At DEED, we are identifying new and innovative approaches to address the workforce needs of employers, like connecting businesses struggling to find workers with overlooked Minnesotans with the right skills.

Many Minnesotans are eligible for training and work experience that can help them develop the skills and experience to meet the needs of employers looking for workers.

Governor Walz and Lieutenant Governor Flanagan, along with the Minnesota Legislature, have made significant investments in employment and training programs and employer services, like the Drive for 5 Initiative and other workforce programs that prioritize preparing a work-ready and skilled workforce, and establishing employer-centered services that connect businesses with skilled workers.

One of the investments is the new DEED Employer Engagement Team that we formed to connect people who successfully complete training with employers in the Drive for 5 fields: the caring professions, education, manufacturing, technology and the trades. The Employer Engagement Team offers Minnesota employers support in recruiting and retaining employees, assistance in fostering sustainable worker pipelines and help connecting with laid off workers who have needed skills and are looking for new employment opportunities.

The Employer Engagement Team members are strategically based throughout the state: central, northeast, northwest, southern Minnesota and the Twin Cities metro area. They will collaborate with employers, local workforce boards, Drive for 5 grantees and other regional stakeholders, with a focus on connecting job seekers with high-quality jobs in Minnesota's most in-demand industries. Leveraging their knowledge of the local hiring environment and through close working relationships with local workforce development area staff, Employer Engagement Team members will help ensure efficient and effective services for employers and job seekers alike.

This team will also work closely with DEED's Rapid Response Team, which serves employers considering or going through staff reductions, to help quickly connect laid off workers with new employment opportunities. In addition, team members will highlight tax incentives available to employers through the Work Opportunity Tax Credit program for hiring people with barriers to employment, along with other federal programs available to help employers meet their workforce needs.

The Employer Engagement Team is another way that DEED delivers for Minnesota workers, employers and our overall economy.

Find out more and connect with your regional Employer Engagement Team member today.