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Central Minnesota Jobs & Training outlines youth services, highlights summer career camps
Summary
Central Minnesota Jobs and Training presented an overview of youth programs serving ages 14–24 in Wright County, described work-based learning, occupational training and wraparound support, and showcased a paid summer Operation Exploration camp that placed dozens of local youth in career pathways.
Central Minnesota Jobs and Training Services told the Wright County Board of Commissioners on Aug. 19 that its youth programs serve ages 14–24 and emphasize work‑based learning, occupational training and wraparound support to help young people transition to education or employment. Diana Ristomecki, youth program manager, delivered the presentation and said the program serves youth who are low‑income, have disabilities, are justice‑involved, homeless, parenting, or otherwise need extra assistance.
Ristomecki said CMJTS works with local businesses to place youth in paid work experiences, paying wages and covering workers' compensation so employers act as on‑the‑job mentors. Jody Lee, a CMJTS staff member, described partnerships with Wright Technical Center and local schools to offer credit for work hours and short‑term credential programs such as CNA and CDL training. "We can pay for tuition for some of our youth as long as that career is a high demand, high wage," Ristomecki said.
The program’s Operation Exploration camps run two weeks and pay participants. Camp participants described hands‑on experiences. A participant identified as Jayden said, "I liked it a lot because you guys can really see firsthand what all of this stuff is about." Another participant, Johnny, said he took part in welding, automotive and construction and "recommend[s] doing this."
Ristomecki said CMJTS served 532 youth during the previous year, with 185 enrollments from Wright County. She said 70 percent of enrollees disclosed a disability (higher than state average), 45 percent were BIPOC or Hispanic, 335 were low income, 40 were true dropouts, 23 were homeless and 29 were offenders. She described follow‑up services that continue up to a year after program exit.
Board members thanked staff and asked clarifying questions about camp age limits and eligibility. Ristomecki said health camp participants can be 14–24 but trades camps must be 16–24 because of child labor laws. Commissioners expressed appreciation for the program’s outreach and partnerships.
The presentation was informational; no board action was taken.
