Genesys Works was announced as one of 17 recipients to receive a Youth Skills Training grant from the Minnesota Department of Labor and Industry.

– Genesys Works receives $85,000 from the Minnesota Department of Labor and Industry to expand multiple pathways to economic mobility for youth in low-income communities.

“Youth Skills Training grants provide students with hands-on workforce training in high-demand, high-growth fields,” said Governor Tim Walz. “Employers across the state are facing workforce shortages, and these innovative partnerships connect schools with local business to create career pathways for younger Minnesotans.”

The grant is part of a Minnesota Department of Labor and Industry (YST@DLI) program, which was signed into law in 2017 with bipartisan support, to create and provide employment training for student learners ages 16 and older in high-growth, high-demand occupations. In 2019, Governor Walz signed a law doubling the size of the program after the success of the pilot program.

“These grants allow high schools, businesses and community organizations to work together to train students and create skilled workers for their communities,” said Minnesota Department of Labor and Industry Commissioner Nancy Leppink.

Genesys Works, in partnership with Saint Paul Public Schools, will pilot a program that provides access to technology and business training and credentialing for high school students. Over the course of the grant period, an anticipated 660 students from more than 50 schools will receive training and a professional internship at one of more than 55 top Twin Cities companies.

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About Genesys Works

Genesys Works Twin Cities is a nonprofit social enterprise providing opportunities for driven, low-income high school students through meaningful work experiences. Our program consists of eight weeks of technical and professional skills training, a paid year-long corporate internship, college and career coaching, and alumni support to and through college. In partnership with educational institutions and impactful businesses, we are transforming the workforce by creating inclusive opportunities in STEM careers – the fastest growing and most lucrative careers of our state. To learn more, visit genesysworks.org/twin-cities.

We love working with journalists and partners to share compelling stories. If you’re a member of the media and would like to talk, please get in touch with Courtney Stoesz, Marketing Manager, Genesys Works Twin Cities.
PHONE: (715) 307-2255
EMAIL: cstoesz@genesysworks.org