Building Tomorrow's Workforce, Today
The Minnesota state Energy Center of Excellence
Helping Minnesotans from kindergarten to retirement find meaningful work and family-sustaining wages with the help of industry, education, and workforce partners.
- Established in 2008 through an industry led education partnership
- Funded by the Minnesota State legislature since 2012
- Part of Minnesota State, the college and university system
- One of SEVEN Centers of Excellence
Powering Minnesota, Together
Our Charge
Inspire Students
Enhance Education
Engage Industry
Energy CEnter Work Plan '26-'28
Inspiring Students
Inspire Future Energy Professionals: Connect students to energy careers through the Powering Minnesota campaign, AMP Camp, classroom engagement, and industry-supported career exploration experiences.
Build Stronger Workforce Pathways: Increase enrollment and work-based learning participation by 25% while expanding educator resources, industry partnerships, STEMn Library access, and hands-on learning opportunities that prepare learners for high-demand careers.
Enhancing Education
Launch New Initiatives: Collaborate with industry and education partners to revitalize Energy Technical Specialist programs, create license-to-degree pathways, develop solar and battery energy storage curriculum, and explore regional workforce strategies that support Minnesota's future economy.
Expand Successful Models: Develop and scale at least four systemwide initiatives by 2028, with Minnesota State colleges and universities adopting new approaches that strengthen workforce preparation, student success, and employer engagement.
Engaging industry
Strengthen Existing Partnerships: Continue collaborating with key industry, workforce, education, and community partners to support Minnesota's evolving energy workforce.
Grow New Partnerships: Establish or renew 20 strategic partnerships by 2028, engaging employers across Minnesota's regions to identify local workforce priorities, shape talent development strategies, and strengthen statewide career pathways.
