Central ND News

Access to a skilled workforce is a major concern for companies in their site selection process. Delays in hiring can significantly impact a company's growth. To address this, the Bismarck Mandan Chamber EDC has been focusing on workforce development for several years, aiding the community in building resources and opportunities for local skill enhancement.

“Our goal is to directly meet the hiring needs of local companies while also developing a future-ready workforce,” stated Summer Sturm, Workforce Development Coordinator for the Bismarck Mandan Chamber EDC. She emphasized the dual benefits of creating sustainable careers for residents and preparing them for future industries emerging in the area.

Bismarck-Mandan collaborates with various partners to meet these objectives. The EDC partners with Bismarck Public Schools for career training curricula and connects with Team North Dakota. Acting as a link between businesses and workforce partners, the EDC aims to enhance training resources to better satisfy employer needs.

Local higher education institutions play a crucial role. They partner with businesses to ensure students acquire the skills needed in the workforce. This cooperation helps students to fill hiring gaps effectively, learning to use the equipment and tools of their future careers.

Highlighted educational institutions in Bismarck-Mandan include Bismarck State College, University of Mary, and United Tribes Technical College. These colleges offer a variety of programs and degrees, catering to different student needs and preparing them for the workforce.

The EDC regularly consults local employers to understand workforce needs, identifying gaps in the community. When companies engage with the Chamber EDC, they share potential growth insights and challenges, enabling proactive measures rather than reactive ones.

“There are several benefits of joining the Chamber EDC, but having a voice in the future economy is one of the best reasons to do so,” remarked Sturm. This collaboration seeks to anticipate and effectively respond to hiring demands.

The region continues to maintain and expand its workforce capabilities, driven by collaboration between educational institutions, businesses, and the Chamber EDC.