Rural Minnesota CEP Frequently Asked Questions

Anyone who needs employment services is welcome to reach out or stop in to our offices to  explore program options. Our careerlab is open to the public Monday - Friday from 8-4:30. Careerlabs offer hands-on assistance with online job search, resume writing, mock interviews, access to the internet and links to local employers. Careerlab computers are also available for use to apply for and stay in contact with Minnesota Unemployment Assistance. For those that are seeking assistance with training dollars, or assistance to start or find a job, RMCEP has grant funding that may work for you to earn a degree, certificate or diploma. We also have funding for employers to assist with the cost of upskilling current employees. 

RMCEP’s services are free to the vast majority of its participants. Its career counselors and support staff can help you learn about programs and enroll in opportunities to support your employment goals.

RMCEP has secured  grants and special programs that make career changes, education, and training more affordable. If you have specific career goals, achieving them might be more affordable through RMCEP's grant programs. The first step is to meet with a counselor to discuss your needs and outline potential opportunities. 
 

RMCEP receives grant funding at the state and federal levels to support job seekers across Northwest Minnesota. These grant funds can be administered to program participants who need job training, education, and work experience in their desired fields. Grant funding can make it more affordable for job seekers to receive the qualifications and certifications necessary to get hired.

If you are ready to step into a new career but are worried about the costs associated with this shift, contact RMCEP. You may qualify for grant programs that support your goals.

RMCEP has specific programs for dislocated workers, also known as people who were laid off. Whether you recently lost your job or have experienced long-term unemployment, contact RMCEP. Our career counselors can help with a variety of services, from resume development to application support.

RMCEP also offers programs for dislocated workers who need job training to step into new roles or who want a career change. For example, Growing Careers helps people who want to step into the agriculture field, while Drive for Five supports job seekers entering in-demand fields like information technology and manufacturing. Learn more about these programs and how to access them. 

RMCEP can help people who have been involved with the justice system and who are ready to enter the workforce.  There are also grants that specifically support justice-involved residents.

You can take the next steps in your career and find lasting, meaningful work with the help of RMCEP. 

RMCEP benefits employers by making hiring easier. It can be challenging to find qualified candidates in rural Minnesota, so RMCEP connects employers with interested applicants who are working to grow their education, training, and workplace skills. Many of these candidates are eager to enter their career fields and will provide quality work with an eager-to-learn attitude.

RMCEP encourages employers to consider workers with disabilities, justice-involved workers, and people who were laid off as they seek to fill open positions. Learn more about the programs for employers offered by RMCEP.

No, employers do not have to pay to work with RMCEP. They benefit from receiving qualified candidates who are eager to work, and don’t have to pay any recruiting fees or service costs. Local businesses can also work with RMCEP as often as they like to meet their hiring goals. The organization has many long-term partnerships with businesses across Northwest Minnesota.  RMCEP is a partner in the Careerforce system in MN that operates the free online labor exchange careerforce.mn.gov

RMCEP does not provide direct training to employees, but it can connect them to programs to help them grow. The Incumbent Worker Training program makes it easier for companies to upskill or reskill workers. Companies and employees can find potential training programs and use grants facilitated by RMCEP to cover their costs.  

While RMCEP has several locations across Northwest Minnesota, it understands that not everyone can meet in person. It is happy to offer virtual sessions with job seekers and companies to discuss their needs. Whether you are preparing to re-enter the workforce and need certifications or want to hire locally, our team is here for you.

RMCEP has eight locations for residents in Northwest Minnesota. Check the locations page for an interactive map to find the nearest office. You can also contact RMCEP directly to find the closest location. A team member will be happy to learn where you are and find potential locations that are easy to reach.