Three Rural Minnesota CEP Employees Recognized at the 2026 MFIP/Tribal TANF Conference

Team members from the Rural Minnesota Concentrated Employment Program (CEP) attended the annual conference for the Minnesota Family Investment Program (MFIP) and Tribal Temporary Assistance for Needy Families (TANF). This state-level conference featured valuable discussions about building community connections, establishing adult career pathways, and empowering workers through technology.

The conference also featured an awards component, during which three Rural Minnesota CEP employees were recognized.

“Our staff works tirelessly throughout the year to help people enter new careers or re-enter the workforce,” says Tina Jaster, Executive Director of Rural Minnesota CEP. “We are thrilled that three team members were recognized at the state level for their dedication, commitment, and problem-solving mentality.”

Congratulations to everyone who received an award at this year’s conference. Meet the Rural Minnesota CEP employees and learn about the excellent work they do. 

Employment Counselor of the Year: Kirsten Waterman

Kirsten Waterman, an employment counselor in Little Falls, was recognized for her willingness to step in and help. She received the Employment Counselor of the Year award because she always comes to work with a positive attitude and is deeply knowledgeable about her job.

“Kirsten is aware of the resources in the area and how they can help the various community members she meets with,” says Jaster. “She is also exceptional at thinking outside the box to find solutions. She is a tremendous asset to Little Falls and supports residents across the surrounding rural communities.”

Rural Minnesota CEP works with several partners and navigates different programs throughout the year. Waterman is knowledgeable about all of them and knows when specific programs would be a good fit for different cases. 

Lifetime Achievement Award: Audrey Lukanen

Audrey Lukanen has been a job counselor at Rural Minnesota CEP for 36 years and was recognized for a lifetime of work supporting her community. Not only does Lukanen work with residents across Douglas County, but she also trains and mentors other MFIP job counselors.

“Audrey’s ability to make people feel seen is priceless,” says Jaster. “She works diligently to find solutions for participants and shows them what steps to take if they face additional barriers. She does a great job of empowering people to help themselves.”

By passing on her knowledge and skills, Lukanen ensures the next generation of job counselors will be just as effective in their roles. 

Exceptional Leadership Award: Brandon Larson

Finally, Brandon Larson was recognized for his professional development, encouraging leadership, and commitment to helping his staff. Not only does his leadership protect the integrity of Rural Minnesota CEP and its programs, but it also boosts team morale and makes this organization a great place to work.

“I have seen Brandon coach staff through challenging cases and break down policies into practical steps that his team could follow,” says Jaster. “He can take big problems or complicated situations and develop a series of tasks to make them manageable.”

Larson builds trust with his team and serves as a resource staff can turn to when they need help. 

Meet Our Team and Let Us Help You

Every team member at Rural Minnesota CEP is committed to helping their communities. They work with people of all ages and backgrounds to identify potential career goals and create pathways to re-enter the workforce. If you are looking to start a new chapter, find your nearest Rural Minnesota CEP location or contact our main office. We can help you find the right person to identify opportunities and the potential steps to embrace them.

Reach out today and work with some of the most dedicated counselors and career professionals in Minnesota.