Central ND News

Senator John Hoeven recently met with the North Dakota Space Grant Consortium to discuss expanding STEM education opportunities for students. Hoeven, a long-time supporter of the Space Grant program, highlighted its role in providing fellowships and scholarships that help students pursue careers in high-tech fields. He emphasized the importance of strengthening North Dakota's position as a leader in space research and technology.

Hoeven discussed initiatives like the Space Development Agency’s low-Earth orbit satellite mission in Grand Forks and the Sky Range program using modified Global Hawks for hypersonic missile testing. These projects are positioning North Dakota at the forefront of new space operations and military communications.

The senator noted how these efforts attract companies such as BlueHalo, which create high-paying jobs in aerospace, defense, and cybersecurity. Recently, BlueHalo announced an expansion of its operations in Grand Forks, a development supported by Hoeven through funding partnerships with Bismarck State College.

“The Space Grant Consortium provides valuable opportunities for North Dakota students to gain hands-on experience in space science and technology,” said Hoeven. “As a member of the Senate Appropriations Committee, I will continue supporting the Space Grant program, which has allowed students to intern at NASA’s research centers and contribute to space-related research."

Hoeven also focused on securing resources for preparing students for future careers vital to both state and national economies. His efforts include supporting programs that enhance school districts' STEM capacities and advocating legislation to expand National Science Foundation STEM initiatives aimed at increasing participation among young girls.