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Living in McKenzie County (Season 1, Episode 9): Building a People Pipeline

The latest episode of Living in McKenzie County podcast welcomes listeners to an engaging discussion on Cooperative Work Experience (CWE) programs and their impact on workforce development in McKenzie County. Hosted by Vawnita Best, Community and Business Development Director for The City of Watford City, the episode gathers insights from Nikki Darrington, District Conservationist for […]

Living in McKenzie County (Season 1, Episode 8): Wintering Well

Welcome to another engaging discussion from “Living in McKenzie County,” where host Daniel Stenberg navigates the complexities and splendors of winter alongside his guests Bekah Engebretson, Nick Ybarra, and Calli Thorne. Episode eight sheds light on finding optimism amidst winter’s daunting yet stunning attributes by exploring the mental and physical preparations our guests employ during […]

Living in McKenzie County (Season 1, Episode 7): Cooperative Work Experience

In the latest episode of “Living in McKenzie County,” host Daniel Stenberg dives into an insightful discussion on the Cooperative Work Experience (CWE) program, a long-standing initiative within the community that offers high school seniors a remarkable opportunity to enhance their career readiness. Daniel is joined by three enthusiastic students from the program, Aidan Pelton, […]

Williston State College to offer four-year bachelor’s degree programs

Williston State College (WSC) has partnered with Dickinson State University and Mayville State University to offer four-year bachelor’s degree programs directly on WSC’s campus. This collaboration allows students to earn degrees in fields like secondary education, business and social sciences without relocating, addressing workforce needs in western North Dakota. Through the new Memorandums of Understanding, […]

January 2025 Economy at a Glance

The January 2025 Economy at a Glance is now available. Some data of note include: McKenzie County’s landfill daily averages in 2024 was 994.8 tons; in 2023 it was 945.8 tons. McKenzie County’s LoadPass Permits in 2024 was 31,600 permits; in 2023 it was 29,499 permits. The Theodore Roosevelt National Park had approximately 67,900 visits […]

Rural-focused documentary series My Town to feature Watford City

The rural-focused documentary series My Town, created by Emmy-winning documentarian Cory Hepola, will feature Watford City, ND, in its upcoming second season. The series explores the stories behind why people choose to live in small towns, highlighting opportunity, innovation and a strong sense of community. Hepola describes Watford City as a place where “independent spirit […]

Region 1 projected to have highest employee growth in North Dakota

The North Dakota Labor Market Information Center has published statewide and regional employment projections through 2033, analyzing over 100 industries and 700 occupations. The report provides detailed insights into job growth, industry trends, workforce exits, occupation transfers, average wages and required entry-level education. Offering a ten-year outlook, these projections help stakeholders understand labor demand across […]

Living in McKenzie County (Season 1, Episode 6): Legislative Priorities

With the 69th Legislative Session in North Dakota in full swing, Season 1, Episode 6 of “Living in McKenzie County” brought together District 26 leadership in the form of Senator Dale Patten, Representatives Jeremy Olson, and Roger Maki. Led by host Vawnita Best, the discussion covered a wide range of topics, from committee roles to […]

Living in McKenzie County (Season 1, Episode 5): Events and Community Vibrancy

In the latest episode of “Living in McKenzie County,” guest host Jessie Veeder Scofield, Director of The Long X Arts Foundation, explores the vibrant community life in Watford City and McKenzie County. Joined by Chris Kubal, Executive Director of The McKenzie County Ag Expo, and Joshua Nollmeyer, Recreation & Events Director of The Rough Rider […]

Growth of North Dakota and McKenzie County

North Dakota’s population reached a record 796,568 as of July 1, 2024, marking the largest increase since 2020, according to U.S. Census Bureau estimates. This represents a growth of 17,474 residents since the 2020 census and 12,642 more than the 2023 estimate. Governor Kelly Armstrong attributed the growth to the state’s job opportunities, low taxes, […]