Message from the Chair

Our local workforce is strong, resilient, and diverse — and we are always looking for ways to help it grow. Whether it’s individuals seeking to upgrade their skills or businesses in search of qualified talent, our goal is to connect people and opportunity. A strong workforce supports a strong economy, and that requires intentional investment in both workers and employers.

In this edition of our newsletter, we are proud to welcome our newest board member, Danny Hernández, whose passion and expertise will further strengthen our efforts. You’ll also find information on programs and services designed to support career development, workforce training, and employer success.

Be sure to check out highlights on upcoming workshops to help businesses hire the right talent and funding opportunities available to those impacted by the Blue Line Extension. Let’s continue to invest in people, in potential, and in progress. Together, we can discuss strategies and build an economy that is stronger — one job, one business, and one partnership at a time. 

Join us for more information and discussion about making our local workforce stronger at our next board meeting on Tuesday, July 16!

In partnership,

Dr. Tara Watson

Chair, Minneapolis Workforce Development Board

Meet our new board member: Danny Hernández

We’re excited to introduce our newest board member, Danny Hernández! Danny’s journey is one of perseverance, passion, and purpose. Originally from Mexico, he came to the United States at the age of 16 and graduated from Hopkins High School. In his early twenties, he pursued a career as a wedding photographer, capturing moments of love and joy for countless families. His entrepreneurial spirit led him to study property and casualty insurance at Kaplan University. But his calling for community-building through food and culture soon took center stage.

Today, Danny is the proud owner of two Colonial Market & Restaurant locations. These vibrant Latino supermarkets have in-house restaurants and serve as cultural gathering spaces. Read about his grand opening at Lowry and North Penn Avenue in Mayor Jacob Frey's weekly newsletter.

He also owns Fusion Pancake House in South Minneapolis — a beloved local breakfast spot known for unique twists on classic dishes. As part of his continued expansion, Danny is preparing to open a brand-new Colonial Market in Bloomington in the coming months.

Danny lives in Hopkins with his wife, Gaby, and their children. Family, faith, and community are at the heart of everything he does. When he’s not managing his businesses or organizing events, he loves spending quality time with loved ones and connecting with people from all backgrounds. In his own words: "Joining this board is an honor. I believe in the power of community, and I’m here to help bridge cultures, ideas, and people. I look forward to learning from everyone and contributing to a future where we all grow together."

Please join us in warmly welcoming Danny Hernández to the board!

Step Up is more than a summer youth employment program for youth ages 14-21. It's a way forward for hundreds of Minneapolis youth each year.

Step Up has offered more than 34,000 internships since inception in 2003. In 2024, over 1,000 Minneapolis youth participated in paid career experiences. Over 650 youth completed internships with 96 employers. Almost 400 completed a five-week online career exploration course. Read more about our accomplishments in the 2024 Step Up Report.

Each year employers around the Twin Cities host internships, help with mock interviews and volunteer at events. Summer 2025 internships started at the end of June and will wrap up in August. However, if you are interested in getting involved for next year, visit the Step Up website for more information.

Step Up is a program of the City of Minneapolis Employment and Training in partnership with Achieve Twin Cities, Minnesota CareerForce/Department of Employment and Economic Development and Project for Pride in Living. 

June, July and August are Caring Careers Months in Minnesota

Follow your heart to a Caring Career!

June, July and August are all designated as Caring Career months in the State of Minnesota. According to a report from the state, almost 20,000 local job are open in health care and social assistance. The demand for workers is high and there are opportunities to advance.

Do you know someone who would be great in a career focused on helping people? In this field, you can help people who are sick or injured. You can help elders and people with disabilities in our community. Find out more about these critical jobs. 

Watch for Caring Career events happening soon! Visit the CareerForce website to learn more