Living in McKenzie County

Welcome to Season 1, Episode 9 of the Living in McKenzie County podcast!

In this episode, join our host, Vawnita Best, as she dives into an engaging discussion about Cooperative Work Experience (CWE) from an employer's perspective and workforce development in McKenzie County, North Dakota. Special guests include Nikki Darrington, District Conservationist for the USDA Natural Resources Conservation Service; Chelsea Bulzomi, Practice Manager at Legendary Smiles; and Susan Granrud, Region 1 Director at Job Service North Dakota in Williston. They share insights on CWE programs, job fairs, workforce challenges, and opportunities for employers and students alike. Plus, listen to some humorous and inspiring stories about current and past CWE students and how local businesses are preparing the next generation for successful careers. Don't miss out on this informative and inspiring conversation about building a strong, capable workforce for the future!

Resources from this episode:

CWE Business Application

Job Service North Dakota

Golden Path Solutions

North Dakota CTE Worked Based Learning

In episode eight of Living in McKenzie County, host Daniel Stenberg explores the beauty and challenges of winter in McKenzie County, featuring conversations with trail maker Nick Ybarra, Heritage Park Director and homesteader Bekah Engebretson, and local entrepreneur and personal coach Calli Thorne. Each guest offers unique perspectives on embracing and enjoying the season, from outdoor activities like snow kiting and snowshoeing to homesteading and mental health strategies. The discussion also highlights local events and the importance of community and personal growth during winter. Tune in to discover how to winter well in McKenzie County.

In this episode of the Living in McKenzie County podcast, we dive deep into the Cooperative Work Experience (CWE) Program, a long-standing initiative that offers high school seniors valuable job experience within their career pathways. Hosted by a former CWE participant in McKenzie County Economic Development Director Daniel Stenberg, the discussion features insights from current students Aidan Pelton, Addison George, and Kolin Klang, alongside CWE Coordinator Jill Leach. They share their personal experiences, future aspirations, and the program's benefits for both students and local businesses. Learn how this program prepares students for their future careers, enhances their resumes, and builds essential professional skills.

Join us for an engaging discussion in Season 1, Episode 6 of 'Living in McKenzie County,' as we delve into the 69th North Dakota Legislative Session and explore key topics with our esteemed guests - Senator Dale Patten & Representatives Jeremy Olson and Roger Maki. Dive into discussions about committee assignments, property tax, and the future of energy and infrastructure in North Dakota.

Discover insights on how legislative processes work, the importance of diverse industries, and the challenges of rapid community growth. Tune in to learn about the critical issues facing McKenzie County and the elected represenatives legislative priorities for the upcoming session.

'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.

In this episode of 'Living in McKenzie County'' guest host Jessie Veeder Scofield, Director of The Long X Arts Foundation, is joined by Chris Kubal, Executive Director of The McKenzie County Ag Expo, and Joshua Nollmeyer, Events & Recreation Director for The Rough Rider Center and Watford City Parks and Rec, to discuss events and community vibrancy.

They discuss the transformation of the community, the importance of collaboration, and the impact of various programs and facilities like the Ag Expo, Rough Rider Center, and the growing arts scene. They also share personal stories and insights on community building, highlighting how these efforts have created a thriving, welcoming environment for families. Tune in to learn about the behind-the-scenes of organizing events, the challenges and successes, and the vision for a connected, culturally rich small town.

'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.

For more information and to view our relocation guide, visit www.livinginmckenziecounty.com.

For a comprehensive list of current and upcoming events, visit www.watfordcityevents.com.

Long X Arts Foundation: https://longxarts.com

Rough Rider Center: https://www.roughridercenter.com

McKenzie County Ag Expo: https://www.mcagexpo.com

Join us for episode four of 'Living in McKenzie County' where we explore the impactful role of community giving and nonprofits in Western North Dakota.

Host Daniel Stenberg welcomes John Heinen from the North Dakota Community Foundation, and Angie Hartel, a multifaceted community advocate, to discuss the profound ways people can contribute their time, talent, and treasure.

From improving local infrastructure to providing essential services, our guests delve into the significance of nonprofit work, charitable giving, and community involvement. John sheds light on the work of the North Dakota Community Foundation and shares insights from his extensive career in the nonprofit sector, while Angie highlights initiatives like the McKenzie County Nonprofit Network and 'Feed My Starving Children.'

Tune in to discover stories of local impact, learn about volunteer opportunities, and find out how you can make a difference in McKenzie County.

'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. Visit https://www.livinginmckenziecounty.com to view our community magazine and find past episodes.

Visit the links below to learn more and connect with resources mentioned in this episode:

McKenzie County Community Foundation

https://www.ndcf.net/mckenziecounty

North Dakota Community Foundation

https://www.ndcf.net

McKenzie County Clubs & Organizations

https://econdev.mckenziecounty.net/wp-content/uploads/Clubs-Organizations.pdf

McKenzie County Non-Profit Network Facebook

https://www.facebook.com/profile.php?id=61566614201643

Join host Vawnita Best and a panel of local leaders including McKenzie County Auditor Erica Johnsrud, Watford City Mayor Phil Riely, and Chairman of The McKenzie County Commission Howdy Lawlar, for a deep dive into the workings of public governance and community projects in Watford City and McKenzie County.

This episode covers a variety of topics such as the budgeting process, the impact of gross production tax, the importance of transparency in elections, and pivotal community projects like the Bakken Area Skills Center, Rough Rider Center, and the McKenzie County Ag Expo. Discover how this community thrives through collaboration, innovative solutions, and unwavering commitment to improvement.

'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.

In this episode of 'Living in McKenzie County,' we delve into the evolution of McKenzie Health. We're joined by McKenzie Health CEO Pete Edis, Dr. Gary Ramage, MD, and Connie Wold Welness Center Director Trica Sundeen, as they discuss the current state, historical growth, and future vision of McKenzie Health. They also share personal stories and reflect on community culture, the importance of healthcare in rural areas, teamwork, and community support.

Notable points include the development of integrated services, a robust wellness center, a new healthcare complex, and future plans for expanding their medical offerings.

Tune in to learn how McKenzie Health provides quality care, fosters a supportive work environment, and remains a vital pillar in McKenzie County.

Welcome to the inaugural episode of "Living in McKenzie County"!

Hosts Vawnita Best, from Watford City's Community and Business Development Department, and Daniel Stenberg, McKenzie County Economic Development Director, are joined by Dr. Wayne Heckaman, Director of the Bakken Area Skills Center, and Mr. Jim Green, Principal of Watford City High School, to explore the evolution and future of education in the area.

Topics include the rapid growth of the school district, the importance of Career and Technical Education (CTE), dual credit opportunities, and the Bakken Area Skills Center's programs.

Learn about the various pathways available to students, the importance of local business partnerships, and the innovative efforts to align education with workforce needs. Discover how McKenzie County is transforming education to build a vibrant, skilled community ready for the challenges of tomorrow. Tune in for insights, personal anecdotes, and a vision for the future!

Welcome to the teaser episode for a new original content series, "Living in McKenzie County"!

Hosted by City of Watford City Community and Business Development Director Vawnita Best, and McKenzie County Economic Development Director Daniel Stenberg, join us twice a month as we interview the people that drive our culture and make McKenzie County one of the most dynamic and vibrant communities in North Dakota.

Mark your calendars for our first full premier episode, debuting Tuesday, November 5th. Full episodes can also be viewed on YouTube.

Follow us on social media:

https://www.facebook.com/watfordcitynorthdakota/

https://www.instagram.com/watfordcitynd/?hl=en

https://www.youtube.com/c/WatfordCity

Living in McKenzie County comes to you from The Studio at Long X, produced by The City of Watford City.