Mandan will invest in its existing and future labor force to ensure local businesses thrive and workers earn competitive wages.  Strained labor force dynamics at the national level due to the aging Baby Boomer generation, national immigration policies, and declining educational attainment levels more severely impact communities and states affected by outmigration. Because economic growth is largely a function of having qualified workers to fill local jobs, the strongest communities are those that invest in education and commit to developing and maintaining a well-trained workforce. Mandan has a strong reputation for providing quality public education opportunities and for the commitment and work ethic of its labor force. Continuing to support and enhance these existing strengths are key parts of this Vision Plan because families, workers, and the businesses they support are the backbone of any community.	- 2010 Action Plan -  Increase participation by elementary students at all elementary schools in supplemental educational services such as after school and summer instruction to improve math and reading competencies. Increase high school student enrollment in dual credit courses. Improve support for Mandan schools by celebrating student academic achievement as a community. Increase the number of business internships for students. Support higher education initiatives that provide access and opportunities for Mandan residents. Explore feasibility of Train ND providing services for Mandan businesses. Provide students with info on local and state career opportunities. Keep abreast of federal funding issues and capitalize on competitive grant opportunities.
K-16 System: Provide the capacity to ensure that existing and future K-12 programming is available to meet the full spectrum of student needs. Maximize the potential of Bismarck State, University of Mary, United Tribes Technical College, Rasmussen College North Dakota, and other workforce development resources.
Funding: Pursue strategies to augment available funding for local education.
Talent Recruitment: Support state and regional efforts to attract and retain young professionals in North Dakota.

Committee Members