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Demand for manufacturing workers has been extremely high for several years in Minnesota. Local opportunities for career and technical education or general workforce development in Wadena County exist, offering nearly 100% placement, excellent wages and exciting careers in local companies. “There is a growing concern in the manufacturing industry of the...
The skilled trades are at a pivotal moment in time. More than a decade of understaffing issues remain unresolved as the Great Retirement looms, and current economic uncertainty is shifting budget priorities away from workforce development at many organizations. As for the next decade, the U.S. Bureau of Labor (BLS)...
According to the Bureau of Labor Statistics most recent report released on March 10, 2023, the unemployment rate for March was 3.5 percent. The unemployment rate has hovered at this level over the last 12 months, ranging between 3.5 percent and 3.7 percent, except for in January 2023 where it...
RMCEP’s Restoring Connections Grant Program: A Fresh Start for Justice-Involved Individuals
Jul 24 2023Rural Minnesota CEP (RMCEP) has introduced a competitive grant program, “Restoring Connections,” which will help justice-involved MN residents rejoin the workforce. Through programming and training services, RMCEP will create opportunities for participants to secure employment and support regional industries.
RMCEP will serve 38 participants through the program. The program’s...
Wadena County offers a fantastic place to live centered around the peaceful, natural setting found throughout the area. The parks and recreation there are essential for residents’ high quality of life and enjoyment and for new families looking for a place to live. Parks and recreation can also serve as...
July’s Workforce Wednesday discussion highlighted strategies for growing and expanding a business in Minnesota with the help of DEED’s Economic Development team.
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If you want to gain a competitive edge in the race to hire talent, you may want to consider doing what many American workers have already done: Move out of the big city.
What many thought was just a blip during the COVID-19 pandemic — people fleeing big cities...
Much Ado about Everything in Wadena County
Jun 19 2023Wadena County is a haven of outdoor recreation and events. This summer, nature lovers can enjoy peaceful, serene natural experiences on a canoe cruise along the Crow Wing River or relaxing hikes through forested rolling landscapes. Fun seekers favoring wheeled outings will find their fill, whether on bicycles and dirt...
New Leadership in Wadena County
May 17 2023Spring is a time for renewal and new beginnings. Fittingly, now is an excellent time for Hope Williams to bring her passion and knowledge of the area as the new executive director of the Economic Alliance, the economic development agency for Wadena County. She is excited by the region’s potential...
The Economic Alliance is the voice of economic development in Wadena County. It represents the public and private interests of Wadena County and surrounding communities through educational, networking and advocacy resources and opportunities.
Since 2011, the Economic Alliance has operated with the region’s economic growth in mind as an...
Small businesses help Wadena County thrive!
Apr 25 2023From the thriving manufacturing company to the trusted healthcare providers or favorite downtown cafe, small, locally-owned businesses are the lifeblood of Wadena County. The Economic Alliance knows that these employers play a large role in contributing to the special quality of life found here.
As the county’s economic development...