1. Mission and Network Operations Center
On Thursday, June 26, Vantis, North Dakota’s statewide uncrewed aircraft BVLOS system held the grand opening of its Mission and Network Operations Center (MNOC) at Grand Sky Business and Aviation Park. It will serve as the command center of the entire BVLOS network, a crucial role in coordinating and ensuring safety for UAS flights.
2. Statewide Talent Attraction Initiative
North Dakota has launched a first-of-its-kind talent attraction initiative and re-launch of Find the Good Life. The initiative will focus on personal connections to drive workforce development in the state by utilizing community champions to engage with newcomers and connect them with potential employers, volunteer opportunities, and more. EDC Director of Workforce Development, Becca Cruger has been selected to serve as one of the first 50 trained community champions. Others include community leaders, economic development professionals, and job service officials.
3. Space Development Agency
The Grand Forks Air Force Base celebrated its ribbon-cutting ceremony as the new home of the Space Development Agency’s (SDA) first Operations and Integration Center. The National Defense Space Architecture provides high-speed tactical data transport and supports the Department of Defense’s move to a multi-orbit missile warning, tracking, and defense architecture. The program is recognized as a transformational new mission for the local base, providing a strong mission and vision moving forward.
4. Fenworks
Grand Forks Region EDC member Fenworks has been awarded the Grow Grand, Best Place to Work Award from Greater Grand Forks Young Professionals. Fenworks was recognized for the great benefits and opportunities they provide their employees, along with the high percentage of young professionals on their team!
5. Home Rule Charter
On Thursday, June 16, the Grand Forks County Commission held a public town hall meeting at Red River High School in Grand Forks. The commission is considering a change in the county’s local government from Statutory Rule to Home Rule. The goal would be to provide the county with more control to create ordinances and laws based on what local voters deem important. Learn more about Home Rule and provide input to the county through a survey on the county’s website.
6. Cruger Judges International Economic Development Awards
Becca Cruger was invited to travel to Washington, DC this month, to serve as a judge for the 2022 Excellence in Economic Development Awards. The awards honor the efforts of individuals and organizations in creating positive change in their communities. Winners are recognized at IEDC’s Annual Conference.
7. UND + North Spark Defense Lab
U.S. Air Force Col. Timothy Curry, 319th Reconnaissance Wing commander, and Andrew Armacost, UND President signed an educational partnership agreement during the Northern Thunder Air & Space Expo on June 18. The UND Center for Innovation has been actively working with the North Spark Defense Lab at the Grand Forks AFB over the past few years on various innovation-related projects. This agreement allows UND and the North Spark Defense Lab to share resources and collaborate more efficiently.
8. Lund Speaks at EDND Conference
Last week, EDC President & CEO Keith Lund attended the annual Economic Development Association of North Dakota (EDND) Conference, where he presented tips and best practices for engaging with local elected officials.
9. Fufeng USA
During their June 6 meeting, Grand Forks City Council voted to annex a portion of land north of town which is expected to serve as the future location of the Fufeng USA Wet Corn Milling Plant. You can keep up with the progress of Fufeng USA on the City’s Website.
10. Altru Health System
Amidst the construction of its new $380 million hospital, Altru Health System has announced plans to partner with Universal Health Services on a new behavioral health facility in Grand Forks. The facility plans to provide high-quality inpatient mental health care for residents of our region.