The latest episode of the “Living in McKenzie County” podcast offers a fascinating look into the career pathways available at the Bakken Area Skills Center. Host Vawnita Best delves into the center’s essential role in shaping the future workforce of McKenzie County, showcasing programs that range from heavy equipment operation to healthcare.
The episode begins with a discussion on the center’s heavy equipment operation and CDL pathways. Offering hands-on programs that align with industry needs, the center provides essential training in equipment operation, maintenance, and practical skills like blueprint reading. Industry partnerships are highlighted as key to addressing workforce shortages, ensuring that graduates are well-prepared to meet local demands.
Further on, the spotlight shifts to the building trades and welding programs. These initiatives focus on safety, craftsmanship, and real-world applications, equipping students with valuable skills for successful careers. Students share testimonies of how the center has empowered their career pursuits, emphasizing the value of a solid educational foundation.
Finally, in a focus on healthcare education, the podcast explores how the health careers curriculum blends professional development with hands-on experience. By offering job shadowing and practical skills training, the program prepares students to enter the healthcare field ready to succeed. This approach also helps retain local talent, crucial for meeting community healthcare needs.
Living in McKenzie County’ is a multi-platform content series hosted by City of Watford City Community and Business Development Director Vawnita Best, along with a roster of occasional guest hosts. Emanating from The Studio at Long X, new episodes drop the 1st and 3rd Tuesday of each month on YouTube and all major podcast platforms.
