Learn & Earn

LEARN & EARN

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Learn & Earn:
Grow, Inspire, Succeed

The Learn & Earn program is designed to equip students with essential workplace skills, industry-recognized certifications, and hands-on experiences through internships, job shadowing, and worksite tours. This course integrates career readiness training with real-world learning opportunities to prepare students for success in post-secondary education and the workforce.

OSHA 10 Certification

Online or in-person training provided.

Completion of coursework and final assessment required for certification.

Microsoft Office Suite Training

Modules covering Word, Excel, PowerPoint, and Outlook.

Demonstration of proficiency through assignments and projects.

StrengthsFinder Assessment & Activities

Complete the Gallup StrengthsFinder Assessment.

Participate in reflection activities and discussions on strengths-based career planning.

Internship Placement

Work with the instructor to secure an internship aligned with career interests.

Maintain a journal of experiences and submit a final reflection.
Supervisor evaluation required for successful completion.

Worksite Tours

Attend scheduled industry visits with local employers.

Complete reflection activities after each tour.

Job Shadowing Opportunities

Participate in job shadowing experiences.

Submit a summary report detailing observations and key takeaways.

Course Objectives

How It Works

Students in Goodhue County who are 17 or 18 years old can participate in the Learn & Earn Program. Students apply and, when accepted, engage in a number of career-connected learning opportunities that include two certificates and earning college credit!

2025-2026 Timeline

October-November: OSHA-10, Strengths, Microsoft Office

December-January: Industry Tours

February-May: Paid Internships

Program Coordinator

The Learn & Earn Program Coordinator is Liz Diggins. Liz is a licensed teacher with the Goodhue County Education District who

specializes in providing students with a high-quality career connected learning in order to support students having a meaningful post-high school plan and pathway.

Contact Liz

Phone: 651-388-4441

Email: ediggins@gced.k12.mn.us

Business Involvement

For businesses in Goodhue County that focus on Trades, Manufacturing and Agribusiness, the Learn & Earn Program is a great opportunity to build a local talent pipeline. There are a few different ways to get involved.

Industry Tours

Occurring in December-January and April-May, Industry Tours allow your business to showcase what it does and the various career pathways that exist in your business to students in the Learn & Earn Program.

Internships

Students typically receive one/two placements with local employers – one for February/March and one for April/May. Students are paid at a rate of minimum wage and generally take place three mornings a week.

Ready to Learn & Earn?

Start your journey toward career success today - contact program coordinator Liz Diggins at 651-388-4441 or ediggins@gced.k12.mn.us.