DEED’s Xcel Energy Power Up Program Provides a Chance for Change



DEED Developments










DEED’s Xcel Energy Power Up Program Provides a Chance for Change

As part of DEED’s efforts in workforce development, DEED offers programs for education, training and retraining for workers seeking new careers. One is the Xcel Energy Power Up program, a public-private partnership that prepares workers for employment in in-demand fields related to energy and construction trades. The program is facilitating change for workers and supporting Minnesota’s clean energy goals.

Nicole Manderscheid works at the Xcel Energy Sherco site in Becker, transforming what is the largest coal-fired plant in Minnesota into the largest solar facility in the Midwest. It’s demanding and exciting work that helps her close each workday with a sense of accomplishment. She used the Power Up program to reskill after feeling restless and uninspired in her post-college office job.

A white hard hat sits on a table behind a pair of black sunglasses.

“I’m proud to put on my work boots every day, take on a new set of challenges and help build America,” said Nicole Manderscheid, a program graduate. “The Power Up program was a good experience. It helped me embark on a new career.”

Looking for apprenticeship opportunities in construction, Nicole found Power Up. Through the program, DEED and Xcel Energy work with seven community-based organizations to train and provide job placement for Minnesotans who are underrepresented in energy- and construction trades-related fields. Nicole enrolled in the program through Central Minnesota Jobs and Training Services (CMJTS), a CareerForce [ [link removed] ] partner.

“I knew I wanted to get into union construction. I had to learn more about each of the trades before jumping in and the CMJTS program helped me to ease in,” said Nicole. “They offered assessments, OSHA 10 certification, career counseling, wage information and other resources, and also had guests discuss their career as skilled tradespeople in union construction.”

With a better idea of what kinds of career paths were available in construction and suited her career trajectory, Nicole continued the program at Building Strong Communities, a multi-trade apprenticeship preparatory program that offers union-endorsed training and hands-on experience.

Nicole graduated from the Power Up program in May 2024 and started working as an Ironworkers Local #512 union apprentice in August 2024. Now at the Sherco site, Nicole found a well-paying career that is a great fit for her.

Explore education, training and retraining opportunities on DEED’s website [ [link removed] ] or contact staff at a CareerForce location near you [ [link removed] ].

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