Mining careers continue to dominate discussions about northern Minnesota’s economic future. And it’s true; a number of jobs are coming down the pike.

Those jobs were the subject of a career fair held last week at the Minnesota Discovery Center in Chisholm. Interviews were held on the spot and I don’t doubt some hires will transpire as a result. But as a job-seeking friend of mine said, “It’s a lottery.” In other words, the jobs available do not equal the qualified job seekers. Not yet, anyway.

The mines have become very sophisticated in their hiring; seeking more education and certain character/personality traits they feel best reflect the needs of the changing industry.

The Minnesota Department of Employment and Economic Development did produce a fine graphic depicting the kinds of jobs found in modern iron mining. You may wish to check out the graphic or go below the jump for a glimpse.

Unfortunately I could not resist Tweeting some political humor over this subject:

Lobbyist? @positivelymn Can you name the top 10 mining occupations in Northeast Minnesota? goo.gl/HnDxP
— Aaron Brown (@minnesotabrown) January 25, 2013

Find the actual DEED employment graphic below: