As we mark Workforce Development Month this September, the Southwest Minnesota Private Industry Council (PIC) is proud to celebrate our achievements and reaffirm our commitment to building a thriving workforce in our communities. This past year has been one of growth, innovation, and impactful service, and we are excited to share our successes and highlight the programs that are making a difference.
The Southwest Minnesota Private Industry Council is a non-profit organization dedicated to empowering individuals, businesses, and communities through comprehensive workforce development initiatives. Our mission is to support job seekers of all ages and backgrounds, advocating for the underemployed, undereducated, and economically disadvantaged. Through our CareerForce locations and partnerships, we offer a range of services, including employment and training support, business services, and youth career development. Together with our dedicated staff and partners, we strive to create a world-class workforce in Southwest Minnesota.
This year, we have supported 208 young individuals through various Youth Specialized Programs aimed at enhancing their career prospects and skills. The WIOA Youth Program provides year-round employment and training services for out-of-school youth aged 16-24 and in-school youth aged 14-21. The Minnesota Youth Program (MYP) serves low-income and at-risk youth, helping them acquire essential academic and applied skills. The Youth at Work Program offers comprehensive training to under-represented young adults in the CareerForce. Additionally, our Youth Skills Training Program develops local partnerships between schools and employers to provide work-based learning in various industries. The Youth Intervention Program (YIP) helps students explore career options and transition from high school to post-secondary training or employment.
Our Youth Career Connector services play a crucial role in bridging the gap between education and employment for young adults. Our young adult division collaborates with employers and educators to assist students with career exploration, career awareness, career preparation, and skills training that align with local employer needs. This is achieved through a series of work-based learning activities, career-focused events, and workplace experiences. This year, we worked with 30 school districts, providing career advisory services to 5,174 students. By offering opportunities to experience real-life workplaces and employees outside of the classroom, we help build a pipeline of future skilled workers in Southwest Minnesota.
Our Welfare to Work programs have served 923 individuals, supporting low-income families to achieve self-sufficiency through employment. The Diversionary Work Program (DWP) assists families in gaining employment and preventing reliance on public assistance, while the Minnesota Family Investment Program (MFIP) helps low-income families achieve economic stability through work, supporting both job-seeking and working parents.
This year, 284 adults have benefitted from our Adult Specialized Programs, helping them gain the skills and knowledge needed to succeed in today’s economy. The WIOA Adult Program provides tuition assistance and training for low-income adults, and the Dislocated Worker Program offers training and job placement assistance for individuals facing job displacement. Additionally, our Career Pathways program connects education and training programs to support career advancement in specific industries.
The Southwest Minnesota Workforce Development Board, comprising diverse representatives from businesses, education, government, and community stakeholders, guides our efforts in developing a quality workforce. Our board of directors, featuring committed volunteers from across our service area, provides leadership and oversight to ensure our programs meet the needs of our community.
As we celebrate Workforce Development Month, we invite you to learn more about our work and explore how we can support your career goals. Visit www.swmnpic.org to see how we are building a brighter future for Southwest Minnesota. Together, we are creating opportunities, transforming lives, and shaping the workforce of tomorrow.
