In this episode of Living in McKenzie County, McKenzie County Economic Development Director Meghan Taunton engages with local experts to discuss the landscape of small business development in the area. The panel features Cyrena Weeks, Executive Director of the Tri-County Regional Development Council; Keith Olson, Regional Director for the Small Business Development Center; and Susan Granrud, Workforce Center Manager at the Williston Job Service. Their discussion highlights the robust entrepreneurial ecosystem in the area and provides valuable advice and resources for aspiring business owners.

The panel begins by exploring the rich opportunities and unique challenges local businesses face, emphasizing the need for customized support systems. Keith Olson underscores the variety of services offered by the Small Business Development Center, such as helping entrepreneurs create business plans and explore financing options. He advises potential business owners to be prepared for a journey that may take time but is aided by a comprehensive support network offering no-cost advising services and convenient resources to launch successful ventures.

The conversation shifts to the role that artificial intelligence (AI) plays in fostering innovation and efficiency among small enterprises. The group discusses how AI tools can be employed strategically, from drafting initial business plans to streamlining data entry, radically transforming workflows, and helping businesses remain competitive. However, they warn against the indiscriminate use of AI without adequate training and safeguards, advocating for responsible and targeted integration.

This conversation also touches on the financial resources available to McKenzie County businesses. Cyrena Weeks highlights the advantages of regional loan funds and the importance of leveraging local financing programs to bridge funding gaps. The role of the Bank of North Dakota and local banks as critical partners in economic development is emphasized, providing unique financial solutions that support business growth tailored specifically to the region’s needs.

The main takeaway from this episode is the resilient and supportive business environment in McKenzie County. By leveraging local expertise, engaging with supportive regional entities, and responsibly utilizing modern technology, entrepreneurs can capitalize on plenty of resources and opportunities available. Whether you’re an aspiring business owner or an established entrepreneur looking to expand, McKenzie County offers a unique platform for growth and success, underpinned by a robust network of support and innovation.

‘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.

In the latest episode of the Living in McKenzie County Podcast, host Vawnita Best invites listeners to explore the vibrant community activities and projects happening as spring arrives and summer approaches. Joining her in the conversation are Tony Carmichael, Jake Walters, and Jesse Wellen, who each bring unique perspectives on the developments and events taking place in McKenzie County.

Tony Carmichael, Fox Hills Golf Course Manager, delves into the activities that signify the start of the golf season. As preparations ramp up with inventory and program registrations, Tony emphasizes the importance of community support and involvement in the programs offered at the golf course. He explains the efforts to engage younger generations through youth and junior golf programs.

Jake Walters, City Planner for Watford City, discusses the recent and ongoing developments in city infrastructure. He provides insights into the monument sign project, an initiative that aims to add welcome signage around town. This project reflects the community’s commitment to providing visitors and residents with a welcoming experience. In addition, the implementation of new signage policies ensures a cohesive aesthetic while prioritizing safety and accessibility within public spaces.

Watford City Police Chief Jesse Wellen shares his department’s involvement in maintaining a vibrant and safe community atmosphere. With the arrival of spring, pedestrian activity increases, and several community events take place. Chief Wellen highlights efforts like “Pick up the Patch,” a community clean-up initiative that will take place May 4-8, and an upcoming Chiefs of Police conference in Watford City.

This episode also touches on broader community interactions, as the panel discusses ways to encourage safe practices amid the various events planned for the warmer months. Whether it’s golfing, attending local events, or participating in clean-up efforts, there’s an emphasis on community involvement and making mindful choices to ensure that everyone enjoys the best of what McKenzie County has to offer.

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.

In McKenzie County, the importance of infrastructure development to support economic sustainability and community growth cannot be overstated. As discussed in a recent episode of the Living in McKenzie County podcast with host Vawnita Best; City Engineer, Justin Smith, and McKenzie County Engineering Director, Grace Demars. explain the collaborative efforts between the county and city that are crucial for both maintaining and upgrading infrastructure. This includes everything from roads to water systems, ensuring the area can efficiently navigate through current demands and prepare for future growth.

The discussion highlighted the importance of long-term planning, especially when dealing with both legacy and new infrastructure. McKenzie County has experienced rapid growth, leading to an ongoing challenge of balancing infrastructure maintenance with necessary expansion. Legacy infrastructure, some of which dates back to the 1930s and 1940s, demands careful tend to ensure its longevity, while new constructions aim to accommodate an increasing population and encourage further development. Both Smith and Demars emphasized the need for initial planning phases that can often span multiple years to allow for the seamless integration of projects.

Addressing the specific needs of each infrastructure type, Grace Demars shared insights into how her department effectively prioritizes projects through a detailed capital improvement plan. This approach ensures that the county’s transportation network remains robust and capable of supporting both residential life and industrial activity. Similarly, Justin Smith elaborated on the city’s strategic plans to replace aging water mains and improve roads, echoing the sentiment that careful planning and prioritization are key to efficiently addressing Watford City’s infrastructure requirements.

The conversation concluded with reflections on the transformative impact that robust infrastructure can have on a community. Both the city and county are committed to not only addressing immediate infrastructure needs, but also planning for the future. Their work mitigates disruption during construction and ensures enhanced quality of life for McKenzie County residents in the long term. This combined effort between regional planners, engineers, and the community is a testament to the power of strategic foresight and collaboration, paving the way for a thriving and sustainable future for McKenzie County.

‘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.

In this episode of the “Living in McKenzie County Podcast,” host Vawnita Best chats with guests Marco Pelton, Beau Wisness, and Brad Foss in a discussion about the Watford City High School Hall of Fame in the second part of a two episode series. They recognize the athletes, coaches, and community members who have shaped the rich sports history of Watford City.

The group reveals the Watford City High School Hall of Fame Class of 2026 and explains the public nomination and committee voting process guided by bylaws, as well as challenges in evaluating earlier eras with limited records. The 2026 inductees include two teams, two coaches, and individual inductees. The 2026 class will be honored later this year during Homecoming Week on October 9.

If you have someone that you think is deserving of being placed into the Watford City High School Hall of Fame, you can fill out the nomination form online. To explore the previously inducted members, you can visit the  interactive screen at the Rough Rider Center or visit the digital Hall of Fame.

‘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.

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.