Empower Through Education
Wells Academy
Helping Native American people in economically disadvantaged areas.
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Paid While You Train
40-hour paid work weeks with on-the-job training
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1 Year / 2,000 Hours
No experience necessary
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Journeyworker Certification
Earned from the State of Minnesota
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Now Accepting Applications Through December 31, 2026
Take the first step toward a paid, skilled career in CNC manufacturing.
Get Started
Start Your Career in 3 Steps
Watch two short videos, then tell us about yourself. It's that easy.
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Step 1: Learn How CNC Machinists Shape the World!
A short look at what CNC machinists build. (2:53 video)
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Step 2: Learn About Wells Technology Inc. and CNC Careers
Meet Wells Technology and see what a CNC career can look like. (7:25 video)
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Step 3: Let's Get to Know You
Information Form / Application / Resume. Applications are open through December 31, 2026.
Who We Are
Training That Changes Lives
We are a 501(c)(3) educational program for disadvantaged Native American applicants interested in positive life change as well as a certification in CNC manufacturing.
In addition to our State-approved curriculum, students are taught life skills to prepare them for healthy living within our communities.
Founded in 2005 by Andrew "Andy" Wells III, our Executive Director and the CEO and Founder of Wells Technology, our academy gives opportunity to otherwise non-qualified employees who lack experience and training.
Meet Our Founder
From Red Lake to CEO
Andrew "Andy" Wells III
Founder & Executive Director, Wells Academy. CEO and Founder, Wells Technology.
Andy grew up on the Red Lake Indian Reservation. He dreamed big and worked hard, and today he leads Wells Technology in Bemidji.
In 2005 he founded Wells Academy so others would get the same opportunity. His journey is a huge inspiration for Native American kids who don't think they could become a CEO one day.
"Our goal is to strengthen communities by providing training and jobs to otherwise unqualified employee applicants." — Andy Wells
See It in Action
Inside the Shop
Take a quick look at training at Wells Technology Inc.
Our Mission
Why We Exist
Wells Academy strives to help Native American people in economically disadvantaged areas.
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Fill Skilled Jobs
To provide CNC machinists and skilled industrial employees to fill open job positions.
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Train & Mentor
To provide individualized on-the-job training through a student program and mentoring.
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Build Balance
To bring employment-challenged groups into balance with the general population.
Train at Wells Technology Inc.
Learn as You Earn
CNC Operator Apprenticeship Training: a 1-year, 2,000-hour paid program. No experience necessary.
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State-of-the-Art Equipment
Facility
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Professional Instructors
Instruction
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Paid While You Train
Pay
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MN Journeyworker
Credential
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Cultural Training
Part of our whole-person approach alongside technical training.
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Personal Finance Training
Practical money skills to support long-term stability.
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Manufacturing Awareness Trip
Visits to other manufacturers outside of Wells.
Get Involved
Make a Difference
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Donate
Make a donation to give opportunity and to inspire hope.
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Golf Tournament
Thank you for joining us at the 2026 Wells Academy Golf Tournament. We look forward to seeing you at our 10th Annual Tournament on Friday, September 10, 2027!
Contact
Contact Wells Academy Inc.
Questions about the program, donating, or the golf tournament? Send us a message.