The 2026 Governor’s Workforce Summit was held on September 23, 2026, in Bismarck, ND, at the NECE Building, Bavendick Room, 1500 Edwards Avenue. The Summit brought together policymakers, employers, educators, and community leaders to strengthen North Dakota’s talent pipeline and economic competitiveness.
A highlight of the event was a fireside chat with Governor Armstrong, who shared his vision for North Dakota’s workforce system, including opportunities to modernize services, strengthen industry partnerships, and support long-term economic growth.
The Summit also marked the public announcement of the Workforce Development Council’s statewide recommendations, an important milestone ahead of the 2027 Legislative Session. The recommendations focused on advancing a unified statewide workforce strategy, aligning systems, improving outcomes for workers and employers, and supporting coordinated action across the workforce ecosystem.
Attendees explored some of the most pressing workforce issues facing North Dakota, including AI’s impact on the workforce and how emerging technologies are shaping future talent and skill needs. Discussions provided insight into national trends and potential implications for state and local partners, while highlighting opportunities to strengthen workforce readiness across education, industry, and workforce systems.
Together, these conversations provided leaders with forward-looking perspectives and actionable insights to support a resilient, innovative, and people-centered workforce system.
“North Dakota’s future depends on our ability to adapt, collaborate and lead. This summit is about more than programs, it’s about people. We’re building a skilled workforce that fuels North Dakota’s economy and ensures every North Dakotan can thrive.” - Gov. Kelly Armstrong