North Dakota today hosted a groundbreaking summit focused on attracting and retaining global talent to drive economic growth within the state. The Global Talent Summit, attended by key government officials, industry leaders, and immigration experts, underscored the critical role of foreign workers in bolstering North Dakota's workforce.
Keynote speakers including Lt. Gov. Tammy Miller and Congressman Kelly Armstrong emphasized the state's commitment to creating a welcoming environment for international talent. The event featured in-depth discussions on a range of topics, from visa pathways and recruitment strategies to workforce development and integration.
“North Dakota is open for business, and that includes welcoming individuals from around the world who bring unique skills and perspectives,” said Commerce Workforce Development Director Katie Ralston Howe. “This summit marks a significant step forward in our efforts to tap into the global talent pool.”
A highlight of the event was the participation of Krista Tacey, Regional Representative for the CIS Ombudsman, Department of Homeland Security, who provided valuable insights into visa processing and application procedures. Additionally, Bill Carlson, Senior Technical Advisor, USAID Contractor, and Betsy Fisher, U.S. Director, Talent Beyond Boundaries, offered expert guidance on workforce development and recruitment strategies.
The summit concluded with a panel discussion featuring local employers who shared their experiences in hiring and retaining foreign workers. Attendees left the event equipped with actionable strategies to attract and integrate global talent into their organizations.
To learn more about the Office of Legal Immigration and North Dakota’s workforce efforts, go to https://www.commerce.nd.gov/workforce.