Minnesota Return to Office: State Workers
- Minnesota is moving forward with a plan to bring its state employees back to the office under a hybrid work model.
- Wayne Waslaski, assistant commissioner at the minnesota Department of Administration, said the return to office initiative will not drastically alter the state's overall strategy. Many employees will continue...
- A key element of the state's strategy is the adoption of shared workstations.
Minnesota state employees are preparing for a return to the office under a new hybrid work plan, marking a critically important shift in workplace strategy. This move, spearheaded by Governor Walz, aims to rejuvenate workplace culture and boost collaboration among the state’s workforce, affecting roughly 40,000 individuals. the plan integrates shared workstations and a reduced office footprint, signifying a modern approach to office dynamics, even amidst union opposition. Wayne Waslaski, from the department of Administration, provides key insights into how the state is adapting it’s strategies. This story, brought to you via News Directory 3, explores the specifics of this shift, including the details on shared workspaces.Discover how Minnesota is balancing flexibility with the advantages of in-person teamwork.
Minnesota State Employees to Return to Office Under Hybrid work Plan
Updated May 31, 2025
Minnesota is moving forward with a plan to bring its state employees back to the office under a hybrid work model. While labor unions have voiced opposition, Gov. walz has defended the policy, emphasizing its flexibility and potential to improve workplace culture.The state employs approximately 40,000 individuals, making it the second-largest employer in Minnesota, after the Mayo Clinic.
Wayne Waslaski, assistant commissioner at the minnesota Department of Administration, said the return to office initiative will not drastically alter the state’s overall strategy. Many employees will continue to work remotely for half of their time, which will reduce the state’s space requirements compared to pre-pandemic levels.
A key element of the state’s strategy is the adoption of shared workstations. At the Administration Building in St. Paul, teams will work on-site together on designated days. Cubicles have been reduced in size to 6 by 8 feet and must be cleared at the end of each day. Employees can store personal items in nearby locker rooms.
Waslaski noted that even the senior leadership team at the Department of Administration has transitioned from private offices to shared workspaces.
“From a space standpoint, we’ll still be in a smaller footprint even after accommodating for the updated telework policy,” Waslaski said.
What’s next
The state will continue to monitor the implementation of the hybrid work plan and make adjustments as needed to optimize both employee productivity and workplace culture. The focus remains on balancing flexibility with the benefits of in-person collaboration for Minnesota state employees.