The document provides information about an Area Career Exploration (ACE) event. It welcomes participants and discusses the mission to make students aware of local career opportunities. Students will have opportunities to interact with employers and learn about required skills from education representatives. The area is described as a great place to work, live, and have recreational activities. The document lists the event coordinators and volunteers who are helping to plan the career exploration.

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.
Marcia Bay Bob Wallace
ISEEK Partner Communications &Training Director President
iSeek Solutions Fairmont Area Chamber of Commerce
Garey Ferguson Denise Felder
Business Service Specialist ACE Resource Guide Chair & MnCareers Editor
Department of Employment & Economic Development iSeek Solutions
2

4. THANKS TO OUR 2009 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 MARKETING:
• Marcia Bay, iSeek Solutions • Garey Ferguson, DEED
• Garey Ferguson, DEED • Bob Wallace, Fairmont Area Chamber of Commerce
• Butch Hanson, Fairmont Area Schools
• Mike Humpal, City of Fairmont Economic Development ACE EVENT DAY COMMITTEE:
Authority (FEDA) • Marcia Bay, iSeek Solutions
• Lynn Manske, Fairmont Area Schools • Roni Dauer, Fairmont Community Education & Recreation
• Dave Patschke, Fairmont Area Schools • Sue Eisenmenger, STEP, Inc.
• Bob Wallace, Fairmont Area Chamber of Commerce • Garey Ferguson, DEED
• Susan Gallagher, Minnesota WorkForce Center
• Heather Gleason, South Central WorkForce Council
ACE RESOURCE GUIDE CONTENT: • Callie Goerndt, Fairmont Area Chamber of Commerce
• Denise Felder — Chair, iSeek Solutions • Butch Hanson, Fairmont Area Schools
• Callie Goerndt — Assistant Chair, Fairmont Area Chamber • Tammie Hested, Minnesota Valley Action Council
of Commerce • Connie Hines, Minnesota Workforce Center
• Garey Ferguson, DEED • Shirley Jordison, Minnesota WorkForce Center
• Bob Wallace, Fairmont Area Chamber of Commerce • Char Kahler, Char Commercial Art
• Keith Kenney, US Bank
• Lynn Manske, Fairmont Area Schools
ACE RESOURCE GUIDE COVER/LOGO DESIGN: • Ernie Nuss, Roessler, Nuss and Co. P.A.
• Char Kahler, Char Commercial Art • Vicki Paskey, Minnesota Valley Action Council
• Jennifer Ridgeway, DEED
• Lowell Spee, City of Fairmont
ACE RESOURCE GUIDE PRINTING: • Tom Steffes, Fairmont Area Chamber of Commerce
• Norwood Publishing • Bob Wallace, Fairmont Area Chamber of Commerce
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5. ACE VOLUNTEERS
FINANCIAL COMMITTEE: FAIRMONT AREA SCHOOL VOLUNTEERS:
• Roni Dauer, Fairmont Community Education & Recreation • Shelia Artner, Fairmont Area Schools
• Garey Ferguson, DEED • Krisit Brandt, Fairmont Area Schools
• Mike Humpal, Fairmont Economic Development • Mark Borchardt, Fairmont Area Schools
Association • Holly Christian, Fairmont Area Schools
• Lynn Manske, Fairmont Area Schools • Scott Geerdes, Fairmont Area Schools
• Tim Penney, Southern Minnesota Initiative Foundation • Butch Hanson, Fairmont Area Schools
— SMIF • Lynn Manske, Fairmont Area Schools
• Tom Steffes, Fairmont Area Chamber of Commerce • Dave Patschke, Fairmont Area Schools
• Lawrence Sukalski, Martin County IGNITE • Jenny Schwieger, Fairmont Area Schools
• Bob Wallace, Fairmont Area Chamber of Commerce • Lee Stewart, Fairmont Area Schools
• Dave Ternberg, Fairmont Area Schools
EDUCATION COMMITTEE:
• Jennifer Benedix, 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
4

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 58
ACE Map of Fairmont High School 63
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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
organize 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.
6

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 1. Curious 2. Drafting circled in
looks like. 2. Good at following 3. Physical Sciences Box B
BOX B
3. Work with my hands. directions 4. Construction Trades
4. Perform work that requires precise results. 3. Pay attention to detail 5. Electrical Trades / Heat,
5. Solve technical problems. 4. Good at visualizing Air Conditioning and
6. Visit and learn from beautiful, historic, or possibilities Refrigeration / Technology
interesting buildings. 5. Patient and persistent Education
7. Follow logical, step-by-step procedures.
7

9. Activities that describe what I like to do: Personal qualities that School subjects I like: Total
1. Use my imagination to communicate new describe 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 C
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
7. Design brochures and posters. and thoughts of others
5. Determined / tenacious
Activities that describe what I like to do: Personal qualities that School subjects I like: Total
1. Perform routine, organized activities but can describe me: 1. Computer Applications / number
be flexible. 1. Organized Business and Information circled in
2. Work with numbers and detailed information. 2. Practical and logical Technology Box D
BOX D
3. Be the leader in a group. 3. Patient 2. Accounting
4. Make business contact with people. 4. Tactful 3. Math
5. Work with computer programs. 5. Responsible 4. English
6. Create reports and communicate ideas. 5. Economics
7. Plan my work and follow instructions without close
supervision.
Activities that describe what I like to do: Personal qualities that School subjects I like: Total
1. Communicate with different types of people. describe me: 1. Language Arts number
2. Help others with their homework or to learn 1. Friendly 2. Social Studies circled in
new things. 3. Math
BOX E
2. Decision maker Box E
3. Go to school. 3. Helpful 4. Science
4. Direct and plan activities for others. 4. Innovative/Inquisitive 5. Psychology
5. Handle several responsibilities at once. 5. Good listener
6. Acquire new information.
7. Help people overcome their challenges.
8

10. Activities that describe what I like to do: Personal qualities that School subjects I like: Total
1. Work with numbers. describe me: 1. Accounting number
2. Work to meet a deadline. 1. Trustworthy 2. Math circled in
3. Make predictions based on existing facts. 3. Economics
BOX F
2. Orderly Box F
4. Have a framework of rules by which to operate. 3. Self-confident 4. Banking / Financial
5. Analyze financial information and interpret 4. Logical Services
it to 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 School subjects I like: Total
1. Be involved in politics. describe 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 School subjects I like: Total
1. Work under pressure. describe me: 1. Biological Sciences number
2. Help sick people and animals. 1. Compassionate and caring 2. Chemistry circled in
3. Make decisions based on logic and information. 3. Math
BOX H
2. Good at following Box H
4. Participate in health and science classes. directions 4. Occupational Health
5. Respond quickly and calmly in emergencies. 3. Conscientious and careful classes
6. Work as a member of a team. 4. Patient 5. Language Arts
7. Follow guidelines precisely and meet strict 5. Good listener
standards of accuracy.
9

11. Activities that describe what I like to do: Personal qualities that School subjects I like: Total
1. Investigate new places and activities. describe 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 Sciences
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 School subjects I like: Total
1. Care about people, their needs, and their problems. describe 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
BOX J
Box J
3. Listen to other people’s viewpoints. 2. Caring Sciences
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 School subjects I like: Total
1. Work with computers. describe 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
3. Use machines, techniques, and processes. Applications
BOX K
picture
4. Read technical materials and diagrams and solve 3. Persistent 4. Communications
technical 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.
10

12. Activities that describe what I like to do: Personal qualities that School subjects I like: Total
1. Work under pressure or in the face of danger. describe me: 1. Language Arts number
BOX L 2. Make decisions based on my own observations. 1. Adventurous 2. Psychology / Sociology circled in
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 Responder
7. Observe and analyze people’s behavior.
Activities that describe what I like to do: Personal qualities that School subjects I like: Total
1. Work with my hands and learn that way. describe 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 courses Box M
BOX M
4. Perform activities that produce tangible results. 3. Physically active 4. Physics
5. Apply math to work out solutions. 4. Step-by-step thinker 5. Language Arts
6. Use hand and power tools and operate equipment/ 5. Coordinated
machinery.
7. Visualize objects in three dimensions from flat
drawings.
Activities that describe what I like to do: Personal qualities that School subjects I like: Total
1. Shop and go to the mall. describe me: 1. Language Arts number
2. Be in charge. 1. Enthusiastic 2. Math circled in
BOX N
3. Make displays and promote ideas. 2. Competitive 3. Business Education / Box N
4. Give presentations and enjoy public speaking. 3. Creative Marketing
5. Persuade people to buy products or to participate in 4. Self-motivated 4. Economics
activities. 5. Persuasive 5. 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 School subjects I like: Total
1. Interpret formulas. describe me: 1. Math number
2. Find the answers to questions. 1. Detail oriented 2. Science circled in
3. Work in a laboratory. 3. Drafting / Computer-Aided
BOX O
2. Inquisitive Box O
4. Figure out how things work and investigate 3. Objective Drafting
new things. 4. Methodical 4. Electronics / Computer
5. Explore new technology. 5. Mechanically inclined Networking
6. Experiment to find the best way to do something. 5. Technical Classes /
7. Pay attention to details and help things be precise. Technology Education
Activities that describe what I like to do: Personal qualities that School subjects I like: Total
1. Travel. describe me: 1. Math number
2. See well and have quick reflexes. 1. Realistic 2. Trade and Industry courses circled in
3. Solve mechanical problems. 3. Physical Sciences
BOX P
2. Mechanical 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)
12

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.
13

15. 14

16. AGRICULTURE, FOOD & NATURAL RESOURCES
Do you enjoy working with animals? Are you interested in protecting the environment?
Skills Used in this Cluster:
Cluster Description: • Computer skills to use related
Agriculture, food, and natural resources workers produce agricultural goods. This technology and software.
includes food, plants, animals, fabrics, wood, and crops. You might work on a farm, • Patience and cooperation skills
ranch, dairy, orchard, greenhouse, or plant nursery. You could also work in a clinic or
for working with people and animals.
laboratory as a scientist or engineer. Some agriculture, food, and natural resources
workers market, sell, or finance agricultural goods. • Physical stamina for heavy
lifting, carrying and working with
large machinery.
Ways to Explore this Cluster: • Problem-solving skills to deal with
• Join a group concerned with environmental issues like living or renewable energy. weather-related complications or
animal wellness issues.
• Job shadow or volunteer at a local animal shelter.
• Science skills to know rules and
• Get involved with the National Future Farmers of America Organization (www.ffa.org)
methods for working with natural
or Foremost Farms (www.foremostfarms.com).
• Volunteer to care for flowers at the local park. resources.
• Take a class related to:
o Agricultural Business
o Agriculture Technology
o Animal Science
o Natural Resources Management
o Environmental Science
ACE Participating Businesses:
• Martin Soil & Water Conservation District
• Fairmont Veterinary Clinic LLP
• Natural Resources Conservation Service
• Hawkeye Sow Center
• Rural Advantage
• Marin County Pork Producers
• WFS
15

17. AGRICULTURE, FOOD & NATURAL RESOURCES
Annual Low/
Career Title Description 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 $22,949 / $25,001
Farmworkers College education optional for
equipment and supplies.
specialized tasks.
Purchase farm products either for
Related Work Experience
further processing or resale. Include
Farm Products Purchasing Most advance with previous
Christmas tree contractors, grain $44,544 / $51,730
Agents and Buyers experience or knowledge of the
brokers and market operators, grain
company.
buyers, and tobacco buyers.
Operate or tend food or tobacco
Food & Tobacco Roasting, roasting, baking, or drying On-the-Job Training
Baking & Drying Machine equipment, including hearth ovens, $22,203 / $31,605 Most receive short-term
Operators kiln driers, roasters, char kilns, and training.
vacuum drying equipment.
Repair and install heating, air 1-2 Years
Heating & Cooling System conditioning, refrigeration systems, Most complete 1-2 years at a
$38,019 / $45,795
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
$32,516 / $41,514
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 training
properties, grassy fields or private $18,556 / $20,643
Groundskeepers on the job. Certification for
lawns. Might also shovel and
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 $35,303 / $42,080
Technicians engineering technology. Work
blueprints, build prototypes and
experience helps.
record data.
16

18. ARCHITECTURE & CONSTRUCTION
Do you like to create models or make designs? Do you like to work with tools, objects, and numbers?
Skills Used in this Cluster:
Cluster Description:
• Customer service skills are
Architecture and construction workers work on buildings and other structures. This
includes highways, bridges, houses, and buildings. You might create the designs or
used by independent contractors
plans for new structures. Or, you might use the plans to build it or manage the workers to relate to clients.
on the project. Some architecture and construction workers do skilled trades, like • Dependability to be on time
carpentry, painting, or plumbing. Or, you might work as a landscaper and take care of and work well with others.
flowers and trees on large properties. • Manual dexterity is necessary to
fit pieces of various sizes together
and use a variety of tools.
• Mathematics is used every
Ways to Explore this Cluster: day to quickly compute simple
• Do home-repair projects. calculations and measurements.
• Job shadow at an architecture or home design firm. • Problem-solving skills are
• Read trade magazines to stay current on major construction projects and trends. needed to finish the project even
• Start a lawn mowing service. when a dilemma occurs.
• Take a class related to:
o Blueprint Reading
o Business Computer Applications
o Computer-Assisted Design (CAD)
o Geometry
o Technical Writing
ACE Participating Businesses:
• Carpenters - Local 464
• Plumbers - Local 34
• Day Plumbing, Heating & Cooling
• Sheet Metal Workers - Local 10
• Operating Engineers - Local 49
• Tech Builders, Inc.
• Pipefitters - Local 455
17

19. ARCHITECTURE & CONSTRUCTION
Annual Low/
Career Title Description Education / Training Job Outlook
Median Wages
Apprenticeship
Cut, fit and assemble wood and
Most complete an
other materials to construct
Carpenters $32,497 / $38,034 apprenticeship or train for 18-
buildings, houses, fixtures or
22 months at a technical
equipment.
college.
Prepare cost estimates for
product manufacturing,
Bachelor's Degree
construction projects, or
Cost Estimators $40,036 / $54,346 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 $40,131 / $47,620
work complies with building apprenticeship. License
codes. required.
Repair and install heating, air 1-2 Years
Heating & Cooling System conditioning, refrigeration Most complete 1-2 years at a
$38,019 / $45,795
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. $32,185 / $42,491
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 & Boiler
provide utilities for buildings or $37,783 / $43,740 Some complete formal job
Operators
industrial processes such as training programs.
generators, motors, turbines,
and steam boilers.
18

20. ARTS, A/V TECHNOLOGY & COMMUNICATIONS
Is artistic expression important to you? Do you like to work with technology?
Skills Used in this Cluster:
Cluster Description:
Arts, audio/video technology, and communications workers use creativity and their • Customer service skills are
talents on the job. You might work for an audience as a performer or artist. This used by independent contractors
includes painters, dancers, sculptors, actors, and singers. Or, you might work behind to relate to clients.
the scenes to make a performance successful. This includes set designers, editors, • Dependability to be on time
broadcast technicians, and camera operators. Some audio/video technology and and work well with others.
communications workers have high-profile jobs. Or, you might use your creative • Manual dexterity is
talents with technology and work as an animator, graphic designer, or film editor. necessary to fit pieces of
various sizes together and
use a variety of tools.
• Mathematics is used every
Ways to Explore this Cluster: day to quickly compute
• Join a community theatre group. simple calculations and
• Seek opportunities at a campus radio station, community cable TV station, web venture or local measurements.
newspaper.
• Problem-solving skills are
• Volunteer to teach multimedia, art, music or dance classes.
• Write a blog or publish original fiction, drawings, photography or videos.
needed to finish the project even
• Take a class related to: when a dilemma occurs.
o Band, Chorus or Music
o Creative Writing
o Interactive Media and Web Design
o Mass Media Marketing
o Public Speaking
ACE Participating Businesses:
• Ad Mfg, Inc. • Sauck Media Group
• Image Wear • Seifried Portrait Design
• KSUM/KFMC • Sentinel
19

21. ARTS, A/V TECHNOLOGY & COMMUNICATIONS
Annual Low/
Occupation Description Education / Training Outlook
Median Wages
Format typescript and graphic 2-4 Years
elements using computer Most receive formal training or
Desktop Publishers $24,948 / $30,514
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 $25,297 / $31,578
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 $21,633 / $25,553
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 $37,718 / $43,494
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 $42,341 / $54,121 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?
Skills Used in this Cluster:
Cluster Description:
• Computer skills to use relevant
Business, management, and administrative workers give the support needed to make software and technology.
a business run. You might check employee time records or train new employees. Or, • Critical-thinking skills for problem-
you might work as a top executive and provide the overall direction for a company or solving and generating new ideas.
department. There are many types of jobs at all levels. For example, you might manage • Leadership skills to be willing to
the financial activities of a business, direct the public to specific people or do extra tasks and make timely
departments, or record incoming and outgoing shipments. decisions.
• Cooperation skills to work on
projects with coworkers.
Ways to Explore this Cluster: • Speaking skills to effectively
• Participate in a school or charity fundraiser. relay information to customers
• Join Junior Achievement
and coworkers.
• Use school assignments and extra-curricular activities to practice managing workflow and
timelines.
• Start your own business.
• Take a class related to:
o Algebra I and II
o Business Law
o International Business
o Office Procedures
o Public Speaking
ACE Participating Businesses:
• City of Fairmont • Rosen's, Inc
• Federated Rural Electric • Steve E. Pierce, CPA LTD
• Preferred Capital Management
21

23. BUSINESS, MANAGEMENT & ADMINISTRATION
Annual Low/
Occupation Description Education / Training Outlook
Median Wages
Conduct programs of
compensation and benefits
Compensation, Benefits & Job and job analysis for employer. Bachelor's Degree
Analysis Specialists May specialize in specific $37,646 / $41,850 Many have 4-year degree
areas, such as position related to human relations.
classification and pension
programs.
Recruit and place workers.
Bachelor's Degree
Might work for a human
Employment, Recruitment & Most have 4-year degree in
resources department, $35,740 / $41,368
Placement Specialists human development, HR or
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
$30,946 / $36,510
Administrative Assistants clerical functions such as experience or knowledge of the
preparing correspondence, company.
receiving visitors, arranging
conference calls, and
scheduling meetings.
Varies
Check employee time records,
Most receive training at a
Payroll & Timekeeping Clerks record payroll data and $28,290 / $33,579
community or technical
prepare paychecks.
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 • Creativity and enthusiasm to
influence young lives. You could also support the work of a classroom teacher as a keep students interested in
counselor, librarian, or principal. You could coach sports activities or lead community materials.
classes. You could also work with adults. For example, you could lead training to • Flexibility to present materials and
employees in a business. Or you could work as a university or college professor for concepts in a variety of ways to
undergraduate or graduate students. different people.
• Organization skills to create
lesson plans and track students'
Ways to Explore this Cluster: progress and problems.
• Coach a sports team. • Self-confidence to stand in
• Teach a class at a community center. front of people and speak.
• Tutor a family member or neighborhood youth. • Tolerance to deal with
• Volunteer at a library or literacy program. unmotivated or disruptive
• Take a class related to: students and changing
o Child Development educational guidelines.
o Cultural/Ethnic Studies
o Psychology
o Safety and First Aid
o World Languages
ACE Participating Businesses:
• Minnesota West Community &
• Elmore Academy • ISEEK Technical College - Fire Safety
• Fairmont Area Schools • Minnesota West • Presentation College
• Fairmont Community Community & Technical
• Rasmussen College
Education & Recreation College
• South Central College
23

25. EDUCATION & TRAINING
Annual Low/
Occupation Description Education / Training Outlook
Median Wages
Master's Degree
Help students with career and
Most have a master's degree
School Counselors education choices, and $41,797 / $49,516
in counseling or education.
personal and social problems.
License required.
Instruct and motivate athletic
groups or individuals. Varies
Fitness Trainers & Aerobics
Demonstrate techniques and $18,099 / $19,563 Most have certificates or
Instructors
evaluate performance. Exclude degrees plus experience.
Athletic Trainers.
Teach children from 4-6 years Bachelor's Degree
old. Prepare for elementary Most have degree in
Preschool Teachers $24,719 / $36,783
school or teach basic science, education. Varies by school
art, music, math and reading. type. License required.
Teach courses pertaining to
education, such as counseling, Master's Degree
University & College Education curriculum, guidance, Some have master's degree.
$42,916 / $53,609
Teachers instruction, teacher education, Others have 8-year doctoral
and teaching English as a degree in a specific field.
second language.
Teach courses in English Master's Degree
University & College English
language and literature, Some have master's degree.
Language & Literature $45,279 / $60,436
including linguistics and Others have 8-year doctoral
Teachers
comparative literature. degree in a specific field.
24

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

27. FINANCE
Annual Low/
Occupation Description Education / Training Outlook
Median Wages
Find and notify customers On-the-Job Training
behind on payments. Might Most receive short-term
Bill & Account Collectors receive payments, prepare $24,367 / $29,867 training on the job. College
statements, start repossession courses helpful for
procedures or keep records. advancement.
Review settled claims to
determine that payments and
settlements have been made
Varies
Claims Adjusters, Examiners & in accordance with company
$52,086 / $59,299 Most have certificates or
Investigators practices and procedures.
degrees plus experience.
Report overpayments,
underpayments, and other
irregularities.
Plan, direct, and coordinate
accounting, investing, banking, Bachelor's Degree
insurance, securities, and Most have 4-year degree or
Financial Managers $83,475 / $100,168
other financial activities of a higher in a related field and
branch, office, or department extensive work experience.
of an establishment.
Sell policies that provide Bachelor's Degree
financial protection for people Most have a 4-year degree in
Insurance Agents $37,185 / $40,662
or property in case of death, business or economics.
accidents or acts of nature. License required.
Interview persons desiring to
On-the-Job Training
open bank accounts. Explain
Most receive short-term
banking services available to
New Accounts Clerks $26,415 / $28,390 training on the job. College
prospective customers and
courses helpful for
assist them in preparing
advancement.
application form.
26

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

29. GOVERNMENT & PUBLIC ADMINISTRATION
Annual Low/
Occupation Description Education / Training 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 $60,345 / $69,513
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, $56,082 / $77,442
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 Service
agencies. Oversee staff, $52,197 / $62,570 higher in counseling, social
Managers
volunteers, budgets and work, management or related
program activities. field.
Collect taxes from individuals
Bachelor's Degree
and businesses. Follow state
Tax Examiners, Collectors, and Most have degree in
and federal laws and $42,269 / $56,220
Revenue Agents accounting, business or
regulations to determine how
related field.
much is owed.
28

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

31. HEALTH SCIENCE
Annual Low/
Occupation Description Education / Training Outlook
Median Wages
Clean teeth and look for signs
Associate Degree
of oral disease. Might instruct
Most have 2-year degree.
Dental Hygienists patients in tooth care, take X- $60,765 / $67,465
Some have bachelor's degree.
rays and apply fluoride or
License required.
sealants.
Plan diets and educate people
Bachelor's Degree
about nutrition. Might
Most have degree in nutrition
Dietitians and Nutritionists supervise food preparation for $44,428 / $49,594
or food services management.
individuals, hospitals, schools
License required.
or other facilities.
Perform complex medical
laboratory tests for diagnosis, Bachelor's Degree
Medical & Clinical Laboratory
treatment and prevention of $46,716 / $53,006 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 by physicians, dentists or other $103,005 / $116,033
complete a 4-year pharmacy
authorized medical
program. License required.
practitioners.
Assess and plan rehabilitative
Doctorate
programs that improve
Industry shifted from master's
Physical Therapists mobility, relieve pain, and $60,597 / $67,194
degree to requiring 8-year
decrease deformity of patients
Ph.D. Licensed required.
with disease or injury.
Care for patients under
supervision of a physician. Professional Degree
Might give physicals, collect Most have bachelor's and
Physician Assistants $72,687 / $79,686
patient histories, counsel complete a 2-year PA program.
patients or prescribe License required.
medications.
Assess patient health and care 2-4 Years
for ill or injured patients. Might Most have associate or
Registered Nurses $52,135 / $62,782
advise patients on care bachelor's degree. License
management. required.
30

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

33. HOSPITALITY & TOURISM
Annual Low/
Occupation Description Education / Training Outlook
Median Wages
Varies
Plan, direct, or coordinate
Some complete 2-4 month
activities of an organization or
Food Service Managers $30,508 / $37,747 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 Desk
receiving messages, keeping $17,684 / $19,556 Most receive short-term
Clerks
records of accounts and training.
collecting payments from
departing guests.
Use hand tools to perform On-the-Job Training
Meat, Poultry, & Fish Cutters &
routine cutting and trimming of $20,661 / $22,648 Most receive 1 month to 2
Trimmers
meat, poultry, and fish. years training.
Prepare, cook and present
1-2 Years
food according to recipes in
Restaurant Cooks $17,743 / $20,252 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 $16,796 / $25,208
restaurants require previous
make out checks. Might set or
experience.
clear tables.
32