Canby Campus hosts the Diesel Xtravaganza!

On March 14, from 9 am to 11 am, the Canby Campus will showcase five highlighted programs. Prospective students are encouraged to explore Diesel Technology, Dental Assistant, Electrician/Solar, Wind Energy Technology, and Powerline Technology. With a special appearance from The Energy Center for Excellence Science trailer. Program shadowing, featuring hands-on activities and a campus tour, begins at 9 am. In the afternoon and evening, the community is welcome to join the event, complete with a burger feed starting at 11 am and a raffle fundraiser.

Initiated in 1997 by Diesel Mechanic program students, the event aims to raise funds for scholarships and equipment. Each year, students collaborate with local dealerships to showcase equipment, organize a burger feed, and conduct a fundraising raffle. While the event primarily focuses on program shadowing for future students, it has gained popularity among community members, drawing a substantial crowd of loyal supporters annually.

Thanks to partnerships and community backing, the Xtravaganza has experienced significant growth, reflecting the increasing demand for technical careers with a positive job outlook. The day also serves as a reunion for Minnesota West Alumni, providing an opportunity for connections and updates on industry developments.

An addition to this year's event is the participation of a National Guard recruiter, providing attendees with the opportunity to explore unique heavy-duty equipment in the mechanics industry. Incoming students can engage in a friendly competition for a chance to win a scholarship. The day will also highlight Minnesota West's fall scholarship opportunities, such as the Workforce Development and the North Star Promise, further emphasizing the commitment to support students in pursuing their educational and career goals.

Andy Hoffman, in his first year as a Diesel Technology Instructor, and Mike DeVries, now in his 7th year on the Canby Campus, contribute to the event's success. Minnesota West's dedicated staff, instructors and students exemplify the continuing impact of the program.

All proceeds from the event directly benefit program field trips, necessary equipment, and student scholarships, highlighting the community's commitment to supporting education and career development.

Prospective Students:

Students are encouraged to apply for our Minnesota West scholarship opportunities for the 2024-2025 academic year. Three current scholarships we would like to highlight:

North Star Promise (NSP) Scholarship Program:
Eligible Minnesota residents applying for financial aid will have the remaining balance of tuition and fees covered after other forms of financial aid, such as scholarships, grants, stipends, and tuition waivers, are applied. By doing so, it ensures that eligible individuals have access to affordable education at eligible institutions, thereby removing financial barriers and fostering educational opportunities in the state of Minnesota. No need to apply, as students who have applied for FAFSA and who are eligible will be awarded come Fall 2024.

Minnesota West Workforce Development Scholarship >
Minnesota West recognizes the importance of preparing students for high-demand occupations in various fields. The Workforce Development Scholarship, with up to fifty $2,500 scholarships for the 2024-2025 academic year, is a testament to their commitment. Targeting Minnesota residents, this scholarship is designed for those majoring in critical areas such as advanced manufacturing, agriculture, health care services, information technology programs, transportation, and early childhood. By supporting students in these key sectors, Minnesota West aims to contribute to the development of a skilled workforce that meets the demands of evolving industries.

Minnesota West PSEO/REACH High School Seniors Award >
The $2,000 award offered by Minnesota West is specifically designed to support high school seniors graduating in May 2024. This scholarship recognizes the achievements of students who have already earned 9 or more college credits through the Post-Secondary Enrollment Options (PSEO) and/or Concurrent Enrollment programs. To be eligible, recipients must continue their educational journey and pursue an Associate of Arts (AA), Associate of Science (AS), Associate of Applied Science (AAS) degree, or diploma program at Minnesota West.