The Dakota-Scott Workforce Development Board has recognized local leaders and innovators who are pushing the envelope in workforce development and education. During their recent annual celebration, several awards were handed out to those making considerable strides in their respective sectors.
In a noteworthy initiative, the SouthWest Metro ISD 288 Leadership Team, consisting of Gina Boots, Natasha Halseth, and Darren Kermes, snagged the Mark McAfee Friend of Workforce Development Award. The trio stood out for their development of a teacher apprenticeship program aimed at addressing the teacher shortage crisis, and their introduction of career and technical education programs including culinary arts and drone piloting, according to Dakota County's official news release.
Hearth & Home Technologies in Lakeville was celebrated with the Bob Killeen Quality Award, for its dedication to innovative practices and quality manufacturing. They've been recognized for their ambition to slash energy use and landfill waste, heralding a greener and more sustainable future in the industry.
Addressing the critical need for school transport professionals, Andrew Mueller of First Student in St. Paul received the Business Champion Award. Representing First Student at CareerForce events, Mueller is credited for his exceptional recruitment efforts, which not only resulted in over 100 applications but also led to the hiring of at least 20 individuals, despite the challenging circumstances of bus driver and aide shortages.
Kyle Baynes of Penntek Industrial Coatings, the recipient of the Bob Klas Sr. Entrepreneur Award, epitomizes the entrepreneurial spirit. Since 2010, Baynes has transformed frustration into innovation by developing a superior floor coating product now in high demand and has built a growing network of over 125 dealers, as stated by Dakota County.
Scott County's Willis E. Branning Excellence in Youth Employment Services Award was jointly awarded to Steve McClellan of Jordan High School and Brett Kaufhold of Shakopee High School for their exceptional initiative, involving students in a real-world construction project of camper cabins, proving inspirational for several students to follow a path in the trades.
In Dakota County, another beacon of youth empowerment, ProTech Automotive was given the same honor for their unwavering support of youth, offering rich learning experiences and showing what a partnership between community stewardship and education can achieve.
Furthermore, Tony Radabaugh of Lakeville WaterWerks Car Wash was commended with the Employer of the Year for People with Disabilities Award. Recognized for providing more than just job opportunities, Radabaugh's approach has facilitated life-altering developments for his employees, emphasizing the broader social impact of inclusive employment practices.Dakota-Scott Workforce Development Board
