Minnesota appropriates $500K for operating engineers high school pathway program

The Minnesota Senate Committee on Labor convened on March 4, 2025, to discuss the significant impact of the Operating Engineers Pathways Program, which aims to prepare high school students for careers in heavy equipment operations. The committee reviewed a bill proposing the allocation of $500,000 from the state's workforce development fund to support school districts participating in this program.

The program, established in partnership with Minnesota Virtual Academy, has seen substantial growth since its launch in 2020. Jenny Winkler, the director of workforce and community development for Operating Engineers Local 49, highlighted that enrollment has increased from 57 students in its first semester to 333 students this spring, representing over 150 school districts across Minnesota. The program offers students the opportunity to earn high school, college, and apprenticeship credits, making it a versatile option for those interested in the field.

Winkler emphasized the program's flexibility, allowing students to take courses remotely while still enrolled in their local schools. This approach caters to various learning styles and schedules, ensuring broader access to education in heavy equipment operations. The curriculum includes essential topics such as construction exploration, equipment fundamentals, and maintenance, all designed to equip students with the skills needed in the industry.

In addition to virtual learning, the program has introduced in-person classes at Wright Tech and plans to expand further with partnerships, including one with Saint Paul Public Schools. These initiatives aim to provide hands-on experiences, crucial for students to gain practical skills.

Testimonies from former students, including Marley Sherbin, who is now a third-year apprentice, underscored the program's effectiveness in guiding youth toward successful careers without the burden of college debt. Sherbin shared her journey from high school to becoming a crane operator, illustrating the program's potential to transform lives.

The committee's discussions highlighted the importance of investing in workforce development programs that not only benefit students but also address the growing demand for skilled labor in Minnesota's heavy equipment industry. The proposed funding aims to enhance these educational opportunities, ensuring that more young people can access rewarding careers in this vital sector.