Youth Skills Training (YST) Programs

Students in Advanced Manufacturing develop high-level technical skills aligned to modern production environments, while also learning how to manage workflow, efficiency, and production-based projects.

Technical learning includes CNC machining, CAD/CAM design, metrology, and automation systems. Students also learn how to plan production timelines, manage materials, and collaborate within team-based manufacturing settings.

Industry certifications and credentials may include:

• OSHA 10 General Industry
• NIMS (National Institute for Metalworking Skills)
• Precision Measurement and Safety Certifications

Hands-on and workplace experiences may include:

• CNC programming and operation
• interpreting technical drawings and managing production steps
• applying lean manufacturing and process improvement strategies
• participating in team-based production projects with defined timelines

Students may engage with partners such as Emerson and Benchmark Electronics.

Career pathways include machining, manufacturing engineering, automation, and industrial systems, with advancement into supervisory and operations roles.

Project Management is both a standalone pathway and an integrated skillset across all YST programs. Students learn how to lead teams, manage timelines, and deliver results in real-world environments.

This pathway aligns closely with CAPS, capstone experiences, and work-based learning.

Students develop skills in:

• planning and scheduling projects
• managing teams and roles
• budgeting and resource allocation
• communicating with clients and stakeholders
• presenting outcomes and reflecting on results

Industry credentials may include:

• Microsoft Office Specialist
• Google Project Management Certificate
• OSHA 10 (where applicable)

Hands-on experiences may include:

• leading team-based or client-based projects
• coordinating deliverables and timelines
• working directly with industry partners
• presenting final outcomes to stakeholders

Career pathways extend across all industries, including business, engineering, construction management, healthcare administration, and operations leadership.

Students in Agriculture and Natural Resources explore environmental systems, agriculture, and sustainability while also learning how to manage projects related to land use, production, and resource planning.

Project management is embedded through planning growing cycles, managing equipment use, and coordinating environmental or agricultural projects.

Industry certifications and credentials may include:

• OSHA 10 (Agriculture or General Industry)
• Minnesota pesticide safety training (intro level)
• equipment and safety certifications (program dependent)

Students may connect with partners such as Rahr Corporation.

Hands-on experiences may include:

• operating and maintaining equipment
• managing greenhouse or land-based projects
• participating in conservation and environmental work
• exploring agribusiness systems and logistics

Career pathways include agribusiness, environmental science, conservation, and agricultural technology.

Students in Information Technology build technical expertise in systems, networking, and cybersecurity while also learning to manage technical projects, troubleshoot efficiently, and support users in real time.

Project management skills are developed through managing IT tickets, coordinating system updates, and working through structured problem-solving processes.

Industry certifications and credentials may include:

• CompTIA IT Fundamentals (ITF+)
• CompTIA A+
• CompTIA Network+ (intro or preparation)
• Google IT Support Certificate

Hands-on and workplace experiences may include:

• troubleshooting hardware and software issues
• managing devices, users, and systems
• supporting network setup and maintenance
• participating in cybersecurity simulations and projects

Career pathways include IT support, network administration, cybersecurity, and systems management.

Students in Automotive Technology gain real-world experience diagnosing and repairing vehicles while also learning how to manage workflow in a professional shop environment.

In addition to technical skills, students develop the ability to prioritize tasks, communicate with customers, and manage service timelines—key elements of project management in the automotive field.

Industry certifications and credentials may include:

• ASE Entry-Level Certification
• OSHA 10 General Industry
• SP2 Automotive Safety Certification

Hands-on and workplace experiences may include:

• performing inspections and maintenance
• diagnosing mechanical and electrical issues
• managing repair processes from intake to completion
• collaborating with technicians and service teams

Career pathways include automotive technician, diesel technician, and shop management or service leadership roles.

Project Management is both a standalone pathway and an integrated skillset across all YST programs. Students learn how to lead teams, manage timelines, and deliver results in real-world environments.

This pathway aligns closely with CAPS, capstone experiences, and work-based learning.

Students develop skills in:

• planning and scheduling projects
• managing teams and roles
• budgeting and resource allocation
• communicating with clients and stakeholders
• presenting outcomes and reflecting on results

Industry credentials may include:

• Microsoft Office Specialist
• Google Project Management Certificate
• OSHA 10 (where applicable)

Hands-on experiences may include:

• leading team-based or client-based projects
• coordinating deliverables and timelines
• working directly with industry partners
• presenting final outcomes to stakeholders

Career pathways extend across all industries, including business, engineering, construction management, healthcare administration, and operations leadership.

Students in the Healthcare pathway explore patient care and medical systems while developing strong organizational, communication, and coordination skills essential to healthcare environments.

Project management is embedded through patient care planning, time management, and collaboration within healthcare teams.

Industry certifications and credentials may include:

• CPR/AED and First Aid Certification
• Certified Nursing Assistant (CNA), where available
• HIPAA and patient privacy training

Through partnerships with providers, students gain exposure to healthcare settings.

Hands-on experiences may include:

• supporting patient care under supervision
• observing clinical workflows and team coordination
• assisting with basic tasks and documentation
• practicing communication and professionalism in care environments

Career pathways include nursing, allied health, medical support roles, and healthcare leadership pathways.

Project Management is both a standalone pathway and an integrated skillset across all YST programs. Students learn how to lead teams, manage timelines, and deliver results in real-world environments.

This pathway aligns closely with CAPS, capstone experiences, and work-based learning.

Students develop skills in:

• planning and scheduling projects
• managing teams and roles
• budgeting and resource allocation
• communicating with clients and stakeholders
• presenting outcomes and reflecting on results

Industry credentials may include:

• Microsoft Office Specialist
• Google Project Management Certificate
• OSHA 10 (where applicable)

Hands-on experiences may include:

• leading team-based or client-based projects
• coordinating deliverables and timelines
• working directly with industry partners
• presenting final outcomes to stakeholders

Career pathways extend across all industries, including business, engineering, construction management, healthcare administration, and operations leadership.