Workforce Development Coordinators provide career-connected learning opportunities for high school students by establishing dialog and relationships between rural school districts and the business community. These opportunities help students explore careers within the region in the hopes of either encouraging them to return to our communities after receiving the necessary training for their field or to stay in our community after high school graduation if immediately entering the workforce.

Regional Workforce Coordinators work within high schools to engage with students and help them make connections with potential future careers and employers. Coordinators set up tours to local businesses and helps share information with students on what training is needed for these types of jobs or if they can do them right out of high school. Some of the career exploration opportunities available include:

• Class presentations
• Field trips
• Class experiences with local businesses
• Small group career exploration tours
• Large career exploration events, such as career fairs

Workforce Development Coordinators are contracted through Community and Economic Development Associates (CEDA).

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Workforce Development Coordinators

Amber Patten, Janesville-Waldorf-Pemberton

Amber Patten joined CEDA in November 2022 as an Economic & Business Development Specialist for Martin County and Faribault County Public Schools. Amber has worked as an Office Administrator for a Minnesota based power agency. She is involved as a community member, volunteering her time with various organizations. Amber enjoys working with people and communities in rural areas to help develop and sustain the current and future generations. Amber and her husband Zac have two children. In her free time, Amber enjoys watching her children’s activities, watching sports, and hanging out with family and friends.

Contact Information: amber.patten@cedausa.com

Jack Wheeler, Tri-City United and LeSueur-Henderson

Jack Wheeler joined CEDA in May 2024 after graduating with his Masters in Public Administration and Community Management from Minnesota State University, Mankato. Before coming to CEDA, Jack worked in event planning for the school, and found his passion connecting communities via events. In his free time Jack enjoys watching the Minnesota Vikings, volunteering at BENCHS, and trying new coffee spots!

Contact Information: jack.wheeler@cedausa.com

Pam Krill, United South Central and New Richland-Hartland-Ellendale-Geneva

Pam Krill joined CEDA in October 2023 as a Workforce Coordinator, serving the United South Central (USC) School District in Wells, MN, and the New Richland, Hartland, Ellendale, and Geneva (NRHEG) School Districts. A retired United States Air Force veteran with 21 years of honorable service, Pam brings a deep understanding of the importance of fostering career opportunities in rural communities to support their continued growth. As an EDA and HRA Specialist, she is dedicated to driving economic development and enhancing local opportunities.

Pam is actively involved in veterans' organizations, including the Disabled American Veterans (DAV), Veterans of Foreign Wars (VFW),and the American Legion. In her spare time, she enjoys bowling, volunteering, and spending quality time with family and friends.

Contact Information: pam.krill@cedausa.com

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