The document provides information about an Area Career Exploration event being held at Fairmont Jr./Sr. High School, including welcoming participants and thanking volunteers. It includes sections about career clusters, high-demand careers in the region, college and career resources, and details about participating businesses and organizations at the event. The goal is to help students explore career opportunities in their local area.

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April 7, 2010
Fairmont Jr./Sr. High School

2. Area Career Exploration Sponsors
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3. Welcome To The Area Career Exploration
Dear ACE Participants,
We are excited to have you participate in our Area Career Exploration (ACE). Our mission is to make you aware of career opportunities in this
area.
There will be a chance to have face-to-face interactions with area employers and ask about the countless
career opportunities available to you. Education representatives will provide you with information needed to
obtain the skills necessary for the career opportunities that interest you.
Our area, which is your area, is a great place to work, live and have fun. We have several great cultural
events, types of recreation, and we are close to many other attractive activities. This area is rich in history
with countless great employment opportunities.
Our area is country living at its best. We hope you enjoy your experience at the Area Career Exploration, that
ACE introduces you to opportunities in the area that interest you, and you consider becoming a part of the
area.
So, explore … set your goals … develop your talents … and think about the opportunities in the area.
We wish you well in your journey, and we will always welcome you back.
Garey Ferguson Bob Wallace
Business Service Specialist President
Department of Employment & Economic Development Fairmont Area Chamber of Commerce
Marcia Bay Denise Felder
ISEEK Partner Communications & Training Director ACE Resource Guide Chair & MnCareers Editor
iSeek Solutions iSeek Solutions
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4. Thanks To Our 2010 Area Career Exploration Volunteers
ACE EVENT COORDINATORS:
• Garey Ferguson, Department of Employment & Economic Development (DEED) - 507-235-3653 - garey.ferguson@state.mn.us
• Bob Wallace, Fairmont Area Chamber of Commerce - 507-235-5547 - bob@fairmontchamber.org
ACE EXECUTIVE COMMITTEE: ACE EVENT DAY COMMITTEE:
• Marcia Bay, iSeek Solutions • American Association of University Women (AAUW)
• Garey Ferguson, DEED • Marcia Bay, iSeek Solutions
• Butch Hanson, Fairmont Area Schools • Judy Beckman, AAUW
• Mike Humpal, Fairmont Economic Development Authority (FEDA) • Dan Brookens, KSUM/KFMC
• Lynn Manske, Fairmont Area Schools • Tim Clements, Shopko
• Dave Paschke, Fairmont Area Schools • Roni Dauer, Fairmont Community Education & Recreation
• Bob Wallace, Fairmont Area Chamber of Commerce • Garey Ferguson, DEED
• Heather Gleason, South Central WorkForce Council
ACE RESOURCE GUIDE CONTENT: • Callie Goerndt, Fairmont Area Chamber of Commerce
• Jennifer Bendix, Minnesota West Community & Technical College • Butch Hanson, Fairmont Area Schools
• Denise Felder, Chair, iSeek Solutions • Tammie Hested, Minnesota Valley Action Council
• Callie Goerndt, Fairmont Area Chamber of Commerce • Connie Hines, Minnesota Workforce Center
• Jennifer Ridgeway, DEED • Shirley Jordison, Minnesota WorkForce Center
• Garey Ferguson, DEED • Char Kahler, Char Commercial Art
• Bob Wallace, Fairmont Area Chamber of Commerce • Lynn Manske, Fairmont Area Schools
• Jo Moltzen, AAUW
ACE RESOURCE GUIDE COVER/LOGO DESIGN: • Linda Paplinski, AAUW
• Char Kahler, Char Commercial Art • Vicki Paskey, Minnesota Valley Action Council
• Jennifer Ridgeway, DEED
ACE RESOURCE GUIDE PRINTING: • Tom Steffes, Fairmont Area Chamber of Commerce
• Norwood Publishing • Lawerence Sukalski, Martin County IGNITE
• Bob Wallace, Fairmont Area Chamber of Commerce
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5. ACE Volunteers
FINANCIAL COMMITTEE: • Lynn Manske, Fairmont Area Schools
• Roni Dauer, Fairmont Community Education & Recreation • Dave Paschke, Fairmont Area Schools
• Garey Ferguson, DEED • Jenny Schwieger, Fairmont Area Schools
• Mike Humpal, Fairmont Economic Development Association • Lee Stewart, Fairmont Area Schools
• Lynn Manske, Fairmont Area Schools • Dave Ternberg, Fairmont Area Schools
• Tim Penney, Southern Minnesota Initiative Foundation - SMIF
• Tom Steffes, Fairmont Area Chamber of Commerce ACE EVENT MARKETING:
• Lawrence Sukalski, Martin County IGNITE • Garey Ferguson, DEED
• Bob Wallace, Fairmont Area Chamber of Commerce • Bob Wallace, Fairmont Area Chamber of Commerce
• Gary Anderson, Sentinel
EDUCATION COMMITTEE:
• Jennifer Bendix, Minnesota West Community & Technical College
• Kristi Brandt, Fairmont Area Schools
• Scott Geerdes, Fairmont Area Schools
• Butch Hanson, Fairmont Area Schools
• Traci Lardy, Presentation College — Fairmont
• Lynn Manske, Fairmont Area Schools
• Jenny Schwieger, Fairmont Area Schools
FAIRMONT AREA SCHOOL VOLUNTEERS:
• Sheila Artner, Fairmont Area Schools
• Kristi Brandt, Fairmont Area Schools
• Mark Borchardt, Fairmont Area Schools
• Holly Christian, Fairmont Area Schools
• Scott Geerdes, Fairmont Area Schools
• Butch Hanson, Fairmont Area Schools
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6. Ace Resource Guide Table Of Contents
Welcome 2 Thanks to ACE Volunteers 3
Career Clusters & High-Demand Occupations
What is a Career Cluster? 6 Career Cluster Interest Survey 7
Career Cluster Graphic 14 Agriculture, Food & Natural Resources 15
Architecture & Construction 17 Arts, A/V & Communications 19
Business, Management & Administration 21 Education & Training 23
Finance 25 Government & Public Administration 27
Health Sciences 29 Hospitality & Tourism 31
Human Services 33 Information Technology 35
Law, Public Safety, Corrections & Security 37 Manufacturing 39
Marketing, Sales & Service 41 Science, Technology, Engineering & Mathematics 43
Transportation, Distribution & Logistics 45 Green Careers in Minnesota 47
High-Demand Careers in South Central Minnesota 49
College, Career & Job Search Resources
Education Planning & College Resources 51 South Central Minnesota College Resources 52
Career Exploration & Job Search Resources 53 Minnesota Job Banks & Employment Websites 55
National Job Banks & Employment Websites 56
ACE Event Information
ACE Participating Colleges 57 ACE Participating Businesses 59
ACE Map of Fairmont High School 66 Career Fair Questions 64
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7. What Is A Career Cluster?
Where do you start when choosing a career? With the number of career choices out there, it helps to orga-
nize your options.
Career clusters are one way to group career paths. Careers with common features are in the same cluster.
The 16 Career Clusters can be used during career exploration as a way to find your best
career match.
Look at the circular graphic on page 14 to see how all the career fields, career clusters and pathways fit
together.
How Can Career Clusters Help Me?
» Six Career Fields are the broadest level of career options. They’re a good place to get started exploring.
» Underneath those six career fields are 16 Career Clusters. This is where you can get more details about careers paths that interest you.
Careers that need the same knowledge and skills are grouped in the same cluster. Each cluster can include hundreds of different careers.
» Each career cluster includes one or more of the 81 Minnesota Career Pathways. A pathway is a group of related career specialties within
a career cluster. A pathway has its own knowledge and skill requirements. Educational programs can be developed around each pathway.
These programs are called Programs of Study, and can include high school and college courses based on industry expectations and skill
standards.
» The center of the career pathways graphic (page 14) shows Knowledge and Foundation Skills. These are a core set of skills needed to be
ready for work and college.
If you don’t know how to start, take the Career Clusters Interest Survey on page 7. This survey asks a few simple questions to match your interests
to career clusters.
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8. Career Clusters Interest Survey
Name Grade
School Date
Directions
1. Circle the items in each box that best describe you. In each box you may circle as many items as you want.
2. Add the number of circles in each box.
3. After you’ve reviewed the whole survey, find your three boxes with the highest numbers and record those on page 13.
4. Discover more about the Career Clusters that matched your interests on pages 15-46.
Activities that describe what I like to do: Personal qualities that School subjects I like: Total
1. Learn how things grow and stay alive. describe me: 1. Math number
2. Make the best use of the earth’s natural resources. 1. Self-reliant 2. Life Sciences circled in
Box A
3. Hunt and/or fish. 2. Nature lover 3. Earth Sciences Box A
4. Protect the environment. 3. Physically active 4. Chemistry
5. Be outdoors in all kinds of weather. 4. Planner 5. Agriculture
6. Plan, budget, and keep records. 5. Creative problem-solver
7. Operate machines and keep them in good repair.
Activities that describe what I like to do: Personal qualities that School subjects I like: Total
1. Read and follow blueprints and/or instructions. describe me: 1. Math number
2. Picture in my mind what a finished product looks like. 1. Curious 2. Drafting circled in
Box B
3. Work with my hands. 2. Good at following 3. Physical Sciences Box B
4. Perform work that requires precise results. directions 4. Construction Trades
5. Solve technical problems. 3. Pay attention to detail 5. Electrical Trades / Heat, Air
6. Visit and learn from beautiful, historic, or interesting 4. Good at visualizing Conditioning and
buildings. possibilities Refrigeration /
7. Follow logical, step-by-step procedures. 5. Patient and persistent Technology Education
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9. Activities that describe what I like to do: Personal qualities that de- School subjects I like: Total
1. Use my imagination to communicate new scribe me: 1. Art / Graphic design number
information to others. 1. Creative and imaginative 2. Music circled in
2. Perform in front of others. 2. Good communicator/good 3. Speech and Drama Box B
Box C
3. Read and write. vocabulary 4. Journalism / Literature
4. Play a musical instrument. 3. Curious about new 5. Audiovisual Technologies
5. Perform creative, artistic activities. technology
6. Use video and recording technology. 4. Relate well to feelings and
7. Design brochures and posters. thoughts of others
5. Determined / tenacious
Activities that describe what I like to do: Personal qualities that de- School subjects I like: Total
1. Perform routine, organized activities but can be flexible. scribe me: 1. Computer Applications / number
2. Work with numbers and detailed information. 1. Organized Business and Information circled in
Box D
3. Be the leader in a group. 2. Practical and logical Technology Box D
4. Make business contact with people. 3. Patient 2. Accounting
5. Work with computer programs. 4. Tactful 3. Math
6. Create reports and communicate ideas. 5. Responsible 4. English
7. Plan my work and follow instructions without close su- 5. Economics
pervision.
Activities that describe what I like to do: Personal qualities that de- School subjects I like: Total
1. Communicate with different types of people. scribe me: 1. Language Arts number
2. Help others with their homework or to learn new things. 1. Friendly 2. Social Studies circled in
Box E
3. Go to school. 2. Decision maker 3. Math Box E
4. Direct and plan activities for others. 3. Helpful 4. Science
5. Handle several responsibilities at once. 4. Innovative/Inquisitive 5. Psychology
6. Acquire new information. 5. Good listener
7. Help people overcome their challenges.
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10. Activities that describe what I like to do: Personal qualities that de- School subjects I like: Total
1. Work with numbers. scribe me: 1. Accounting number
2. Work to meet a deadline. 1. Trustworthy 2. Math circled in
3. Make predictions based on existing facts. 2. Orderly 3. Economics Box F
Box F
4. Have a framework of rules by which to operate. 3. Self-confident 4. Banking / Financial
5. Analyze financial information and interpret it to 4. Logical Services
others. 5. Methodical or efficient 5. Business Law
6. Handle money with accuracy and reliability.
7. Take pride in the way I dress and look.
Activities that describe what I like to do: Personal qualities that de- School subjects I like: Total
1. Be involved in politics. scribe me: 1. Government number
2. Negotiate, defend, and debate ideas and topics. 1. Good communicator 2. Language Arts circled in
Box G
3. Plan activities and work cooperatively with others 2. Competitive 3. History Box G
4. Work with details. 3. Service minded 4. Math
5. Perform a variety of duties that may change often 4. Well organized 5. Foreign Language
6. Analyze information and interpret it to others. 5. Problem solver
7. Travel and see things that are new to me.
Activities that describe what I like to do: Personal qualities that de- School subjects I like: Total
1. Work under pressure. scribe me: 1. Biological Sciences number
2. Help sick people and animals. 1. Compassionate and 2. Chemistry circled in
3. Make decisions based on logic and information. caring 3. Math Box H
Box H
4. Participate in health and science classes. 2. Good at following 4. Occupational Health class-
5. Respond quickly and calmly in emergencies. directions es
6. Work as a member of a team. 3. Conscientious and 5. Language Arts
7. Follow guidelines precisely and meet strict careful
standards of accuracy. 4. Patient
5. Good listener
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11. Activities that describe what I like to do: Personal qualities that de- School subjects I like: Total
1. Investigate new places and activities. scribe me: 1. Language Arts/Speech number
2. Work with all ages and types of people. 1. Tactful 2. Foreign Language circled in
3. Organize activities in which other people enjoy 2. Self-motivated 3. Social Science Box I
Box I
themselves. 3. Works well with others 4. Marketing
4. Have a flexible schedule. 4. Outgoing 5. Food Services
5. Help people make up their minds. 5. Slow to anger
6. Communicate easily, tactfully, and courteously.
7. Learn about other cultures.
Activities that describe what I like to do: Personal qualities that de- School subjects I like: Total
1. Care about people, their needs, and their problems scribe me: 1. Language Arts number
2. Participate in community services and/or 1. Good communicator/good 2. Psychology/Sociology circled in
volunteering. listener 3. Family and Consumer Sci- Box J
Box J
3. Listen to other people’s viewpoints. 2. Caring ences
4. Help people be at their best. 3. Non-materialistic 4. Finance
5. Work with people from preschool age to old age. 4. Uses intuition and logic 5. Foreign Language
6. Think of new ways to do things. 5. Non-judgmental
7. Make friends with different kinds of people.
Activities that describe what I like to do: Personal qualities that de- School subjects I like: Total
1. Work with computers. scribe me: 1. Math number
2. Reason clearly and logically to solve complex 1. Logic / analytical thinker 2. Science circled in
problems. 2. See details in the big 3. Computer Tech / Box K
Box K
3. Use machines, techniques, and processes. picture Applications
4. Read technical materials and diagrams and solve tech- 3. Persistent 4. Communications
nical problems. 4. Good concentration skills 5. Graphic Design
5. Adapt to change. 5. Precise and accurate
6. Play video games and figure out how they work.
7. Concentrate for long periods without being
distracted.
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12. Activities that describe what I like to do: Personal qualities that de- School subjects I like: Total
1. Work under pressure or in the face of danger. scribe me: 1. Language Arts number
2. Make decisions based on my own observations. 1. Adventurous 2. Psychology/Sociology circled in
Box L
3. Interact with other people. 2. Dependable 3. Government/History Box L
4. Be in positions of authority. 3. Community-minded 4. Law Enforcement
5. Respect rules and regulations. 4. Decisive 5. First Aid / First
6. Debate and win arguments. 5. Optimistic 6. Responder
7. Observe and analyze people’s behavior.
Activities that describe what I like to do: Personal qualities that de- School subjects I like: Total
1. Work with my hands and learn that way. scribe me: 1. Math-Geometry number
2. Put things together. 1. Practical 2. Chemistry circled in
3. Do routine, organized and accurate work. 2. Observant 3. Trade and Industry Box M
Box M
4. Perform activities that produce tangible results. 3. Physically active courses
5. Apply math to work out solutions. 4. Step-by-step thinker 4. Physics
6. Use hand and power tools and operate equipment / 5. Coordinated 5. Language Arts
machinery.
7. Visualize objects in three dimensions from flat
drawings.
Activities that describe what I like to do: Personal qualities that de- School subjects I like: Total
1. Shop and go to the mall. scribe me: 1. Language Arts number
2. Be in charge. 1. Enthusiastic 2. Math circled in
3. Make displays and promote ideas. 2. Competitive 3. Business Education / Box N
Box N
4. Give presentations and enjoy public speaking. 3. Creative 4. Marketing
5. Persuade people to buy products or to participate in 4. Self-motivated 5. Economics
activities. 5. Persuasive 6. Computer Applications
6. Communicate my ideas to other people.
7. Take advantage of opportunities to make extra
money.
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13. Activities that describe what I like to do: Personal qualities that de- School subjects I like: Total
1. Interpret formulas. scribe me: 1. Math number
2. Find the answers to questions. 1. Detail oriented 2. Science circled in
Box O
3. Work in a laboratory. 2. Inquisitive 3. Drafting/Computer-Aided Box O
4. Figure out how things work and investigate new things. 3. Objective Drafting
5. Explore new technology. 4. Methodical 4. Electronics/Computer
6. Experiment to find the best way to do something. 5. Mechanically inclined 5. Networking
7. Pay attention to details and help things be precise. 6. Technical Classes /
7. Technology Education
Activities that describe what I like to do: Personal qualities that de- School subjects I like: Total
1. Travel. scribe me: 1. Math number
2. See well and have quick reflexes. 1. Realistic 2. Trade and Industry courses circled in
Box P
3. Solve mechanical problems. 2. Mechanical 3. Physical Sciences Box P
4. Design efficient processes. 3. Coordinated 4. Economics
5. Anticipate needs and prepare to meet them. 4. Observant 5. Foreign Language
6. Drive or ride. 5. Planner
7. Move things from one place to another.
• Record your top three boxes on the bottom of page 13.
Disclaimer: Your interests may change over time. These survey results are intended to assist you with informal career exploration. Consider more
formal assessments and other resources or services to help you plan your career. This survey does not make any claims of statistical reliability.
Note: This survey does not make any claims of statistical reliability and has not been normed. It is intended for use as a guidance tool to generate
discussion regarding careers and is valid for that purpose.
Source: Adapted from the Guidance Division Survey, Oklahoma Department of Career and Technology Education (2005)
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14. Career Clusters Interest Survey - Results
Directions: Record your totals from each box on pages 7-12 below. Look through the information about your top three Clusters on pages 15-46.
When you attend ACE, visit the career exhibitors that match your top three clusters.
Pages 15-16 Box A _____ Pages 31-32 Box I _____
Agriculture, Food & Natural Resources Hospitality & Tourism
Pages 17-18 Box B _____ Pages 33-34 Box J _____
Architecture & Construction Human Services
Pages 19-20 Box C _____ Pages 35-36 Box K _____
Arts, A/V Technology & Communications Information Technology
Pages 21-22 Box D _____ Pages 37-38 Box L _____
Business, Management & Administration Law, Public Safety & Security
Pages 23-24 Box E _____ Pages 39-40 Box M _____
Education & Training Manufacturing
Pages 25-26 Box F _____ Pages 41-42 Box N _____
Finance Marketing, Sales & Service
Pages 27-28 Box G _____ Pages 43-44 Box O _____
Government & Public Administration Science, Technology, Engineering & Mathematics
Pages 29-30 Box H _____ Pages 45-46 Box P _____
Health Science Transportation, Distribution & Logistics
My top three Career Clusters of interest are:
1. 2. 3.
__________________________________ __________________________________ _________________________________
For more information, check with a career counselor at your high school, college or job training program, community agency, or WorkForce Center.
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16. Agriculture, Food & Natural Resources
Do you enjoy working with animals? Are you interested in protecting the environment?
Cluster Description:
Skills Used in this Cluster:
Agriculture, food, and natural resources workers produce agricultural goods. This includes food, plants,
animals, fabrics, wood, and crops. You might work on a farm, ranch, dairy, orchard, greenhouse, or plant • Computer skills to use related
nursery. You could also work in a clinic or laboratory as a scientist or engineer. Some agriculture, food, and technology and software.
natural resources workers market, sell, or finance agricultural goods. • Patience and cooperation
skills for working with people
and animals.
Ways to Explore this Cluster:
• Physical stamina for heavy
• Join a group concerned with environmental issues like living or renewable energy.
lifting, carrying and working
• Job shadow or volunteer at a local animal shelter.
with large machinery.
• Get involved with the National Future Farmers of America Organization (www.ffa.org) or Foremost
Farms (www.foremostfarms.com). • Problem-solving skills to deal
• Volunteer to care for flowers at the local park. with weather-related compli-
• Take a class related to: cations or animal wellness is-
◦ Agricultural Business sues.
◦ Agriculture Technology • Science skills to know rules
◦ Animal Science and methods for working with
◦ Natural Resources Management natural resources.
◦ Environmental Science
ACE Participating Businesses:
◦ Fairmont Veterinary Clinic ◦ Hawkeye Sow Center
◦ Martin County Pork Producers ◦ Martin County Soil & Water Conservation District
◦ Natural Resources Conservation Service ◦ Rural Advantage
◦ WFS
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17. Agriculture, Food & Natural Resources
Career Title Description Annual Low/ Education/Training Job Outlook
Median Wages
On-the-Job Training
Plant and harvest crops, or care for
Farm and Ranch Animals Most learn working on farms.
livestock. Responsible for $19,395 / $22,854
Farmworkers College education optional for
equipment and supplies.
specialized tasks.
Assist with animal breeding and nutri-
tion work; under supervision, conduct Associate Degree
Agricultural and Food
tests to improve yield and quality of $29,618 / $33,426 Most have 2-year degree in
Science Technicians
crops or increase the resistance of applied science or technology.
plants and animals to disease.
Operate or tend food or tobacco
Food & Tobacco
roasting, baking, or drying On-the-Job Training
Roasting, Baking &
equipment, including hearth ovens, $18,234 / $27,046 Most receive short-term
Drying Machine
kiln driers, roasters, char kilns, and training.
Operators
vacuum drying equipment.
Repair and install heating, air 1-2 Years
Heating & Cooling conditioning, refrigeration systems, Most complete 1-2 years at a
$41,268 / $48,360
System Mechanics oil burners, hot-air furnaces and technical college. Others train
heating stoves. on the job.
Adjust and repair cranes, bulldozers, 1-2 Years
Heavy Equipment graders and conveyors used in Most have degree in diesel
$34,363 / $45,261
Mechanics construction, logging and surface mechanics or automotive
mining. repair.
Plant and take care of flowers,
On-the-Job Training
shrubs and trees on large
Landscapers & Most receive short-term
properties, grassy fields or private $19,187 / $21,410
Groundskeepers training on the job. Certification
lawns. Might also shovel and
for some tasks required.
remove snow.
Help engineers to design, test and
Associate Degree
assess engines, machines or other
Mechanical Engineering Most have 2-year degree in
products. Might do research, read $35,612 / $43,976
Technicians engineering technology. Work
blueprints, build prototypes and
experience helps.
record data.
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18. Architecture & Construction
Do you like to create models or make designs? Do you like to work with tools, objects, and numbers?
Cluster Description: Skills Used in this Cluster:
Architecture and construction workers work on buildings and other structures. This includes highways,
bridges, houses, and buildings. You might create the designs or plans for new structures. Or, you might use • Customer service skills are
the plans to build it or manage the workers on the project. Some architecture and construction workers do used by independent contrac-
skilled trades, like carpentry, painting, or plumbing. Or, you might work as a landscaper and take care of tors to relate to clients.
flowers and trees on large properties. • Dependability to be on time
and work well with others.
• Manual dexterity is neces-
Ways to Explore this Cluster: sary to fit pieces of various
• Do home-repair projects. sizes together and use a vari-
• Job shadow at an architecture or home design firm. ety of tools.
• Read trade magazines to stay current on major construction projects and trends.
• Start a lawn mowing service. • Mathematics is used every
• Take a class related to: day to quickly compute simple
◦ Blueprint Reading calculations and measure-
◦ Business Computer Applications ments.
◦ Computer-Assisted Design (CAD) • Problem-solving skills are
◦ Geometry needed to finish the project
◦ Technical Writing even when a dilemma occurs.
ACE Participating Businesses:
◦ Beemer Companies, Inc. ◦ Carpenters - Local 464
◦ Day Plumbing, Heating and Cooling, Inc. ◦ Operating Engineers - Local 49
◦ Pipefitters - Local 455 ◦ Plumbers - Local 34
◦ Sheet Metal Workers - Local 10 ◦ Tech Builders, Inc.
17

19. Architecture & Construction
Career Title Description Annual Low/ Education/Training Job Outlook
Median Wages
Apprenticeship
Cut, fit and assemble wood and other
Most complete an
materials to construct
Carpenters $30,778 / $37,051 apprenticeship or train for
buildings, houses, fixtures or
18-22 months at a technical
equipment.
college.
Prepare cost estimates for
product manufacturing,
Bachelor’s Degree
construction projects, or
Cost Estimators $36,192 / $48,487 Most have 4-year degree in a
services to aid management in
related field.
bidding on or determining price
of product or service.
Install, maintain or fix electrical Apprenticeship
systems or fixtures. Ensure Most complete 3-5 year
Electricians $38,103 / $47,714
work complies with building apprenticeship.
codes. License required.
Repair and install heating, air 1-2 Years
Heating & Cooling conditioning, refrigeration Most complete 1-2 years at a
$41,268 / $48,360
System Mechanics systems, oil burners, hot-air technical college. Others train
furnaces and heating stoves. on the job.
Build, install or repair pipe
Apprenticeship
systems carrying water, steam,
Most complete 4-5 year
Plumbers & Pipefitters air or other liquids or gasses. $35,164 / $43,454
apprenticeship. Math skills
Systems can be metal, plastic
needed.
or ceramic.
Operate or maintain stationary
engines, boilers, or other
mechanical equipment to On-the-Job Training
Stationary Engineers &
provide utilities for buildings or $40,510 / $45,752 Some complete formal job
Boiler Operators
industrial processes such as genera- training programs.
tors, motors, turbines,
and steam boilers.
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20. ARTS, A/V TECHNOLOGY & COMMUNICATIONS
Is artistic expression important to you? Do you like to work with technology?
Cluster Description: Skills Used in this Cluster:
Arts, audio/video technology, and communications workers use creativity and their talents on the job. You
might work for an audience as a performer or artist. This includes painters, dancers, sculptors, actors, and • Customer service skills are
singers. Or, you might work behind the scenes to make a performance successful. This includes set design- used by independent contrac-
ers, editors, broadcast technicians, and camera operators. Some audio/video technology and communica- tors to relate to clients.
tions workers have high-profile jobs. Or, you might use your creative talents with technology and work as an • Dependability to be on time
animator, graphic designer, or film editor. and work well with others.
• Manual dexterity is neces-
sary to fit pieces of various
Ways to Explore this Cluster: sizes together and use a vari-
• Join a community theatre group. ety of tools.
• Seek opportunities at a campus radio station, community cable TV station, web venture or local news-
paper. • Mathematics is used every
• Volunteer to teach multimedia, art, music or dance classes. day to quickly compute simple
• Write a blog or publish original fiction, drawings, photography or videos. calculations and measure-
• Take a class related to: ments.
◦ Band, Chorus or Music • Problem-solving skills are
◦ Creative Writing needed to finish the project
◦ Interactive Media and Web Design even when a dilemma occurs.
◦ Mass Media Marketing
◦ Public Speaking
ACE Participating Businesses:
◦ AdMfg ◦ KSUM/KFMC Radio
◦ Sauck Media Group ◦ Seifried Portrait Design
◦ Sentinel
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21. ARTS, A/V TECHNOLOGY & COMMUNICATIONS
Career Title Description Annual Low/ Education/Training Job Outlook
Median Wages
Format typescript and graphic 2-4 Years
elements using computer Most receive formal training or
Desktop Publishers $25,140 / $30,683
software to produce earn a degree. Internships or
publication-ready material. work experience is essential.
Create designs using print,
Bachelor’s Degree
electronic and film media for
Most have degree in art or
Graphic Designers commercial or promotional $28,541 / $31,890
design. Portfolio
needs, including packaging,
recommended.
displays or logos.
Set up or operate printing 2-4 Years
machines, like offset, letterset Most train through 2-year
Printing Press Operators $22,183 / $26,152
or screen printers, to print on associate’s degree or
paper or other materials. apprenticeship.
1-2 Years
Telecommunications Service or repair telephones
Most complete 1-2 years at a
Equipment Installers and and other communication $37,284 / $43,268
technical college. Others train
Repair equipment in homes or offices.
on the job.
Teach courses in drama,
music, and the arts including Master’s Degree
University & College Art,
fine and applied art, such as $47,755 / $62,602 Most have degree in education
Drama & Music Teachers
painting and sculpture, or or a subject area.
design and crafts.
20

22. BUSINESS, MANAGEMENT & ADMINISTRATION
Do you enjoy working with other people? Do you like to plan and organize activities?
Cluster Description: Skills Used in this Cluster:
Business, management, and administrative workers give the support needed to make a business run. You
might check employee time records or train new employees. Or, you might work as a top executive and • Computer skills to use rele-
provide the overall direction for a company or department. There are many types of jobs at all levels. For vant software and technology.
example, you might manage the financial activities of a business, direct the public to specific people or de- • Critical-thinking skills for
partments, or record incoming and outgoing shipments. problem-solving and generat-
ing new ideas.
• Leadership skills to be willing
Ways to Explore this Cluster: to do extra tasks and make
• Participate in a school or charity fundraiser. timely decisions.
• Join Junior Achievement.
• Use school assignments and extra-curricular activities to practice managing workflow and timelines. • Cooperation skills to work on
• Start your own business. projects with coworkers.
• Take a class related to: • Speaking skills to effectively
◦ Algebra I and II relay information to customers
◦ Business Law and coworkers.
◦ International Business
◦ Office Procedures
◦ Public Speaking
ACE Participating Businesses:
◦ City of Fairmont ◦ Federated Rural Electric
◦ Preferred Capital Management ◦ Rosen’s Inc.
21

23. BUSINESS, MANAGEMENT & ADMINISTRATION
Career Title Description Annual Low/ Education/Training Job Outlook
Median Wages
Conduct programs of
compensation and benefits
Compensation, Benefits Bachelor’s Degree
and job analysis for employer.
& Job Analysis $38,917 / $46,405 Many have 4-year degree
May specialize in specific areas,
Specialists related to human relations
such as position classification
and pension programs.
Recruit and place workers.
Bachelor’s Degree
Employment, Might work for a human
Most have 4-year degree in
Recruitment & resources department, $35,316 / $40,494
human development, HR or
Placement Specialists headhunter or nonprofit
business.
employment service.
Provide high-level
administrative support by
conducting research, preparing
reports, handling information On-the-Job Training
Executive Secretaries &
requests, and performing Most advance with previous
Administrative $31,398 / $37,076
clerical functions such as experience or knowledge of the
Assistants
preparing correspondence, company.
receiving visitors, arranging
conference calls, and scheduling
meetings.
Varies
Payroll & Timekeeping Check employee time records, record Most receive training at a
$28,379 / $34,472
Clerks payroll data and prepare paychecks. community or technical college.
Others train on the job.
22

24. EDUCATION & TRAINING
Are you outgoing? Do you like being in school?
Cluster Description: Skills Used in this Cluster:
Education and training workers guide and train people. As a teacher, you could influence young lives. You
could also support the work of a classroom teacher as a counselor, librarian, or principal. You could coach • Creativity and enthusiasm
sports activities or lead community classes. You could also work with adults. For example, you could lead to keep students interested in
training to employees in a business. Or you could work as a university or college professor for undergradu- materials.
ate or graduate students. • Flexibility to present materi-
als and concepts in a variety
of ways to different people.
Ways to Explore this Cluster: • Organization skills to create
• Coach a sports team. lesson plans and track stu-
• Teach a class at a community center. dents’ progress and problems.
• Tutor a family member or neighborhood youth.
• Volunteer at a library or literacy program. • Self-confidence to stand in
• Take a class related to: front of people and speak.
◦ Child Development • Tolerance to deal with unmo-
◦ Cultural/Ethnic Studies tivated or disruptive students
◦ Psychology and changing educational
◦ Safety and First Aid guidelines.
◦ World Languages
ACE Participating Businesses:
◦ Fairmont Area Schools ◦ Fairmont Community Education & Recreation
◦ ISEEK ◦ Minnesota West Community & Technical College -
Canby, Fairmont and Jackson
◦ Minnesota West Community & Technical College - Fire ◦ Presentation College - Fairmont
Safety
◦ Rasmussen College ◦ Ridgewater College
◦ Riverland Community & College
23

25. EDUCATION & TRAINING
Career Title Description Annual Low/ Education/Training Job Outlook
Median Wages
Master’s Degree
Help students with career and Most have a master’s degree
School Counselors education choices, and personal and $43,442 / $50,828 in counseling or education.
social problems License required.
Instruct and motivate athletic groups or Varies
Fitness Trainers & individuals. Demonstrate techniques Most have certificates or
$17,992 / $20,342
Aerobics Instructors and evaluate performance. Exclude degrees plus experience.
Athletic Trainers.
Bachelor’s Degree
Teach children from 4-6 years old.
Most have degree in education.
Prepare for elementary school or teach
Preschool Teachers $19,887 / $26,973 Varies by school type. License
basic science, art, music, math and
required.
reading.
Teach courses pertaining to Master’s Degree
education, such as counseling, Some have master’s degree.
University & College
curriculum, guidance, instruction, $42,266 / $57,509 Others have 8-year doctoral
Education Teachers
teacher education, and teaching degree in a specific field.
English as a second language.
Master’s Degree
University & College Teach courses in English language Some have master’s degree.
English Language & and literature, including linguistics and $45,378 / $60,109 Others have 8-year doctoral
Literature Teachers comparative literature. degree in a specific field.
24

26. FINANCE
Do you enjoy working with numbers? Are you comfortable following detailed plans?
Cluster Description: Skills Used in this Cluster:
Finance workers keep track of money. You might work in financial planning, banking, or insurance. For
example, you might provide financial services to a business or individual. Or, you could maintain financial • Accuracy skills for dealing
records or give advice to business executives on how to operate their business. with numbers and money.
• Computer skills for spread-
sheet and financial software
Ways to Explore this Cluster: along with standard office pro-
• Join a local investment club. grams.
• Manage your own checking account. • Discretion to protect custom-
• Take a class in personal finance. ers’ personal information.
• Volunteer or get elected treasurer of an organization.
• Take a class related to: • Instructional skills for advis-
◦ Accounting ing people about investment
◦ Algebra I and II opportunities.
◦ Business Computer Applications • Mathematics skills to calcu-
◦ International Business late transactions.
◦ Statistics
ACE Participating Businesses:
◦ AgStar Financial Services, ACA ◦ Bank Midwest
◦ Borchardt Agency, Inc. ◦ First Farmers & Merchants National Bank
◦ Peterson Anthony Insurance Agency, Inc. ◦ Profinium Financial
◦ State Bank of Fairmont ◦ US Bank
◦ Wells Federal Bank
25

27. FINANCE
Career Title Description Annual Low/ Education/Training Job Outlook
Median Wages
On-the-Job Training
Find and notify customers behind on
Most receive short-term
payments. Might receive payments,
Bill & Account Collectors $24,013 / $28,856 training on the job. College
prepare statements, start repossession
courses helpful for
procedures or keep records.
advancement.
Review settled claims to determine
that payments and settlements have Varies
Claims Adjusters,
been made in accordance with Most have certificates or
Examiners & $46,965 / $54,926
company practices and procedures. degrees plus experience.
Investigators
Report overpayments, underpayments,
and other irregularities.
Plan, direct, and coordinate account- Bachelor’s Degree
ing, investing, banking, insurance, Most have 4-year degree or
Financial Managers securities, and other financial activities $81,190 / $99,339 higher in a related field and
of a branch, office, or department of an extensive work experience.
establishment.
Bachelor’s Degree
Sell policies that provide financial pro- Most have a 4-year degree in
Insurance Agents tection for people or property in case $34,462 / $37,410 business or economics.
of death, accidents or acts of nature. License required.
Interview persons desiring to open On-the-Job Training
bank accounts. Explain banking Most receive short-term train-
New Accounts Clerks services available to prospective $27,067 / $29,554 ing on the job. College courses
customers and assist them in helpful for advancement.
preparing application form.
26

28. GOVERNMENT & PUBLIC ADMINISTRATION
Do you like to plan and organize activities? Are rules and laws important to you?
Cluster Description: Skills Used in this Cluster:
Government and public administration workers help pass and enforce the law. You could work in national,
state, or local government. You will find almost every type of occupation within the government, including • Communication skills for ef-
some jobs that are only found within government. For example, you might inspect new or remodeled build- fective writing, speaking and
ings for safety, help people file the paperwork for a marriage license, or create proposals for urban develop- listening to clients and co-
ment. workers.
• Confidentiality to guard cli-
ents’ and organizations’ pri-
Ways to Explore this Cluster: vate information.
• Attend city government meetings. • Critical-thinking skills when
• Join the debate team. making decisions about the
• Go on a work-site visit to a local courthouse or city hall. lives of others and possible
• Run for student government or an organization’s board. consequences.
• Take a class related to:
◦ Cultural/Ethnic Studies • Organization and time man-
◦ Economics agement skills to complete
◦ Political Science multiple projects on time.
◦ U.S. and World History • Patience when working on
◦ World Languages projects with many obstacles
or that take a long time to
complete.
ACE Participating Businesses:
◦ City of Blue Earth ◦ City of Fairmont ◦ City of Winnebago
◦ Department of Employment & ◦ Fairmont WorkForce Center ◦ Labor Market Information
Economic Development
◦ Martin County ◦ Minnesota Department of ◦ Minnesota National Guard
Employment & Economic
Development
◦ US Army ◦ US Marines ◦ US Navy
27

29. GOVERNMENT & PUBLIC ADMINISTRATION
Career Title Description Annual Low/ Education/Training Job Outlook
Median Wages
Plan, direct, or coordinate
supportive services of an
Bachelor’s Degree
organization, such as
Administrative Services Most have 4-year degree or
recordkeeping, mail $58,443 / $68,718
Managers higher in a related field and
distribution, telephone
extensive work experience.
operator/receptionist, and
other office support services.
Plan, direct, or coordinate the
operations of companies or
Bachelor’s Degree
organizations. Duties can
General & Operations Most have 4-year degree or
include formulating policies, $58,983 / $78,263
Managers higher in a related field and
managing daily operations, and
extensive work experience.
planning use of materials and
human resources.
Plan and direct social service Bachelor’s Degree
programs for public and private Most have 4-year degree or
Social & Community
agencies. Oversee staff, $46,388 / $56,135 higher in counseling, social
Service Managers
volunteers, budgets and work, management or related
program activities. field.
Collect taxes from individuals
Bachelor’s Degree
Tax Examiners, and businesses. Follow state
Most have degree in
Collectors, and Revenue and federal laws and $37,149 / $50,461
accounting, business or related
Agents regulations to determine
field.
how much is owed.
28

30. HEALTH SCIENCE
Can you work fast in an emergency? Do you enjoy helping people?
Cluster Description: Skills Used in this Cluster:
Health science workers promote health and wellness. They diagnose and treat injuries and disease. As a
physician, dentist, or nurse, you could work directly with patients. You could also work in a laboratory to get • Computer and technical
information used in research or provide administrative support by keeping medical records. Health science skills to use office, lab and
jobs are found at a variety of different sites. For example, you could work in a hospital, office, clinic, or nurs- medical equipment, like X-ray
ing home. Or you could work on a cruise ship, at a sports arena, or within a patient’s home. machines.
• Detail orientation to notice
small changes in patients’
Ways to Explore this Cluster: symptoms or data records.
• Attend community health events about health issues or ailments. • Organization skills to man-
• Join a student organization like Health Occupation Students of America (www.hosa.org). age multiple projects and
• Participate in the Science Club. scheduled appointments.
• Volunteer at a hospital or nursing home.
• Take a class related to: • Physical stamina to stand for
◦ Anatomy and Physiology long periods of time and lift
◦ Computer Applications equipment and/or patients.
◦ Human Development • Speaking and listening skills
◦ Safety and First Aid/CPR to make sure patients under-
◦ World Languages stand treatments and medical
concepts.
ACE Participating Businesses:
◦ Anytime Fitness ◦ Associate Optometry, P.A.
◦ Burtis Chiropractic Center ◦ Carlson Dental Office
◦ Center For Specialty Care ◦ Fairmont Chiropractic and Acupuncture Health Care, Ltd.
◦ Fairmont Medical Center - Mayo Health System ◦ Lakeview Methodist Health Care Center
◦ Joseph E. Switras, Ph.D, P.A.
29

31. HEALTH SCIENCE
Career Title Description Annual Low/ Education/Training Job Outlook
Median Wages
Clean teeth and look for signs Associate Degree
of oral disease. Might instruct Most have 2-year degree.
Dental Hygienists $61,784 / $69,190
patients in tooth care, take X-rays Some have bachelor’s degree.
and apply fluoride or sealants. License required.
Plan diets and educate people Bachelor’s Degree
Dietitians and about nutrition. Might supervise Most have degree in nutrition
$44,098 / $49,364
Nutritionists food preparation for individuals, or food services management.
hospitals, schools or other facilities. License required.
Perform complex medical
Medical & Clinical laboratory tests for diagnosis, Bachelor’s Degree
Laboratory treatment and prevention of $46,019 / $51,346 Most have degree in medical
Technologists disease. Might train or technology or life sciences.
supervise staff.
Mix and dispense medications Professional Degree
following prescriptions issued Most have bachelor’s and
Pharmacists $109,916 / $119,755
by physicians, dentists or other complete a 4-year pharmacy
authorized medical practitioners. program. License required.
Assess and plan rehabilitative
Doctorate
programs that improve
Industry shifted from master’s
Physical Therapists mobility, relieve pain, and $61,271 / $68,421
degree to requiring 8-year
decrease deformity of patients
Ph.D. Licensed required.
with disease or injury.
Care for patients under supervision of Professional Degree
a physician. Might give physicals, Most have bachelor’s and
Physician Assistants $72,987 / $81,051
collect patient histories, counsel pa- complete a 2-year PA program.
tients or prescribe medications. License required.
Assess patient health and care 2-4 Years
for ill or injured patients. Might Most have associate or
Registered Nurses $52,552 / $62,101
advise patients on care bachelor’s degree.
management. License required.
30

32. HOSPITALITY & TOURISM
Have you worked in a restaurant? Do you like to plan family recreational activities?
Cluster Description: Skills Used in this Cluster:
Hospitality and tourism workers help people enjoy vacations and entertainment activities. You might work at
a restaurant, resort, sports arena, theme park, museum, or hotel. For example, you might manage opera- • Customer service skills to
tions of a college cafeteria, guide high school students on a trip to Spain, or rent equipment at a recreation deal effectively and courte-
center. ously with the public.
• Flexibility to handle unex-
pected and hectic situations.
Ways to Explore this Cluster: • Memorization skills for re-
• Help plan an event like a dance or charity event. membering orders, tables and
• Plan a family vacation. customers.
• Plan and cook meals for family or neighborhood events.
• Take a part-time job in a restaurant, amusement center or hotel. • Patience to satisfy custom-
• Take a class related to: ers’ expectations, particularly
◦ Family and Consumer Sciences those establishments depen-
◦ Geography dent on repeat business.
◦ International Business • Physical stamina to lift plat-
◦ Marketing ters of food or cooking pots
◦ Office Procedures and stand for long periods of
time.
ACE Participating Businesses:
◦ Comfort Inn ◦ Fairmont Convention & Visitors Bureau
◦ Hampton Inn ◦ Holiday Inn
◦ Perkins Restaurant ◦ Super 8
31

33. HOSPITALITY & TOURISM
Career Title Description Annual Low/ Education/Training Job Outlook
Median Wages
Varies
Plan, direct, or coordinate
Some complete 2-4 month
activities of an organization or
Food Service Managers $31,472 / $37,626 program at a community or
department that serves food
technical college. Work
and beverages.
experience necessary.
Accommodate patrons by
registering and assigning
rooms, transmitting and On-the-Job Training
Hotel, Motel, & Resort
receiving messages, keeping $17,517 / $18,912 Most receive short-term
Desk Clerks
records of accounts and training.
collecting payments from
departing guests.
Use hand tools to perform On-the-Job Training
Meat, Poultry, & Fish
routine cutting and trimming of $19,999 / $22,573 Most receive 1 month to 2
Cutters & Trimmers
meat, poultry, and fish. years training.
Prepare, cook and present
1-2 Years
food according to recipes in
Restaurant Cooks $18,296 / $20,743 Some train on the job or attend
restaurants, hotels and
short-term program.
institutions.
Serve food and beverages to
On-the-Job Training
customers at tables or
Most learn on the job. Upscale
Waiters and Waitresses counters. Take orders and $16,563 / $23,166
restaurants require previous
make out checks. Might set or
experience.
clear tables.
32

34. HUMAN SERVICES
Are you a good listener? Have you planned programs for school or community organizations?
Cluster Description: Skills Used in this Cluster:
Human services workers help individual and families meet their personal needs. You might work in a gov-
ernment office, hospital, nonprofit agency, nursing home, spa, hotel, or school. For example, you might help • Confidentiality to guard cli-
students with career and education choices at a high school, cut and color hair in a salon, or manage funeral ents’ private information.
services at a funeral home. • Critical-thinking skills for
making on-the-spot judgments
in stressful situations.
Ways to Explore this Cluster: • Physical stamina to stand for
• Coordinate a school wide food and/or clothing drive. long periods of time or endure
• Participate in Family, Career, and Community Leaders of America (FCCLA). long, stressful work shifts.
• Intern or volunteer with a nonprofit program that deals with issues meaningful to you, like animal wel-
fare, poverty, the environment, children or veterans’ issues. • Problem sensitivity to relate
• Take a class related to: and react appropriately to cli-
◦ Ethnic and Gender Studies ents issues.
◦ Computer Applications • Time management skills to
◦ Life Skills adequately provide services
◦ Psychology to the public within time con-
◦ World Languages straints.
ACE Participating Businesses:
◦ ARC Southwest Minnesota ◦ Aspire Salon & Spa
◦ Community Options and Resources (COR) ◦ Grace Lutheran Church
◦ Habilitative Services, Inc. ◦ Human Services of Faribault and Martin Counties
◦ Lakeview Funeral Home ◦ Minnesota Valley Action Council
◦ MRCI - Fairmont ◦ REM Heartland, Inc.
◦ SMILES-Center For Independent Living ◦ STEP, Inc.
◦ Vocational Rehabilitation
33