Collectively, Center for Excellence institutions represent the largest and most diverse coordinated network of programs across the entire spectrum of engineering, engineering technology, and technical programs within the Minnesota State Colleges and Universities System, and are acknowledged state leaders in manufacturing, manufacturing engineering technology, and engineering.

MINNESOTA STATE UNIVERSITY, MANKATO, Lead University
Mankato, MN Campus
College of Science, Engineering, and Technology
Preparing students to compete as leaders in a rapidly changing global marketplace and to adapt to the dramatic changes in engineering practice expected in coming decades. With state-of-the-art-laboratory facilities and curricula accredited by the Accreditation Board for Engineering and Technology (ABET), students learn in an environment that encourages critical thinking and creative problem-solving.

Faculty motivates students to excel in challenging design projects, to participate in applied research opportunities with regional industries, and to take part in collegiate contests such as the Automotive Formula SAE, steel bridge, concrete canoe, and robotics competitions. Six key departments offer industry-related challenges for university students:

Automotive and Manufacturing Technology
Bio Technology
Computer Sciences
Electrical and Computer Engineering and Technology
Information Systems and Information Technology
Mechanical and Civil Engineering

Applied Research
Advancing renewable energy in conjunction with the Center for Automotive Research, Minnesota State University, Mankato is nationally recognized for research and development assistance given to industry and governmental agencies. The Center for Pervasive Computing and Communication is a collaborative industry-faculty-student research project in wireless, mobile, and embedded applications.
Contact: John Knox , Dean, College of Science, Engineering & Technology

ALEXANDRIA TECHNICAL COLLEGE
Alexandria, MN Campus
Advanced Automation Training
The Center for Automation & Motion Control is designated an IEC 61131-3 advanced automation training center, one of only four certified education institutions worldwide and the only certified institution in North America. Over 100 students are enrolled in programs that include Fluid Power Technology, Manufacturing engineering Technician, and Machine Assembly Specialist.
Contact: Chad Coauette , Dean, Customized Training

ANOKA TECHNICAL COLLEGE
Anoka, MN Campus

Engineering and Technical Degrees
Anoka Technical College (ATC) offers 28 programs, many of which culminate in technical or engineering technology degrees, including the A.A.S Electronics Engineering Technology degree.  In the manufacturing and engineering areas, ATC also has degree, diploma, and certificate programs in Automotive, Drafting and Design, Machine Trades, and Welding Technology.

Corporate Center
Anoka Technical College helps industry train highly-skilled incumbent workers in a unique, successful program for employees. production supervisors are taught to communicate well, to lead and inspire, and to positively change corporate culture to boost worker productivity.

High School Technical Education
The Secondary Technical Education Program (STEP), a high school program co-sponsored by Anoka Technical College and Anoka-Hennepin School District, produces equally impressive results. With hands-on engineering technology courses offered through Project Lead the Way, a national engineering curriculum for high school and middle school students, students learn a spectrum of skills from digital electronics to computer integrated manufacturing. Students benefit from small classes and industry standard labs and equipment.  They are encouraged to pursue college degrees—over 85 percent of students enrolled in STEP continue in engineering or engineering technology programs at the college level.
Contact: Bob Evans, Instructor, Electronics Engineering Technology

HENNEPIN TECHNICAL COLLEGE
Eden Prairie & Brooklyn Park, MN Campuses
Technical Training
Hennepin Technical College responds to industry needs with programs and labs representing the highest standards in technical training.  Expanded offerings in key focus areas, including the Swiss Machining Institute and M-Powered fast-track training in metalworking, establish Hennepin Technical College as an education leader preparing highly-skilled workers who impact manufacturing operations through increased productivity and greater efficiency.
Contact: Joe Mulford , Dean, Manufacturing, Engineering Technology & Customized Training

NORMANDALE COMMUNITY COLLEGE
Bloomington, MN Campus
Future Engineers
Normandale Community College Associate of Science in Engineering Foundations offers a rigorous yet flexible curriculum designed to prepare students for any of several engineering majors.

Normandale Community College also provides a Associate in Applied Science Degree in Nanotechnology with Emphasis in Vacuum Technology and Surface Science or Semiconductor Process Technician. This program is designed to provide the knowledge and skills to perform as a technician in semiconductor manufacturing.
Contact: Peggy Rejito, Dean, Natural Sciences, Mathematics & Education

NORTHEAST HIGHER EDUCATION DISTRICT
Ely, Eveleth, Grand Rapids, Hibbing, International Falls & Virginia Campuses

Building Tomorrow's Workforce
Created to promote academic cooperation among institutions and maximize educational resources in northern Minnesota, the Northeast Higher Education District is comprised of five institutions. Each member is noted for engineering and manufacturing programs that are responsive to industry's needs. With programs ranging from pre-engineering to engineering technology, to specialized instruction supporting the mining industry to customized training that gives incumbent employees new skills, each college brings commitment and innovation to the Center for Excellence.

Hibbing Community College, Hibbing
Itasca Community College, Grand Rapids
Mesabi Range Community and Technical College, Virginia & Eveleth
Vermillion Community College, Ely
Rainy River Community College, International Falls
Contact: Sue Collins, President, Northeast Higher Education District

Nationally acclaimed, Itasca Community College delivers an engineering program that incorporates design, ethics, and service to society. Itasca prepares engineers who will impact tomorrow's world.

SOUTH CENTRAL COLLEGE
North Mankato & Faribault, MN Campuses

Facilitating Success
South Central College mentors students pursing technical education with an outstanding, responsive Academic Support Center. A strong foundation in math and communication is essential for success in the Computer Integrated Machining programs, which consists of both classroom and lab experiences. Contact: Suzanne Nordblom, Dean, Agribusiness, Industrial & Construction Technology