Minnesota North College is announcing new changes made to the Diesel Mechanics and Heavy Equipment and Early Childhood Education program! 

The Diesel Technician program, offered in person at the Hibbing Campus, has changed from a two-year, four-semester program to an 11-month, three-semester program. This change will allow for students to enter the workforce more rapidly, and a focused additional summer session on electronic diagnostics, as well as internship placements, will help the program align with changing industry demands.  

James Nordahl is the new program faculty, who is also an alumnus of the program. Nordahl graduated from the diesel program in 2018. He previously worked at Titan Machinery, working on farm equipment, combines, and tractors.  

“Teaching has always been a part of my life, being a father of six. “I’m thrilled to teach the program that made such a difference in my own life.” 

The Early Childhood Education program is adding two new educational opportunities: the Child Development Certificate (9) and Child Development Diploma (31 credits). An IRRR Higher Education grant supported the work for the program redesign that helped create education opportunities responsive to the current needs for the early childhood workforce. 

The 9-credit certificate is aligned with the standards for the national Child Development Associate credential (CDA). The grant also funds adjunct faculty coaches to guide students through obtaining their CDA and financial assistance for materials and exam fees. 

The 31-credit diploma is a product of the newly re-aligned curriculum between two of our campuses. Students can earn credit for prior learning (CPL) if they have previous experience working in the field or an existing CDA credential. The diploma is a stepping stone towards the completion of a two-year degree. 

“Our team is enthusiastic about expanding the early childhood workforce in our local communities and bringing more individuals into this vital field.” said Itasca Program Director, Cody Geisler.