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.	- 2012 Action Plan -  • Work to secure a portion of funding or to benefit from Hess Corporation grant in support of standards-based education. This effort will be in conjunction with the Regional Education Association and Missouri River Educational Cooperative. • Provide additional incentive and support for dual credit opportunities for Mandan High School students. • Look into potential for student internship opportunities. • Continue to work with the Mandan business community to recognize and provide incentives to students for academic achievement.
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.