The Cool Jobs Tour in Elk River is transforming how students, parents, and community members view modern manufacturing. Organized by the Elk River Area Chamber of Commerce, Independent School District 728 (ISD 728), and local employer partners, this annual event takes place during Minnesota’s Manufacturing Month every October.  

Image

The target audience is middle school, high school and parents but is open to anyone that is interested in exploring a career in manufacturing. The tours get behind-the-scenes access to leading local employers like Metal Craft, Sportech, CAD, J & J Machine, Heritage Millworks and CDI Curbs this year. Participants walk the facility floors, observe high tech machinery in action, and connect directly with industry professionals. The panel at the end of the event talks about the career opportunities available, education requirements and resources: including CTE High School Internships, tuition assistance and the great wages. 

Why the Cool Jobs Tour Matters: 

Image

• It highlights local career opportunities: high-paying, in-demand technical careers are available right in Central Minnesota without requiring massive student debt. 

• It showcases multiple career pathways in manufacturing: there are a variety of entriy points into the industry from high school internships and two-year technical certificates to four-year engineering degrees. 

• It offers hands-on exposure: students and parents get a clear picture of daily operations, workplace culture and what it really takes to manufacture modern products. 

• It strengthens the talent pipeline: the tour bridges the gap between local employers needing skilled talent and local schools shaping the upcoming workforce. 

By opening production facility doors to the public, the Cool Jobs Tour proves that building a thriving, future-proof career doesn't always require leaving your hometown. 

The Cool Jobs Tour takes place October 22 between 4-7:30 p.m. Several tour options are available with everyone ending the day from 6-7:30 p.m. with a tour of Metal Craft and a career exploration and training opportunities panel discussion. 

Everyone is welcome on the free Cool Jobs Tour. Middle and high school students are especially encouraged to attend with their parents. Registration is required.  

• Find out about Manufacturing Month events in your part of Minnesota