Central Minnesota Jobs and Training Services, Inc.

August 14-16: MAWB Summer Conference: "Reimagining Workforce: Embracing the Future". The event included topics such as workforce development, comprehensive workforce strategy, hiring people with disabilities, integrating immigrants and refugees into the workforce, and the dynamic world of Artificial Intelligence. Additionally, there were discussions on finding and empowering young change-makers, bridging the generational gap, and prioritizing skills over traditional qualifications for talent acquisition and development. Pictured: Sherburne County Commissioner Lisa Fobbe, Kanabec County Commissioner Wendy Caswell, CMJTS Program Manager Troy Gilbertson, CMJTS Executive Director Dina Wuornos, Pine County Commissioner Terry Lovgren, Wright County Commissioner Jeanne Holland, CMJTS Workforce Development Board Vice Chair Brian O'Donnell.

Serving on the Central Minnesota Workforce Development Board for over 20 years has been an honor and a privilege. It has been an extraordinary opportunity for me personally to give back to the communities in which I have an employer presence. As the workforce development committee chair and previous workforce board chair, I have had the opportunity to participate in developing and implementing programs and services that support our CMJTS clients and our regional employers. I have had the chance to lead a committee comprised of business leaders, labor representatives, educators, local elected officials, and, of course, outstanding, dedicated CMJTS staff. Collectively, we are dedicated to providing community workers and employers with the tools and resources to be their best, strengthening all of the communities we serve.

Central Minnesota Jobs and Training Services, Inc. (CMJTS) is pleased to announce that Dina Wuornos has been appointed its new Executive Director, effective February 9, 2024. ? With an impressive career of 29 years in workforce development, Dina Wuornos brings a unique blend of experience and a profound understanding of the region's employment landscape to her new role as the Executive Director of Central Minnesota Jobs and Training Services, Inc. (CMJTS). ? Wuornos has been a cornerstone of CMJTS's mission to empower individuals and strengthen communities through innovative workforce solutions. Her commitment to excellence, strategic vision, and tireless advocacy for jobseekers and employers have significantly impacted the organization's success. ? Expressing her honor to take on the role, Wuornos is eager to continue CMJTS's important work of serving the community's needs. She is grateful for the opportunity to lead a team of professionals who share her passion for making a difference in people's lives. Dina Wuornos will become the executive director of CMJTS, succeeding Barbara Chaffee, who recently left the position. While acknowledging the past leadership, the Workforce Development Board (WDB) will focus on steering CMJTS toward continued growth and success under Wuornos's guidance. ? "We are thrilled to welcome Dina Wuornos as our new Executive Director," said Brian O'Donnell, CMJTS WDB Chairperson. "Her extensive experience and unwavering commitment to our mission make her the ideal candidate to lead CMJTS into its next chapter of innovation and impact." ? As CMJTS continues its mission of connecting jobseekers with employment opportunities and supporting businesses in building a skilled workforce, Wuornos will provide strategic direction and leadership to ensure the organization remains at the forefront of workforce development initiatives in Central Minnesota. ? For more information about CMJTS and its programs, visit www.cmjts.org. About CMJTS: Central Minnesota Jobs and Training Services (CMJTS) is a workforce development agency dedicated to connecting jobseekers with employment opportunities and supporting businesses in building a skilled workforce. With a focus on innovation and collaboration, CMJTS provides comprehensive workforce solutions to meet the evolving needs of individuals and businesses in Central Minnesota.