TERO 101: WHAT IT IS AND HOW IT WORKS FOR YOU
An introduction to the Tribal Employment Rights Office and how it supports fair employment, training, and economic opportunity within the Mille Lacs Band of Ojibwe.
By Vivian LaMoore, Inaajimowin Staff
TERO stands for Tribal Employment Rights Office. TERO is both a tribal ordinance and a federal law that allows tribal governments to regulate and monitor employment and business activities on tribal lands.
The goal of TERO is to promote business development, expand employment and training opportunities, and protect the rights of tribal members. Across Indian Country, TERO programs serve as an important tool for strengthening tribal economies and supporting community well-being.
What TERO Does
TERO helps protect tribal member rights by promoting fair labor practices and equitable treatment in the workplace, including wages and working conditions.
TERO provisions prioritize employment and training opportunities for tribal members:
• First preference: Mille Lacs Band of Ojibwe members
• Second preference: Members of other federally recognized tribes
Applying for TERO Services
Applications are available:
• Online through the Mille Lacs Band of Ojibwe website
• In person at each TERO office
• At community centers in each district
Training Opportunities
TERO has hosted free training opportunities for tribal members and plans to continue offering them in the future, including:
• 10-week Cement Masons program (annually)
• 5-week Highway Carpenter program (annually)
• 4-week Heavy Equipment Operator program (annually)
• Class A Commercial Driver's License (CDL)
• ADA Concrete Certification
Job Opportunities
Seasonal employment opportunities in the construction trades are available through the TERO Department. Indian Preference applies to all tribal entity construction projects within Mille Lacs Band reservation boundaries.
TERO also works closely with MnDOT and local trade unions to provide marketable skills training and employment pathways for tribal members. Projects include:
• Tribal construction projects
• MnDOT road projects
Contact Information
For more information, please contact:
Lori Trail, TERO Director at 320-630-2617 or Lori.Trail@millelacsband.com.
Scott Tossey, TERO Compliance Officer at 320-390-0263 or Scott.Tossey@millelacsband.com.