(WDI) is an independent, non-profit agency with a long history of serving the needs of career seekers and employers in Southeast Minnesota. (WDI) offers a variety of vocational programs designed to help you overcome barriers to meaningful, living-wage employment. Outreach Specialists
WDI Outreach Specialists (OS) strengthen the workforce in SE Minnesota by listening to area employers’ needs, educ
ating the local talent pool to fill those needs, and supporting businesses with state and federal funding opportunities to help then optimize their workforce potential. The OS team is comprised of Career Planners and staff from each of the ten counties across the WDI service area. The principle focus of this team is to connect with employers of all types and sizes and to be the primary contact and resource for employers to the myriad of resources that WDI and the state of Minnesota has to offer. The team also relays any feedback from the business community regarding the current business climate back to state and workforce partners, to ensure decision makers stay informed on what challenges local businesses are facing. All of these services are offered at no cost to the employer. WDI Outreach Specialists (OS) Team
Dodge County // Desirae D**e, [email protected], 507.634.7381
Fillmore & Houston Counties // Dee Slinde, [email protected], 507.951.7092
Freeborn County // Valerie Kvale, [email protected], 507.402.7294
Goodhue County // Cyndi Reese, [email protected], 651.764.1583
Mower County // Mike Postma, [email protected], 507.433.0685
Olmsted County // Erica Rice, [email protected], 507.252.6529
Rice & Steele Counties // Cassie Wessing, [email protected], 507.333.2049
Wabasha County // Kortney Wobbe, [email protected], 651.565.2635
Dislocated Worker
Losing your job, especially through no fault of your own, is one of the most frustrating and stressful events someone can live through. WDI is here to help anyone across Southeast Minnesota who wants assistance. Take advantage of our completely free, individualized services and resources so that you can get back to meaningful, living-wage employment. General Adult
Would you like to explore the possibility of new, more satisfying work? Maybe landing your dream job would take some specialized training, job search assistance, interview practice, or career preparation. WDI can help you with any of these services and so much more. Stop by or call your local WDI office today to set up a totally free, one-on-one meeting with a Career Planner to figure out your goals and the steps you need to take to reach them. Our offices all across Southeast Minnesota make it easy to find help nearby. Minnesota Family Investment Program/Diversionary Work Program *REFERRAL ONLY*
WDI provides services for the Employment and Training component of the Minnesota Family Investment Program (MFIP). These services provide an opportunity for eligible families to receive career counseling, job search assistance, access to specialized vocational programs, and support services. We can help you get a job or get a better job. We can also connect you to local resources for any other needs you might have along the way. Career Pathways
Career Pathways are WDI programs geared to help you launch a new career in one of many industries in Southeast Minnesota. Different Career Pathway programming is available within industries like healthcare, manufacturing, customer service, business services, and services and trades. Begin a Career Pathway conversation with one of our Career Navigators to receive individualized support along the way to sustainable, living-wage work. Contact or visit the nearest WDI office to learn more and get started! Youth & Young Adult (ages 14-24)
Making it through school, building a work history, and moving towards a career is stressful for anyone. However, you can count on WDI for reliable support and guidance through all these stages. Chat one-on one with a Career Planner to help figure out your goals, and take advantage of our many individualized and completely free services to help you get to where you want to go. Meet Your Personal Career Planner Today! Our professional Career Planners are ready to help you on your employment path with support, training, and special programs that are all designed to ensure your success. Every WDI location is staffed by experienced professionals who care deeply about the people and communities in which they live and serve.
