Office of Strategic Engagement
We don't just educate, we cultivate.
Welcome to the Office of Strategic Engagement at M State, where industry engagement is not just a concept but a crucial mission. We recognize that the future of our workforce hinges on strong collaboration between education and industry, and our office is dedicated to bridging the gap between academia and the professional world. We build sustainable relationships with companies to ensure our students receive real-world experience, cutting-edge knowledge, and the skills necessary to thrive in the world of work. Our commitment to industry engagement is at the core of our mission to empower our students and enrich our communities. Together with our partners, we equip students with the tools they need to succeed in their careers and drive regional economic growth, building a stronger, more resilient workforce for today and tomorrow.
-------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------
Read our current newsletter:
Read Strategic Insights to learn more about our new cannabis certificate programs, Good Jobs Challenge Grant, scholarship ceremonies and more.
-------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------
Partner with us
Enlist our help with customized training for your workers, join an M State Program Advisory Board, sponsor a student, be a guest speaker in a classroom, share internship and mentorship opportunities with students, and more. Fill out our online Employer Interest Form to get started, or reach out to our office. M State and industry partnerships benefit businesses, workers, our college and our students. We look forward to partnering with you!
Our Current Corporate Engagement Partners
M State's corporate partners work directly with us to increase their visibility and engagement with students. Corporate engagement opportunities are available at all four M State campuses, last for one full year and are renewable. For more information on becoming a corporate engagement partner, contact Craig Beytien, Vice President - Strategic Engagement.
-------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------
About our VP
Craig Beytien
Vice President for Strategic Engagement
Beytien is a proud native of Minnesota and brings to M State a wealth of knowledge and expertise cultivated over a career spanning more than 25 years in higher education. With a diverse background encompassing both the private and public sectors, he has consistently demonstrated his passion for bridging the gap between academia and industry.
Formerly serving as the Executive Director for Corporate Relations at the University of Wisconsin, Beytien has dedicated his professional life to fostering meaningful connections between businesses and educational institutions. His unwavering commitment to enhancing the educational experience extends to supporting students, faculty and program development, ensuring that both learnings and educators thrive in an ever-evolving landscape.
In his role at M State, Beytien continues to be a catalyst for innovation, pushing the boundaries of what higher education can achieve through collaboration and synergy between academia and the corporate world. His dedication to nurturing these vital partnerships underscores his belief in the transformative power of education to shape a brighter future for all.
Contact Beytien at craig.beytien@minnesota.edu or 218.299.6565.
-------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------