Transportation

The transportation industry is a complex system that involves moving goods and people by land, water and air. Each of these modes of transportation comprises a wide range of employers that play a crucial role in Minnesota’s economy.

According to the Minnesota Department of Employment and Economic Development, in the first quarter of 2026, transportation and material moving occupations employed 231,390 employees in Minnesota with a projected employment increase in the sector of 253,423 in 2032.  

Validated occupational competency summaries

• Aircraft dispatcher

• Aircraft maintenance technician

• Automotive mechanic

• Automotive body repair technician

• Bus and truck diesel mechanic

• Heavy and tractor-trailer truck driver

• School bus driver

The approach to developing competency standards is found in Minnesota law. The information that informs the development of competency standards comes from a variety of sources that include but are not limited to:  Minnesota Department of Employment and Economic Development; Minnesota laws and rules; Minnesota state agencies and licensing boards; O-NET Online; Competency Model Clearinghouse from the U.S. Department of Labor, Employment and Training Administration; state, national and international trade associations and advocacy organizations; job postings and job descriptions; higher education resources; and input from attendees of industry forums, competency council meetings, public events and meetings conducted by DLI staff members. This work includes information from O*NET OnLine and the Competency Model Clearinghouse, used under the CC BY 4.0 license. DLI has modified all or some of this information. USDOL, ETA has not approved, endorsed or tested these modifications.

Questions?

Contact us at PIPELINE.Program@state.mn.us.