The students in our colleges today aren’t just earning degrees—they’re shaping the future of our workforce. The big question is: Are we doing enough to keep them here?  

At The Chamber’s recent Pulse of Higher Enrollment event, local education and business leaders tackled this challenge head-on, discussing how to better align higher education with workforce needs. The message was loud and clear: students want more than just a diploma—they’re looking for hands-on experience, mentorship, and direct pathways into meaningful careers.  

The good news? Our region’s colleges and universities are stepping up in a big way. Here’s how they’re taking bold action to prepare students for real-world success: 

Concordia College 

• The Concordia Promise: A game-changing tuition program making college more accessible for families earning under $90,000. 

• 22 new academic and co-curricular offerings designed to give students a competitive edge. 

M State (Minnesota State Community and Technical College) 

• Strengthening K-12 partnerships to introduce students to career possibilities earlier. 

• Integrating cutting-edge technology, like a high school CDL truck simulator, to provide hands-on, career-focused learning. 

MSUM (Minnesota State University Moorhead) 

• Expanding academic programs to align with industry demand. 

• Renovating campus spaces to create a more dynamic and engaging student experience. 

• Strengthening business partnerships to connect students directly with employers. 

NDSCS (North Dakota State College of Science) 

• Opening the Career Innovation Center in South Fargo—bridging education and industry with real-world training and employer collaboration. 

NDSU (North Dakota State University) 

• Launching a strategic enrollment growth plan to attract and retain top students. 

• Revamping its brand to better reflect its mission and strengths. 

• Introducing Bison to the Bakken, a summer program connecting students with top employers in the energy sector. 

What This Means for Employers 

Now is the time to engage. These institutions are creating incredible opportunities to connect with skilled, motivated students who are ready to contribute to the workforce. If you’re not already partnering with local colleges and universities to recruit and retain top talent, you’re missing out. 

Ready to be part of the solution? Let’s work together to build a stronger, more vibrant workforce—right here at home.