Exploring Opportunities: A High School Junior’s Experience with the Minnesota Trades Academy

For Alex Maki, a junior at White Bear Lake High School, this past summer was anything but ordinary. Through the Minnesota Trades Academy (MTA), he immersed himself in a hands-on learning experience exploring various trades—a journey that not only shaped his skills but also opened his eyes to potential career paths.

Alex Maki

MTA proved to be a rewarding and eye-opening experience. “[It’s been] interesting. I’ve taken a lot out of it and learned so much,” he shared. Throughout the summer, he rotated through several trades, including plumbing, carpentry, cement masonry, bricklaying, and learning large machinery. The program offered him hands-on experience with tools, teamwork, and problem-solving.

An event at school about construction careers caught his attention because the idea of working with his hands and learning a variety of skills intrigued him. “I wasn’t too familiar with the trades, but I’ve always liked working with my hands,” he said. His curiosity led him to apply for MTA, where he found the perfect environment to explore new opportunities.

The MTA program is an incredible chance for students like Alex to explore his interests and build a foundation for his future.

“It’s a great opportunity to learn about all the different trades,” he said. “It’s fun and unique. Plus, it’s a paid internship!”

As he moves forward, one thing is certain: his summer with MTA has equipped him with valuable skills, confidence, and a sense of purpose.

For young people like Alex, programs like MTA provide a hands-on introduction to rewarding careers while showcasing the endless possibilities available in the skilled trades.