Northwest Technical Institute (NTI) was founded in 1957 by Mr. Norris Nelson and two other men. Its location was in downtown Minneapolis where the IDS Tower presently stands. Although the College moved to make room for the IDS tower, its founder has remained committed to the education of drafters and designers for nearly 50 years.

Mr. Nelson served as team leader for the Accrediting Commission of Career Schools and Colleges of Technology (ACCSCT) from 1974 to 1990. He has held several offices of the Minnesota State Association of Private Career Schools in addition to serving on the Governor’s Advisory Board for vocational technical schools in the early 1970’s. In October 2000, Mr. Nelson was awarded the Distinguished Career Award at the Annual Conference of the Career College Association (CCA) for service to a national association.

Mr. Nelson retired in 2005. The board then appointed Mr. Keith Fossen President and CEO, and his wife Dr. Amy Nelson CAO, both previous employees. Mr. Fossen has 20 years progressive experience managing businesses across the United States and in Europe. Dr. Nelson has 15 years experience teaching adults, and managing teaching and learning for education and industry. Mr. Nelson continues to serve on the NTI Board.