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 the economy. Additional information on these projections is available here.

According to the report, Region 1, where McKenzie County is located, had an estimated 41,637 employees in 2023 with an average wage of $87,496. By 2033, Region 1’s employment is projected to grow to 47,193, marking a 13.34% increase. This percentage increase is the highest among all regions in North Dakota, highlighting Region 1 as a leader in job growth and economic expansion.

First International Bank & Trust (FIBT), an independent community bank with a 115-year history, announced a significant leadership transition. Beginning January 1, 2025, S. Peter Stenehjem will succeed his father, Stephen L. Stenehjem, as CEO, marking the fourth generation of family leadership. Stephen, who has led FIBT as CEO for 34 years, will continue as Chairman of the Board, focusing on strategic guidance.

Reflecting on the transition, Stephen emphasized the rarity of a family-owned business thriving for over a century and expressed confidence in Peter’s ability to uphold the bank’s legacy of integrity and community focus. Peter, currently the bank’s president, has contributed to its growth and success through various roles, earning respect from colleagues and customers alike. He expressed his commitment to maintaining the bank’s tradition of excellence while building on its strong foundation.

Under Stephen’s leadership, FIBT has expanded significantly, growing its assets from $49 million to over $5 billion and establishing branches across North Dakota, South Dakota, Minnesota, and Arizona. As incoming CEO, Peter will work alongside his siblings to ensure the bank’s continued success and uphold its mission to serve communities with innovation, care, and philanthropy.

Click here to view a video of the Stenehjem family’s remarks. Click here to read the Business Wire story of this transition.

Graphic taken from First International Bank & Trust (FIBT) website

McKenzie Health welcomes Dr. Chad Pedersen, a skilled medical oncologist and Sidney, MT native, to enhance cancer care in Western North Dakota and Eastern Montana. With over a decade of expertise in oncology, hematology and internal medicine, and as President of the Montana State Oncology Society, Dr. Pedersen is committed to providing high-quality, accessible care to rural communities.

Motivated by personal experience, Dr. Pedersen aims to create a comprehensive cancer care program that supports patients and families close to home. His medical training includes triple board certification and ongoing studies in healthcare management.

Dr. Pedersen will see patients at McKenzie Health’s Main Street Clinic in Watford City (525 N Main St), where he is accepting new patients and referrals. For appointments, call 701-842-6470.

Watford City is taking bold steps to address its housing shortage. The city has seen tremendous growth since the 2010 oil boom, but high home prices and limited inventory have made it challenging for many residents, particularly essential workers, to settle and thrive.

To bridge the gap, Watford City has introduced the Pathway to Purchase pilot program, which invests $3.6 million to build nine single-family homes. Participants can rent these homes with a portion of their payments applied toward a down payment, enabling eventual ownership. If successful, the city plans to expand the initiative to build up to 30 homes annually.

The city is also investing in long-term solutions by training the next generation of construction workers at the Bakken Area Skills Center, creating a pipeline for future housing development. These efforts, alongside innovative approaches like exploring modular and 3-D printed housing, reflect Watford City’s proactive approach to creating affordable and sustainable housing options for its growing community.

Read more here on what Watford City is doing to tackle housing challenges.

“Living in McKenzie County” is a multi-platform content series co-hosted by McKenzie County Economic Development Director Daniel Stenberg, and City of Watford City Community and Business Development Director Vawnita Best. It is produced and directed by Brock White, City of Watford City Marketing and Communications Coordinator. 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. Click here to watch the first episode, titled “Growing Career Ready Students in McKenzie County” (Season 1, Episode 1) which provides an insightful look into the local education and workforce development initiatives aimed at fostering career-ready students for a 21st-century economy. Click here to watch the second episode, titled “The Evolution of McKenzie Health” where listeners will engage in a discussion on the past, present and future of healthcare in McKenzie County.

You can find all episodes and more information on the Living in McKenzie County podcast on the McKenzie County Economic Development website.