Skills path program established for employment-based training.

HF 405 establishes Minnesota's Skills Path Program, creating structured pathways for high school students to earn college credit while gaining paid work experience in skilled trades like manufacturing, construction, healthcare, and IT. The program requires partnerships between high schools, colleges, and employers to combine classroom learning with employment-based training (such as apprenticeships) and dual credit opportunities. Schools receiving state grants (up to $50,000 per school annually) must coordinate academic, vocational, and work-based learning, with funding covering student expenses like tools and books - not wages. This directly affects Minnesota high school students in career-focused programs, participating schools, and local employers in skilled industries.