Electrician Program Sparks Statewide Recognition at MAWB 2025
Southwest Minnesota Private Industry Council (PIC) and the Lower Sioux Indian Community received the top honor of #1 Promising Practice from the Minnesota Association of Workforce Boards (MAWB) for their collaborative Electrician Cankuya Program, developed in partnership with Minnesota West Community & Technical College. The award was announced at the 2025 MAWB Summer Conference in Duluth, themed “Adapt & Advance: A Workforce System Built to Thrive.”
The Electrician Cankuya Program was created through Minnesota’s Drive for 5 initiative—a statewide effort to fill high-demand jobs in technology, trades, healthcare, manufacturing, and education. Developed in partnership with the Lower Sioux Indian Community, the program was led by PIC, Minnesota West’s Craig Peters (Dean of Management & Career & Technical Programs), and James Wee (Customized Training Coordinator). Education Coordinator Jesse Kodet also played a key role in building the collaboration.
“The program demonstrates what’s possible when education, workforce development, and community leadership come together with purpose. We’re proud to be part of a partnership that not only builds skills, but also honors cultural identity and opens doors to lasting opportunity.” — Dean Craig Peters
Minnesota West provided electrical certification training through its Customized Training services, helping individuals and employers gain new skills and meet industry standards. Instructors Tim Zinniel and Matt Petersen led the training, with James Wee coordinating the development of a hands-on lab in Morton, MN. Additional support came from electrician program instructors Rob Arp and Lance Baumann, and Paula Paplow, who guided the program through the Academic Affairs and Standards Council (AASC) approval process.
The program stood out for its practical training, strong community ties, and commitment to preparing Minnesotans for in-demand careers. Building on this success, Minnesota West and PIC have launched a new Mechatronics certificate, which has also received AASC approval. Plans include additional partnership opportunities with the Lower Sioux Indian Community.
Since 1994, MAWB has supported workforce development across Minnesota, representing 16 area workforce councils and fostering collaboration among local leaders and employment partners. This year’s conference reaffirmed the importance of innovation, partnership, and community in building a resilient workforce—and thanks to the efforts of Minnesota West, PIC, and the Lower Sioux Indian Community, the future looks promising.