Bemidji State Partners with Polaris to Offer Manufacturing Program to Students

ROSEAU — Bemidji State University and Polaris recently partnered to offer the Polaris Manufacturing Operations Development Program, which was commemorated with a ribbon-cutting ceremony July 9 in Roseau.

According to a release, the program will provide Minnesota high school graduates with the opportunity to develop their skills and experience while continuing their education and earning a living. The 19-month paid internships will take place at the Polaris manufacturing facility in Roseau, with tuition and housing covered for 15 interns.

“We know that workforce needs are changing,” BSU President John Hoffman said in a statement. “This is a great example of how BSU is responding by changing what we do so that high school graduates who want or need to go directly into the workforce can still achieve their college dreams.”

Students participating in the program will earn 30 college credits and a Certificate of Operational Development. The credits can be used for future educational endeavors, including earning a bachelor’s degree at BSU.

The program combines real-world experience with 10 college-level courses over five semesters. Each day, interns will work on-site until mid-afternoon, followed by online classes at BSU.

Students who successfully complete the program will also have the opportunity to continue their employment at Polaris with an additional $5,000 per year to continue their education.

“The partnership with Bemidji State creates a next-level opportunity for students to immerse themselves in challenging missions through coursework and hands-on experience,” said Anthony Lindgren, principal of Polaris Roseau. “Polaris is always looking for unique opportunities to attract and retain smart, motivated individuals who share our passion for the powersports industry.”

BSU Provost and Vice President for Academic Affairs Allen Bedford noted that the partnership demonstrates Bemidji State’s commitment to meeting industry needs in northern Minnesota.

“Our biggest challenge is finding ways to serve a region that spans about 200 miles north to south and 300 miles east to west. We can’t do that without partnerships,” Bedford said. “Bemidji State has to be part of the solution to help communities thrive together. Polaris is invested in the health of this region and so is BSU.”

Applications are currently being accepted, with selected students beginning their hands-on training on Monday, August 19, and online classes through BSU beginning Monday, August 26. To apply, visit polaris.com/en-us/careers.

For more information about the Polaris Manufacturing Operations Development Program, contact BSU Transfer Partnership Coordinator Dan Voss at [email protected].