Office of Civil Rights News
Vang Mark Thao is one of more than 50 graduates of MnDOT highway heavy training programs held this spring. “I am truly grateful for this program,” Thao said. Thao recently trained in the Cement Mason-Labor program, led by Brian Farmer, the Apprenticeship Coordinator at Cement Mason Local 633. MnDOT partners with Local 633 and the Department of Employment and Economic Development (DEED) to offer this training.
Thao now has entry level skills and confidence as he enters the field of highway heavy cement masonry and construction labor. “Because of how amazingly talented and dedicated Brian Farmer is,” and with the help of two seasoned instructors, Thao can meet the expectations of what's to come. All 16 graduates in Thao's class had job offers in hand on graduation day.
Also this spring, MnDOT partnered with the Carpenters Training Institute in St. Paul to prepare people to work in highway heavy carpentry. Participants gained hands-on skills and earned safety certifications. And MnDOT offered two construction career orientations in partnerships with Building Strong Communities and Brooklynk.
In addition to gaining hands-on skills and access to a new career, participants often make strong connections with each other – relationships that continue on worksites. Thao is eager, too, to pay it forward. “I cannot wait to return next year to inspire the next class, and classes to come.”
MnDOT training is free for eligible women, BIPOC people and people facing disadvantage.
Workforce training happening now
Cement Masons Tribal training in New Brighton
This is a tribal training. MnDOT offers this opportunity in partnership with Minnesota’s federally recognized tribes and Cement Masons Local 633. Participants gain the skills and knowledge needed to work in highway cement masonry. They also earn safety certifications.
- 10-week training continues through Aug. 4, 2023
- Contact Shannon Selix for questions
Starting this summer – spots still available!
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ADA concrete and inspection tribal training in Morton
This is a tribal training. Learn how to work in ADA-compliant concrete construction and inspection. Prepare to become MnDOT ADA Construction Certified.
- June 19 - 23, 2023
- Contact Adam Marks for questions
Highway heavy carpenter training in Rochester
Gain highway carpentry skills through hands-on training. Earn safety certifications and connect with employers. MnDOT offers this training in partnership with the Carpenters Training Institute.
- Five weeks, June 12 - July 14, 2023
- Contact Katie Jaeckels for more information and how to enroll
Commercial Driver’s License training in Duluth
Receive classroom and hands-on training for the Class A commercial driver’s license and entry into the highway heavy construction industry. MnDOT offers this training in partnership with SOAR Career Solutions and Lake Superior College.
Commercial Driver's License training in the Metro area
Receive classroom and hands-on training for the Class A commercial driver’s license and entry into the highway heavy construction industry. MnDOT offers this training in partnership with American Indian OIC.
Commercial Driver's License training in West Metro
Receive classroom and hands-on training for the Class A commercial driver’s license and entry into the highway heavy construction industry. MnDOT offers this training in partnership with Mind the G.A.P.P.
- Summer 2023
- Contact David Johnson for more information and how to enroll
More information
For more information please visit www.mndot.gov/civilrights/workforce-training-programs.html
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