By Scout Nelson
North Dakota State University (NDSU) has launched the Bison to Bakken program, designed to give business, engineering, and agriculture students a unique learning experience focused on the energy sector in western North Dakota.
Kathryn Birkeland, Dean of the College of Business, highlighted the program’s goal: to connect students with opportunities in the state’s energy industry, which has seen tremendous growth in the last 15 years.
The Bison to Bakken program includes on-campus meetings and a 12-day travel experience. During the trip, students will visit regions contributing to North Dakota's economic expansion, focusing on the oil, gas, and coal industries.
The program aims to strengthen the bond between NDSU, energy companies, and the state’s economic hubs, aligning with the university’s commitment to workforce development.
Pre-trip coursework will cover topics related to each student's field of study. Business students will explore supply chain management and professional selling, while engineering students may study automation and environmental engineering.
Agriculture students will focus on subjects such as soil reclamation and commodity trading. Students will also engage with industry leaders and learn about North Dakota’s government and economic development strategies.
Supported by NDSU deans from business, engineering, and agriculture, the Bison to Bakken program is funded by the Economic Diversification Research Funds, which aim to boost the state’s economy by fostering innovation and growth through research universities.
This exciting initiative offers NDSU students' valuable insights into career opportunities in North Dakota’s thriving energy industry.
Photo Credit: gettyimages-mysticenergy
Categories: North Dakota, Education, General