Background
In 2024, the National Science Foundation recognized North Dakota’s potential to lead the future of agricultural innovation by selecting the Ag Tech Engine in North Dakota as one of nine inaugural Engine awardees. This transformative investment—up to $160 million over 10 years—aims to accelerate the adoption of agricultural technologies while strengthening rural economies and expanding workforce opportunities.
To better understand agriculture technology (ag tech) workforce needs in North Dakota, the AgTech Engine Workforce Team 1 facilitated eight Community Workforce Partnership (CWP) sessions across North Dakota from December 2024 to March 2025.
These sessions brought together 228 participants from 44 counties, representing educators, industry leaders, community organizations, and workforce development specialists
Figure 1. CWP Participants’ Geographical Location
Key Themes
Themes were drawn from discussions in small-group sessions and validated by on-site facilitators to ensure an accurate reflection of community voices.
Theme 1: Empowering Ag Tech Talent Through Education and Skill Building
North Dakota is well-positioned to become a national leader in preparing tomorrow’s agricultural technology workforce. The CWPs revealed enthusiasm for enhancing and expanding current educational efforts—from school-based agricultural programs to career and technical education (CTE), work-based learning, and hands-on training.
Participants highlighted the importance of staying ahead of the curve in a fast-evolving Ag Tech landscape. They called for agile systems that foster both technical and transferable skills: a blend of mechanical, digital, and agricultural knowledge, grounded in critical thinking, creativity, and adaptability.
North Dakota has a robust foundation of community-driven learning, and by building on this strength, the state can create flexible, responsive pathways that prepare learners of all ages for high-wage, high-demand careers.
Theme 2: Thriving Ag Tech Industries Start with Supportive Communities
The CWPs underscored the deep connection between a strong Ag Tech workforce and resilient rural communities. Participants emphasized that North Dakota communities offer unique strengths—tight-knit networks, strong work ethics, and deep-rooted agricultural legacies—that may be leveraged to attract and retain talent.
To support workforce growth, communities are eager to invest in key assets like housing, broadband, childcare, healthcare, and transportation. Participants noted the need for local leadership development and collaborative recruitment strategies—especially those that engage returning North Dakotans, alumni, and new Americans.
With the right infrastructure and support systems, rural communities can be magnets for innovation, entrepreneurship, and family life.
Theme 3: Reimagining the Agriculture Narrative to Inspire the Next Generation
Participants suggested reshaping public perceptions of agriculture to better reflect the sector’s modernity. Many noted that young people are excited by purpose-driven, tech-enabled careers—but often don’t realize those opportunities exist in agriculture.
To spark early interest, communities could embrace creative outreach efforts, including elementary Ag education, immersive career fairs, field trips to agribusinesses, and youth-driven media and storytelling.
By reframing agriculture as a cutting-edge, high-impact industry—with roles in data science, robotics, sustainability, and entrepreneurship—North Dakota can inspire a new generation of innovators and leaders.
