Centers of Excellence
In 2005, Minnesota State Colleges and Universities established centers of excellence in health care, manufacturing and engineering, and information security at four state universities and 18 community and technical colleges. These centers offer state-of-the-art programs, practical research and connections with K-12 schools and business and industry to help local economies thrive and position Minnesota for a strong future.
HealthForce Minnesota
HealthForce Minnesota is a collaborative partnership of education, industry and community that focuses on transforming health care education and delivery across the state of Minnesota.
System partners include Winona State University (lead institution), Inver Hills Community College, Lake Superior College, Minneapolis Community and Technical College, Minnesota State College - Southeast Technical, Normandale Community College, Pine Technical College, Ridgewater College, Riverland Community College and Rochester Community and Technical College.
Advance IT Minnesota
The rapidly evolving capability of information and communication technology requires an equally rapid evolution of knowledge and skills. Advance IT Minnesota engages learners, educators and information technology professionals to develop a more robust IT community in Minnesota. Find unique business, career development and networking opportunities when you connect with Advance IT Minnesota.
Founding partners include Metropolitan State University (lead institution), Inver Hills Community College and Minneapolis Community and Technical College.
360 Manufacturing and Applied Engineering Center of Excellence
360 serves manufacturing and engineering industry needs by cultivating a talented workforce through flexible education and career opportunities. 360 programs primarily deal with applied engineering, engineering technology and precision manufacturing, including automation and robotics, machining and welding.
Institutional partners include Bemidji State University (lead institution), Central Lakes College, Lake Superior College, Minneapolis Community and Technical College, Northland Community and Technical College, Northwest Technical College, Pine Technical College, Riverland Community College, St. Cloud Technical College and Saint Paul College.
Minnesota Center for Engineering and Manufacturing Excellence
The Center for Engineering and Manufacturing Excellence provides research experts, work force education, student interns, teaching institutes and long-range recruitment strategies for engaging students in science, technology, engineering and math. By providing a competitive edge to Minnesota's workforce, the center helps to ensure the future strength and vitality of Minnesota's economy.
The Center's mission includes:
- Increasing interest in engineering as a career, especially among minorities and females
- Developing engineers and technicians with skills that support advanced manufacturing milestones
- Initiating innovation in the development and use of renewable and recyclable resources
- Ensuring Minnesota industries remain globally competitive
- Assisting industry in meeting critical needs through customized training
- Promoting the use of best practices in engineering and manufacturing education
Institutional partners include Minnesota State University, Mankato (lead institution), Alexandria Technical College, Anoka Technical College, Hennepin Technical College, Normandale Community College, Northeast Higher Education District and South Central College.
