Bill expands highly successful pilot program that connects high school students to internships & apprenticeships in industry

Senator Paul Anderson (R-Plymouth) and Representative Jim Davnie (DFL-Minneapolis) introduced bipartisan legislation (SF 1265/HF 1504)  expanding the Youth Skills Training Program in Minnesota. Originally signed into law by Governor Mark Dayton as a pilot program in 2017, the Youth Skills Training Program connects classroom learning with on-the-job experience for high school students ages 16 and older. Students complete apprenticeships and internships with local employers to prepare them for careers in high-wage jobs and further post-secondary education. The Youth Skills Training Program allows flexibility to create programs which fit the local community where it is being implemented.

“The Youth Skills Training Program has been extremely successful with significant demand in communities across Minnesota,” said Senator Anderson, Chair of the Senate Higher Education Committee and chief-author of the original legislation establishing the program. “Partnerships are formed between high schools, local employers, and in many cases local chambers or economic development groups. The program gives students the tremendous opportunity for a hands-on work experience, within critical industries.”

The proposed legislation expands funding for the program, targeting high-growth, high-demand occupations in the fields of advanced manufacturing, automotive, health care, and information technology. The bill also allows further flexibility in awarding grants.

“The key to educational success for students is their ability to see the relevance of what they are learning in class to what their hopes and dreams are for their future,” said Representative Davnie, Chair of the House Education Finance Committee and chief-author of the bill in the House. “The Youth Skills Training program engages Minnesota’s diverse student population with the breadth of high paying careers in high demand jobs, connecting the classroom to careers. I’m excited by the Youth Skills Training program because it builds bridges between schools and employers and builds bridges between students today and the future they want. Now is the time to expand support for programs that respond to both the desires of students and the needs of Minnesota employers.”

“The most important thing we can do to grow and sustain our economy is engage in robust career and technical education from 7th grade to graduation,” added Senator Jason Isaacson (DFL-Shorview), a co-author of the bill.

“It’s very rewarding to see this program helping students gain the training and skills necessary to better prepare themselves for good-paying careers down the road,” concluded Representative Barb Haley (R-Red Wing), a co-author of the bill in the House.