Carol Pankow to lead DEED workforce services.

Byline: William Morris

Minnesota has named a workforce development veteran to lead efforts to reduce barriers between potential workers and employers.

Carol Pankow will serve as assistant commissioner for workforce services, the Department of Employment and Economic Development announced Monday. The workforce services division oversees a range of programs and services geared to help unemployed and laid-off individuals find new employment.

"I wanted to find someone who is passionate about serving our customers in workforce services and who believes in the ability of any Minnesotan regardless of their background or skill set to contribute meaningfully to our economy," DEED Commissioner Steve Grove said in a press release. "Carol is just that leader, which is why I'm thrilled to elevate her into this new role."

Pankow has lengthy experience in the field starting in the 1980s with the Faribault Regional...