‘Duluth Promise’ Promotes Workforce Partnerships with Local Students

DULUTH, Minn. — A new initiative in Duluth is planning to not only solve retention issues, but also fix a shrinking workforce.

‘The Duluth Promise’ is a new partnership between educational institutions and workforce partners to build a stronger local workforce. By linking the two, schools will be able to equip students with career paths, by teaching them in-demand skills that works hand in hand with student goals.

In addition, the program itself will support students in colleges all over Duluth as they enter the workforce after graduation.

“It’s not often that we bring these forces together,” said Matt Baumgartner president of the Duluth Chamber of Commerce. “So when I think about this big vision, and what we should all be united behind, it’s to be on the national map from innovation in technology from beginning to end. And then also being the best place to raise children, because we know that Duluth has everything to offer, including quality of life and a beautiful lake.”

Officials say that with the plan, it will solve a noticeable disconnect with skills taught, and the skills that are required by employers. One of the speakers is currently a high school senior and a Lake Superior College student, and she says it will be a game changer for students like her.

“I chose LSC because when I step foot on campus everyone really made me feel welcomed, especially as a high school student because it was definitely intimidating. LSC really creates an easy pathway for me to transfer to a four year university and teachers and staff have provided endless support and guidance in my college journey.” said Cora Lord, a PSEO student at Lake Superior College.

Through the Duluth Promise, organizers also say that this will ensure that every student has the opportunity to succeed.