We’re Here to Help
Interested in taking the next step in your pursuit of skilled trades but not sure where to start? Our team of experienced professionals is here to help.
So you’ve experienced the Mobile Learning Lab and have opened your eyes to the world of possibilities in a career in skilled trades. Now what?
Take the next step in your interest and development by leveraging our library of resources designed to help you uncover potential opportunities. Between interest assessments, career exploration tools, apprenticeship information, trade school information and more, there are countless ways to jumpstart the next phase of your life. Explore below to get started.
Utilize Our Industry Partner Network
Discover a rewarding career path through the Industry Partner Network. This growing group of industry leaders has partnered with Big Ideas to help build and support the next generation of skilled trades superheroes… starting with you!
Since 1941, Ziegler CAT has been serving the Midwest. They have locations in Minnesota, Wisconsin, and Iowa where you can find Apprenticeship and on-the-job training opportunities.
Rob Willaert Construction is dedicated to their community with a commitment to sustainable and innovative construction practices.
Our mission is to transform lives and landscapes by engaging people to build skills for meaningful careers, inspiring people to plant trees, and making our community a greener, healthier place to live.
We are committed to providing quality, beautiful homes to families across America, and it’s all possible with the knowledge and expertise of our hardworking team members.
Since 1933, Millerbernd Manufacturing Company has been a trusted leader in heavy metal fabrication.
Interest Assessments
Explore unique assessments and skills-matching exercises to help identify careers aligned with your interests.
CareerOneStop Interest Assessment
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The CareerOneStop Interest Assessment walks you through 30 quick questions around what you like to do and what you don’t like to do to help uncover careers that fit your interests.
Project Build Minnesota Career Tree
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If you’re trying to figure out the best career for you, this decision tree is the tool for you. Select your preferred answer to each question to see the career that best suits your interests and abilities.
My Next Move O*NET Interest Profiler
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The O*NET Interest Profiler helps find your interests and how they relate to the world of work, so you can better decide what types of careers you might want to explore.
Explore the Trades – What Trade Is Right for You?
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Which trade is right for you? Answer these questions to discover the skilled trades career you may be best equipped for.
CareerOneStop Skills Matcher
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The CareerOneStop Skills Matcher lets you rate yourself on 40 key workplace skills to highlight careers that match your current abilities.
Skilled Trades Career Exploration
Check out these resources designed to help you explore trades further, including statistics, programs, apprenticeship connections, and more.
Construction Careers Foundation
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The Construction Careers Foundation aims to increase the diversity of the construction trades while fostering long-term construction careers. View programs, careers, and more at the CCF website.
Project Build Minnesota
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View job opportunities, associate and bachelor’s degree programs, and more to help build a better future for the state of Minnesota.
Explore the Trades
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For newcomers and women in the trades, parents and educators, and employers and contractors, this website serves as a step-by-step guide to help you on your journey to a successful career in skilled trades.
Construct Tomorrow
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Construct Tomorrow was formed to bring awareness to high school students about the amazing post-secondary opportunities in the construction and building trades industries. Learn more and register for upcoming events near you.
Schools
There are so many outstanding colleges and universities in the state of Minnesota, all searchable here by location or program.
Minnesota Colleges and Universities
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Minnesota State consists of 26 colleges and seven universities throughout the state, offering 3,885 academic programs taught by exceptional faculty. Explore options by campus, program, or course at the link below.
Trade-Schools.net
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Skilled trades schools near you offer the chance to learn a new craft that can make a lasting impact on the world. Explore a wide range of programs and learn more about the process.
Scholarships
Scholarship opportunities are one of the best ways to help finance your education.
Scholarships
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There are a number of state and federal grant and loan forgiveness programs targeted at specific college majors, and this resource helps break those down as you plan your next step.
Apprenticeships
Access helpful information on apprenticeships from various reputable industry resources.
Minnesota Department of Labor and Industry
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Customized and hands-on, apprenticeships allow you to learn and earn while also offering rewarding careers and flexible work/life balance. To obtain an apprenticeship, apply directly to the employer’s personnel or hiring office using this comprehensive sponsor directory.
Construction Careers Foundation
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Learn all about what an apprenticeship is and if it’s the right choice for your unique career path.
Explore the Trades Apprenticeship
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Explore this interactive map to learn more about apprenticeships, trade schools, and licensing information within your state.
Craft Labor Demand Map
Total demand per state, updated quarterly.
“I was mentored by many great people throughout my career, and I love being able to give back and teach young tradespeople who are following the same path.”
Rick Louwagie
Big Ideas Instructor