformation Technology Network & Computer Systems Administrators $48,636 / $60,559 Bachelor’s degreeInformation Technology Network Systems & Data Comm. Analysts $48,636 / $60,559 Bachelor’s degreeLaw, Public Safety, Corrections, Security CorrectionalOfficersandJailers $35,732 / $42,218 Less than one yearLaw, Public Safety, Corrections, Security Lawyers $50,788 / $60,990 First professional degreeLaw, Public Safety, Corrections, Security PoliceandSheriff’sPatrolOfficers $39,067 / $48,097 1-2 yearsManufacturing Career Industrial Machinery Mechanics $36,885 / $41,397 1-2 yearsManufacturing Career Industrial Engineering Technicians $37,606 / $46,864 Associate degreeManufacturing Career Computer-Controlled Machine Tool Operators $28,391 / $32,142 1-2 yearsManufacturing Career Power Plant Operators $45,901 / $51,687 Less than one yearManufacturing Career Electrical and Electronics Repairers $31,484 / $37,719 Post secondary voc. trainingMarketing Sales and Service Sales Representatives $43,883 / $52,596 Less than one yearMarketing Sales and Service Hotel, Motel, and Resort Desk Clerks $17,517 / $18,912 On-the-job trainingScience, Technology, Engineering, Math Electrical Engineers $55,199 / $63,479 Bachelor’s degreeScience, Technology, Engineering, Math Industrial Engineers $52,480 / $64,650 Bachelor’s degreeScience, Technology, Engineering, Math Mechanical Engineers $53,957 / $62,795 Bachelor’s degreeScience, Technology, Engineering, Math Chemists $55,844 / $63,744 Bachelor’s degreeTransportation, Distribution & Logistics Truck Drivers, Heavy and Tractor-Trailer $30,088 / $36,417 Less than one yearTransportation, Distribution & Logistics Bus & Truck Mechanics & Diesel Engine Spec. $31,984 / $37,637 Post secondary voc. training

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EDUCATION PLANNING & COLLEGE RESOURCESGet Ready for College — www.getreadyforcollege.org »Aneasy-to-usewebsitefromtheMinnesotaOfficeofHigherEducationthathelpsstudentswithpreparation,selectionandfinancialaid.

I Make It Happen — www.imakeithappen.org »This website aims to provide support and information to Minnesota students that will help them prepare for and pursue college.

ISEEK — www.iseek.org »This website’s “Plan Your Education” section has information on all colleges and academic and job-training programs in Minnesota, including informationonadmissionprocessesandfinancialaid.

CareerOneStop — www.CareerOneStop.org »In the “Education + Training” section there is a Scholarship Search tool, a Financial Aid Advisor and information about colleges and job training programs across the country.

FastWeb — www.fastweb.com »This is the Internet’s leading scholarship search service, helping students make the decisions that shape their lives.

Free Application for Federal Student Aid — www.fafsa.ed.gov »TheFAFSAisthemostimportantwaytoapplyforfinancialaid.MostschoolsusetheFAFSAtodeterminetheamountoffinancialaidastudentis eligible to receive and the amount they and their family are expected to contribute from savings or income.

Minnesota State Colleges and Universities — www.mnscu.edu »This is the largest provider of higher education in Minnesota with its 32 institutions, including 25 two-year colleges and seven state universities. The website has information about each campus and all of their two-year, four-year, graduate and job-training programs.

Minnesota Private Colleges Council — www.mnprivatecolleges.org »This group represents 17 private, 4-year liberal arts colleges in the state.

Minnesota Career College Association — www.mncareercolleges.org »This association represents private post-secondary schools and colleges, which are accredited by an accrediting agency recognized by the United States Department of Education.

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SOUTH CENTRAL MINNESOTA COLLEGE RESOURCESIowa Lakes Community College »www.iowalakes.edu 712 362-2604 or 1-800-521-5054

Algona, Emmetsburg, Estherville, Spencer, Spirit Lake ◦

Minnesota State College - Southeast Technical »www.southeastmn.edu 507-453-2785

Winona ◦

Minnesota State University »www.mnsu.edu507-389-1822

Mankato ◦

Minnesota West Community & Technical College »www.mnwest.edu507-825-6800

Canby, Fairmont and Jackson ◦

Presentation College »www.presentation.edu/fairmont507-235-4658

Fairmont ◦

Rasmussen College »www.rasmussen.edu 888-5-RASMUSSEN

Brooklyn Park, Eagan, Eden Prairie, Mankato, Moorhead, St. ◦Cloud, Woodbury

Ridgewater College »www.ridgewater.edu320-222-5200

Willmar ◦

Riverland Community College »www.riverland.edu 507-433-0820

Albert Lea, Austin, Owatonna ◦

Rochester Community and Technical College »www.rctc.edu 507-285-7265

Rochester ◦

South Central College »www.southcentral.edu507-389-7220

Faribault, North Mankato ◦

Southwest Minnesota State University »www.southwestmsu.edu 507-537-6286

Marshall ◦

University of Minnesota »www.umn.edu612-625-5000

Twin Cities, Crookston, Duluth, Morris, Rochester ◦

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CAREER EXPLORATION & JOB SEARCH RESOURCESISEEK — www.iseek.org »The “Explore Careers” and “Find a Job” sections have Minnesota career information, including local salaries, skills and training requirements. Use the career assessments to match your strengths to occupations.

ISEEK Parent Portal — www.iseek.org/parents/index.html »This section of ISEEK helps parents, guardians and mentors to take an active role in helping teens explore the worlds of education and work, the career development process, and today’s labor market.

DEED’s Creative Job Search — http://www.positivelyminnesota.com/Data_Publications/Publications/All_Other_DEED_Publications/ »Creative_Job_Search_Guide.aspxThe online version of the publication teaches the skills needed to have a successful job search, including resume writing, interviewing and In-ternet jobs search techniques.

eFolio — www.efoliomn.com »This online portfolio is designed to help you showcase your education, career and personal achievements. All Minnesota residents can use eFolio to reach their academic, career and educational goals free of charge.

Career Voyages — www.careervoyages.gov »This website provides information on high-growth, high-demand careers along with the skills and education needed to attain those occupations. The site is spon-sored by U.S. Department of Labor.

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CAREER EXPLORATION & JOB SEARCH RESOURCESMinnesota WorkForce Centers — http://www.positivelyminnesota.com/JobSeekers/WorkForce_Centers/index.aspx »StaffatWorkForceCentershelppeoplegetgoodjobsandfindcareerdirection.TheWorkForceCentersofferseveralinterestandskillsassess-ments, job placement assistance and job search workshops. Fairmont’s WorkForce Center can be contacted at 507-235-5518.

Minnesota Department of Employment and Economic Development — http://www.positivelyminnesota.com/Data_Publications/Data/ »DEED collects employment projection, salary and other information needed to gauge the supply and demand of workers and skills needed in a specificcareercluster.

DEED’s Youth Employment Program — http://www.positivelyminnesota.com/JobSeekers/Find_a_Job/Employment_for_At-Risk_ »Youth/Minnesota_Youth_Program.aspx This program offers job and training services for economically disadvantaged and at-risk youth age 14-24. Access services through your local WorkForce Center by calling 888-GET-JOBS.

CareerOneStop — www.CareerOneStop.org »The“ExploreCareers,”“Salary+Benefits”and“Resume+Interviews”sectionshavenationalandregionaloccupationinformation,andonlinecareertoolsincludingthe“SkillsProfiler”and“EmployabilityCheck-Up”tools.ThesiteissponsoredbyU.S.DepartmentofLabor.

Occupational Outlook Handbook — www.bls.gov/oco »The website highlights national trends in careers, the kind of skills you need and economic factors related to the career. The site is sponsored by U.S. Department of Labor.

ASVAB Career Exploration Program Overview Guide - www.asvabprogram.com »

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MINNESOTA JOB BANKS & EMPLOYMENT WEBSITESMinnesotaWorks Job Bank »www.MinnesotaWorks.net

State of Minnesota Government Job Openings »www.careers.state.mn.us

Minnesota Merit System »www.dhs.state.mn.us/agencywd/jobs/merit

Civil service examinations for employment in the social ◦services and human services agencies in 70 of Minnesota’s 87 counties.

Fairmont Sentinel’s Jobs Section »http://jobs.fairmontsentinel.com

Star Tribune’s Jobs Section »www.startribune.com/jobs

St. Paul Pioneer Press’ Employment Section »www.twincities.com/jobs

MinnesotaCouncilofNonprofitsJobBoard »www.mncn.org/jobs/default.asp

Upper Midwest Higher Education Recruitment »Consortiumwww.uppermidwestherc.org

Diversity Minnesota »http://diversityminnesota.com

MinnesotaJobs.com »http://minnesotajobs.com

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NATIONAL JOB BANKS & EMPLOYMENT WEBSITESUSA Jobs »www.usajobs.gov

Non-military jobs within the federal government. ◦

State Job Banks »www.careeronestop.org/JobSearch/COS_jobsites.aspx

National list of job banks. ◦

Hire Vets First »www.hirevetsfirst.gov

Peace Corps »www.peacecorps.gov

Indeed »www.indeed.com

Beehive/Monster Career Center »http://beehive.monster.com

CollegeRecruiter.com »www.collegerecruiter.com

International Jobs »www.intljobs.org

FlipDog »www.flipdog.com

HireMeNow »www.hiremenow.com

JobCentral »www.jobcentral.com

Yahoo! Hot Jobs »http://hotjobs.yahoo.com

CareerBuilder »www.careerbuilder.com

Monster »www.monster.com

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ACE PARTICIPATING COLLEGES

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Minnesota West Community & Technical College - Canby, Fairmont and Jacksonwww.mnwest.edu

Career Area:◊ High EducationEducational Opportunities Available2010 Event Showcases:◊Educational opportunities available at Minnesota West

Presentation Collegewww.presentation.edu/fairmont

Career Area:◊ Higher EducationBusiness, Health Science and Psychology2010 Event Showcases:◊Business, Biology, Medical Assisting, Nursing, Radiologic Technology, Psychology, and Surgical Technology

Rasmussen Collegewww.rasmussen.edu

Career Area:◊ Higher EducationEducational Opportunities Available2010 Event Showcases:◊Educational opportunities at Rasmussen College

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ACE PARTICIPATING COLLEGES

Ridgewater Collegewww.ridgewater.edu

Career Area:◊ High EducationEducational Opportunities Available2010 Event Showcases:◊Educational opportunities at Ridgewater College

Riverland Community College - Austin, Albert Lea and Owatonnawww.riverland.edu

Career Area:◊ Higher EducationEducational Opportunities Available2010 Event Showcases:◊Riverland Community College a Community & technical College with over 50 career programs and generals to transfer.

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ACE PARTICIPATING BUSINESSES

3M — Techwww.3m.com

Ad Mfg, Inc. — Commercewww.admfg.com

Aerospace Systems-Nortech — Techwww.nortechsys.com

AgStar Financial Services — Commercewww.agstar.com

Anytime Fitness — Caringwww.anytimefitness.com

ARC Southwest Minnesota — Caringhttp://arcmnsw.com

Art’s Way Manufacturing Company, Inc. — Techwww.artsway-mfg.com Aspire Salon & Spa — Caring

Associate Optometry, P.A. — Caring Avery Weigh-Tronix — Techwww.wtxweb.com

Baarts Trucking, Inc. — Civic Bank Midwest — Commercewww.bankmidwest.com

Beemer Companies, Inc. — Civichttp://beemercompanies.com

BEVCOMM, Inc. — Techwww.bevcomm.net

BioFuel Energy, LLC — Techwww.bfenergy.com

Bolton & Menk Inc. — Techwww.bolton-menk.com

Borchardt Agency, Inc. — Commercewww.borchardtagency.com

Burtis Chiropractic Center — Caringwww.burtischiropractic.com

CarlsonDentalOffice—Caring Carpenters - Local 464 — Techwww.hickorytech.net/~464kato/

Center For Specialty Care — Caringwww.centerforspecialtycare.com

CENTURY 21 Northland Realty — Techwww.CENTURY21NorthlandRealty.com

CHS, Inc. — Techwww.chsinc.com

City of Blue Earth — Civicwww.becity.org

City of Fairmont — Civicwww.fairmont.org

City of Fairmont Police Department — Civicwww.fairmontpolice.org

City of Winnebago — Civichttp://winnebago.govoffice.com

Comfort Inn — Commercewww.comfortinnfairmont.com

Community Options and Resources (COR) — Caringwww.cormn.com

Continental Carbonic Products, Inc. — Techwww.continentalcarbonic.com

Corn Plus — Techwww.cornplusethanol.com

Dan’s Appliance and TV — Techwww.dansappliance.com

Day Plumbing, Heating & Cooling, Inc. — Tech Department of Employment & Economic Development — Civicwww.deed.state.mn.us

Easy Automation, Inc./Easy Energy — Techwww.easy-automation.com Erickson, Zierke, Kuderer and Madsen, P.A. — Civic

Fairmont Area Chamber of Commerce — Techwww.fairmontchamber.org

Fairmont Area Schools — Caringwww.fairmont.k12.mn.us

Fairmont Chiropractic & Acupuncture Health Care, Ltd — Caring Fairmont Community Education & Recreation — Caringhttp://fairmont.k12.mn.us/CER/cer.htm

Fairmont Convention and Visitors Bureau — Commercewww.visitfairmontmn.com

Fairmont Medical Center - Mayo Health System — Caringwww.fairmontmedicalcenter.org

Fairmont Veterinary Clinic LLP — Civicwww.fmtvets.com

Fairmont WorkForce Center — Civicwww.mnwfc.org/fairmont

Fareway Food Stores, Inc. — Civicwww.fareway.com

Federated Rural Electric — Commercewww.federatedrea.coop

First Farmers & Merchants National Bank — Commercewww.ffmbank.com

Frontier Communications Solutions — Techwww.frontier.com

Garry’s Body Shop — Tech GKN — Techwww.gknoffhighway.com

Grace Lutheran Church — Caringhttp://gracelutheranchurch.org

Habilitative Services, Inc. — Caringwww.habsvinc.com


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Hampton Inn — Commercewww.hamptoninn.com

Hancor ADS — Techwww.hancor.com / www.ads-pipe.com

Hawkeye Foodservice Distribution, Inc. — Civicwww.hawkeyefoodservice.com

Hawkeye Sow Center — Civicwww.kerbermilling.com

Hawkins Chevrolet-Cadillac — Techwww.hawkinsbestprice.com

Holiday Inn — Commercewww.hifairmont.com

Human Services of Faribault & Martin Counties — Caringwww.fmchs.com

Hy-Vee — Civicwww.hy-vee.com

Iberdrola Renewables — Techwww.iberdrolausa.com

ISEEK — Caringwww.iseek.org

Joseph E. Switras, PH.D., P.A. — Caring Kahler Automation Corp — Techwww.kahlerautomation.com

Kerry Ingredients & Flavours — Techwww.kerryamericas.com

KSUM/KFMC Radio — Commercewww.kfmc.com

Labor Market Information — Civicwww.deed.state.mn.us/lmi/home.htm

Lakeview Funeral Home — Caringwww.lakeviewfuneralhome.net

Lakeview Methodist Health Care Center — Caringhttp://lakeviewmethodist.org

Marketlink, Inc. — Techwww.marketlinkinc.com

Martin County — Civicwww.co.martin.mn.us

Martin County District Court — Civicwww.co.martin.mn.us/Courts/Courts.htm

Martin County Economic Development Authority — Techwww.co.martin.mn.us/mceda/mceda.htm

Martin County Highway Department — Techwww.co.martin.mn.us/Highway/Highwaydepart.htm

Martin County Pork Producers — Civicwww.mnpork.com

Martin County Sheriff’s Department — Civicwww.co.martin.mn.us/SheriffDept/Sheriff.htm

Martin Soil & Water Conservation District — Civichttp://martinswcd.net

Midwest IT Systems, Inc. — Techwww.itsystemsinc.net


Minnesota Department of Natural Resources — Civicwww.dnr.state.mn.us

Minnesota Department of Corrections — Civicwww.doc.state.mn.us

MN Dept. of Employment & Economic Development — Civic www.positivelyminnesota.com

Minnesota National Guard — Civicwww.nationalguard.com

Minnesota Small Business Development Center — Commercewww.mnsbdc.com

Minnesota Valley Action Council — Caringwww.mnvac.org

Minnesota West Community & Technical College - Canby, Fairmont and Jackson — Caringwww.mnwest.edu

Minnesota West Community & Technical College - Fire Safety— Caringwww.mnwest.edu

MRCI WorkSource — Caringwww.mrci.info

Natural Resources Conservation Service — Civicwww.mn.nrcs.usda.gov

OfficeofPublicDefender/FifthJudicialDistrict—Civicwww.pubdef.state.mn.us

Operating Engineers - Local 49 — Techwww.local49.org

Perkins Restaurant — Commercewww.perkinsfairmont.com

Peterson Anthony Insurance Agency, Inc. — Commercehttp://petersonanthony.com

Pipefitters-Local455—Techwww.local455.com

Plumbers - Local 34 — Techwww.plumberslocal34.org

Preferred Capital Management — Commerce Presentation College - Fairmont — Caringwww.presentation.edu/fairmont

ProfiniumFinancial—Commercewww.profinium.com

Rasmussen College — Caringwww.rasmussen.edu

Redi Haul Trailers, Inc. — Techwww.redihaul.com

REM Heartland, Inc. — Caringwww.remminnesota.com

Ridgewater College — Caringwww.ridgewater.edu

Riverland Community College — Caringwww.riverland.edu


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Rosen’s, Inc. — Commercewww.rosens.com

Rural Advantage — Civicwww.ruraladvantage.org

Sauck Media Group — Commercewww.sauckmedia.com

Seifried Portrait Design — Commercewww.spdgallery.com

Sentinel — Commercewww.fairmontsentinel.com

Sheet Metal Workers - Local 10 — Techwww.smw10.org

Shopko — Civicwww.shopko.com

SMILES Center for Independent Living — Caringwww.smilescil.org

State Bank of Fairmont — Commercehttp://sbof.com

State Farm Insurance - Mark Fujan — Commercewww.statefarm.com

STEP, Inc. — Caring Super 8 — Commercewww.super8fairmont.com

Tech Builders, Inc. — Techwww.techbuildersinc.com

U.S. Army — Civicwww.army.mil

U.S. Bank — Commercewww.usbank.com

U.S. Marines — Civicwww.marines.com

U.S. Navy — Civicwww.navy.com

Valero Renewables - Welcome — Techwww.valero.com

Vocational Rehabilitation — Caringwww.deed.state.mn.us/rehab/index.htm

Walgreens — Civicwww.walgreens.com

Wal-Mart #3806 — Civicwww.walmart.com

Wells Federal Bank — Commercewww.wellsfederalbank.com

Westman Freightliner — Civicwww.westmanfreightliner.com

WFS — Civicwww.wfsag.com

Winnebago Manufacturing Company — Techhttp://bagomfg.com

Zierke Built Manufacturing Inc. — Techwww.zierkebuilt.com


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Questions To Help Gather InformationWhat is the best educational preparation for a career in this field? »

Are there technical schools or colleges known for providing good preparation in your field? »

What other experience was valuable in making your start in this job? »

What personal traits do I need to be successful in your field? »

What are the advantages and disadvantages of being in your job? »

Can you discuss a salary range or describe how you are compensated? »

Does the salary justify the hours you give? »

What trends will impact your profession? »

Please thank the business representatives for contributing their time and effort today.