RMCEP News
Northwest Region Blog
The presence of such industry powerhouses as Polaris, Arctic Cat and New Flyer make Northwest Minnesota a hub of transportation equipment manufacturing.
From wheat and potatoes to soybeans and sugar beets, the region is a major producer and processor of food staples and specialty agricultural products. Click here to view the blog.
News Articles
Rural Minnesota Concentration Employment Program (CEP) is proud to launch AgPaths, an initiative that will create agriculture-sector career pathways across the region. AgPaths is made possible through a $500,000 Growing Careers Grant, which is supported by the Minnesota Department of Employment and Economic Development (DEED).The AgPaths program enables RMCEP to...
Workforce Forum: From Vision to Action
Nov 19 2025The region’s workforce is evolving, and building the talent pipeline our businesses and communities need requires bold action and collaboration. The 2026 Workforce Forum is a half-day event designed to give HR leaders, executives, educators, nonprofit professionals and community decision-makers the insights and tools to address current challenges and plan...
The Minnesota Department of Employment and Economic Development (DEED) today awarded $2.4 million to seven local partners to develop and implement agriculture-focused workforce training programs for the Growing Careers initiative."Minnesota farms are facing new challenges because of policies coming out of the federal government," said DEED Commissioner Matt Varilek. "DEED's...
he Minnesota Department of Employment and Economic Development (DEED) has awarded more than $4.8 million to 39 organizations to provide more than 4,000 young people with workforce development and training opportunities.DEED's Youth at Work Opportunity Grants Program serves youth of color and youth with disabilities who are economically disadvantaged or...
Success Story: Marmaduke Mounts
Oct 29 2025When Marmaduke Mounts first connected with Rural MN CEP, he was underemployed but determined to create a better future for his family. With prior experience driving tow and box trucks, Marmaduke knew he had the skills — and the passion — to pursue something more. “I like driving!” he shared...
Rural Minnesota Concentrated Employment Program (RMCEP) helps people receiving social security disability benefits learn about their options if they are interested in returning to work. The Ticket to Work program is completely free and voluntary. Anyone who wants to enter the workforce can meet with the team at RMCEP to...
The Rural Minnesota Concentrated Employment Program (CEP) has eight locations across Northwest Minnesota. This allows local career advisors to immerse themselves in the community and really get to know the students and young adults who live there.Supporting job seekers in the region is a team effort, but you might encounter...
By Tina Jaster, Executive Director, RMCEP, Workforce Development Area 2Every year, RMCEP connects hundreds of residents to jobs, skills training, and career opportunities. These investments don’t just change lives, they strengthen our local economy, helping businesses grow and our community thrive.Our board serves as a bridge between employers, jobseekers, educators,...
For Immediate ReleaseView of the Current Job Search Environment in NW Minnesota[DETROIT LAKES, MN] - Rural Minnesota Concentrated Employment Program (RMCEP) and DEED staff along with other Northwest Minnesota workforce development professionals serve thousands of job seekers every year and offer a great sense of the current regional job search...
Rural Minnesota Concentrated Employment Program (RMCEP) now provides career services to people re-entering the workforce after involvement in the justice system. The Second Chances, Stronger Futures program is made possible through a $30,000 grant issued under the Perkins statute and through a partnership with the REWIND Center and Perham 180.“At...
RMCEP Success Story: Habib Abu
Aug 5 2025Habib Abu, a husband, and father of 4 living in Moorhead, wanted to be a diesel mechanic. He came from Kenya with a high school education and worked in the United States as a driver until he decided it was time to begin his education. He came to RMCEP seeking...
Anthony Mondor was laid off in November 2024 and decided to pursue his CDL because he loves traveling and had prior experience driving side dumps.After discussions with the Wadena RMCEP team and completing the intake process with his job counselor, it was determined that the Drive for Five program would...
Minnesota residents ages 14-24 can participate in the Minnesota Youth Program (MYP) during the summer months. Starting in June and running through early August, participants can receive job placements to explore potential career paths while earning money. This program is available in all 19 counties supported by the Rural Minnesota...
Any employee in Northwest Minnesota who was recently laid off can find support and resources at the Rural Minnesota Concentrated Employment Program (RMCEP). Visit your nearest location to find potential job leads, work on your resume, and learn about opportunities to grow your skills or complete certifications.“Everyone is eligible to...
The Rural Minnesota Concentrated Employment Program (RMCEP) is committed to meeting local workforce needs while helping students get the right education and training to pursue their desired careers. One way it accomplishes this is by sending career advisors to local schools. This allows students to receive personal learning plans that...