Republican-Eagle: Goodhue County high school students graduate from Learn and Earn class

By Katryn Conlin, November 28, 2024

On November 18, 11 Goodhue County high school students got a head start on finding careers in manufacturing and the trades by graduating from an OSHA 10 and Essential Soft Skills class at Minnesota State College Southeast.

The class was offered though the Learn and Earn program, which served four area high schools this fall. Liz Diggins, a work-based learning teacher at Goodhue County Education district, juggles the program logistics.

"The students are registered at the college and actually earn one college credit for completing the class," Liz Diggins said. "Next, they will have two sessions of Microsoft office training, and then starting in January they will be placed in a paid internship in manufacturing or one of the trades areas."

Jake Rodgers, a senior at Red Wing High School, said he's a "hands-on" learner and hopes to become an electrician in the future. "OSHA 10 is about safety, knowing your rights, and knowing workplace rules. Everything is done for a reason, and everything has a purpose."

Edward Michael Berg, a Cannon Falls High School senior, plans on moving to the Twin Cities after high school and finding a hands-on, well-paying job in manufacturing, most likely in metal working. He wanted to be part of Learn and Earn because of the opportunity to get college credit.

"Having college credit helps you find a job, and a better paying job," he said.

Jake Rodgers said the bottom line was knowing the OSHA 10 certification would be good to have on his resume. "Every company is using OSHA standards, so having that training puts you ahead of other applicants."

An employer panel is the capstone of the college credit course. Local employers reinforced the importance of "soft skills" no matter what career students pursue.

Being a good communicator, working well with others, and showing up every day ready to work are skills valued by employers, almost more than technical skills.

"They can teach you technical skills on the job," said Katie Hardyman, Director of Workforce Education at Southeast. "But you've got to bring a professional attitude to your job interview in order to get ― and keep ― a job."

Vanessa Harstad, a human resources specialist from AmesburyTruth in Cannon Falls, advised students to research the company they are applying for in advance.

"Know what they do and how they make it," she recommended. "Align the qualifications on your resume with their minimum job requirements, but don't overstate your qualifications."

Dan Maxwell from USG in Red Wing told the students that companies want to invest in their employees. "The best thing someone can invest in you is their time. Start at the ground level and be willing to learn. Show your company that you care -- you need to want to better yourself."

Career pathways don't always go in a straight line. Wherever the future may lead them, Jason Nelson, Director of Operations at FabTECH, Inc. in Goodhue, told the students to take a long view.

"Nobody has all the answers at age 18," he said. "Take the time to reflect and learn. Good things come to those who remain positive and keep looking forward."

Photo captions
Above: The Learn and Earn students gathered with coordinator Liz Diggins (left) and members of the employer panel for a graduation photo.
Below: Jake Rodgers shakes hands with Learn and Earn coordinator Liz Diggins at the Fall 2024 OSHA 10 and Essential Soft Skills for Employment graduation ceremony.