Living in Fargo-Moorhead - Metro Profile: 2023-24

living in fargo-moorhead 2023-2024 Metro Profile // Fargo Moorhead West Fargo

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Insurance and Insurance Insurance Trust and Trust and Trus not FDIC Insured. not FDIC notInsured.

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YOU DON’T NEED AN ILLNESS TO NEED A DOCTOR. Regular wellness visits with a primary care physician or provider at Sanford Health can lead to better overall health. Better health care starts with a provider who’s a familiar face. Someone who actually knows you and understands your concerns and your goals.

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A Note from the Chamber’s President and CEO

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elcome to our vibrant Fargo Moorhead West Fargo (FMWF) community! We are delighted that you are exploring this extraordinary area and eagerly await the opportunity to introduce you to all it has to offer. FMWF is a dynamic and innovative region with abundant opportunities and possibilities for our professionals, students, families and businesses.

Our community’s diversity of industry and entrepreneurial spirit truly sets us apart from other markets nationwide. From cutting-edge tech companies to global manufacturers and leading healthcare facilities to innovative small businesses, it’s no surprise that FMWF is ranked as one of the country’s most recession-proof metros.

Additionally, we take great pride in our thriving educational environment.

The metro area hosts well over 25,000 higher education students, enriching the workforce ecosystem of FMWF with their energy and potential. Our K-12 school districts are experiencing continued growth, catering to tens of thousands of students through innovative and impactful approaches to education and career exploration.

Our strong business climate and educational landscape are just the beginning.

FMWF boasts diverse and vibrant cultures, entertainment, experiences, neighborhoods and a sense of collaboration that exists here. Whether you are seeking a fresh start in life, new career opportunities, educational pursuits, or a place to call home and raise a family, our community has it all.

Get ready to dive in and experience everything our region has to offer. We’re thrilled to have you here and look forward to crossing paths as you explore the wonders of FMWF!

Experience this magazine online and further explore our community

Shannon Full

President & CEO Fargo Moorhead West Fargo Chamber of Commerce

@FMWFShannon

fmwfchamber.com

WELCOME TO THE FARGO MOORHEAD COMMUNITY

Follow Shannon on Twitter!

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Table of Contents

Life with Four Seasons Events.

Entertainment.

Experiences.

Welcoming All Communities and Cultures

Career and Business Vitality

A New Era of Education

Neighborhoods and Quality of Life ADVERTISER INDEX

LIVING IN FARGO-MOORHEAD

ii Dacotah Bank 1 Sanford Health 2 Forum Communications 5 Essentia 18 Eide Bailly 19 Marvin 24 Hector International Airport

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26 Scheels Arena 29 Medica 49 Magnum Companies 49 Moore Engineering 60 Houston Engineering 60 Shooting Star Casino

10 20 30 38 50 62 66 Park Co. Realtors 69 Park Christian 69 Rough Cut Social 69 Sign Pro 73 Midco

Thank you to the above businesses for investing in the Metro Profile magazine and enabling its growth and impact as a community resource.

Find The Chamber online @fmwfchamber

Metro Profile 2023-2024

LIFE WITH FOUR SEASONS

12 . . . Raising a family in the fun and familiar Fargo 14 . . . Fostering a community – even in the cold 15 . . . A country lifestyle with city amenities 16 . . . Activities for every day of the week 17 . . . Come make memories EVENTS. ENTERTAINMENT. EXPERIENCES.

22 . . . A community that’s too fun to leave 24 . . . Get your wiggles out 25 . . . The best date nights 27 . . . Enjoying the area’s entertainment 28 . . . A vibrant lifestyle 29 . . . Find your scene in FMWF WELCOMING ALL COMMUNITIES AND CULTURES

32 . . . Improving lives. It’s what we do.

34 . . . Learning, growing, thriving 35 . . . Opportunities for all interests, ages and backgrounds 36 . . . Future-focused 37 . . . Life, learning and faith CAREER AND BUSINESS VITALITY

40 . . . An amazing place for entrepreneurs 42 . . . Live your own legacy 42 . . . Opportunities to advance 43 . . . Home to countless industries 44 . . . The Ignite Initiative 48 . . . Thrive as a professional 49 . . . Nourishing the world while building a career A NEW ERA OF EDUCATION

52 . . . Discovering passions and exploring careers 54 . . . Embracing the future 56 . . . Ignite FMWF Champions 58 . . . Empower students’ futures 59 . . . Showing students the opportunities that await 60 . . . Start your career 61 . . . Creating experiences & collaborations NEIGHBORHOODS AND QUALITY OF LIFE

64 . . . Hit the ground running in FMWF 65 . . . Raise a family and create a life 66 . . . Vibrant downtown living 67 . . . Get away from the hustle and bustle 68 . . . Where neighbors are friends & kids can thrive 69 . . . Find your new home

Together we can live healthier.

C ARE LIK E NOWHERE EL S E In this place, we face challenges head on, believing that with community and commitment, we can build something better. Live healthier. Take care of each other.

With top medical providers and personalized care, Essentia Health helps you realize your best health where you live.

Visit EssentiaHealth.org to schedule an appointment or find a walk-in clinic near you.

Join our team: EssentiaCareers.org

Welcome to the fargo-moorhead community

We are thrilled to offer you this guide to all things FMWF! We have opportunities and experiences for visitors and residents alike.

Take a look and you’re sure to find something that interests you!

FMWF​

The FMWF metro area and surrounding cities include: • Argusville • Casselton • Dilworth • Fargo • Glyndon • Harwood • Horace

• Kindred • Mapleton • Moorhead • Oxbow • West Fargo • and others

MONTH

AVERAGE HIGH

AVERAGE LOW ​

January

18˚ F -8˚ C

0F -18˚ C

April

with a projected growth of 35% by 2045

56˚ F 13˚ C

33˚ F 1˚ C ​

July

83˚ F 28˚ C

60˚ F 15˚ C ​

Languages

October

56˚ F 13˚ C

35˚ F 2˚ C ​

languages spoken in FMWF

Not sure what we mean when we say it’s possible to enjoy the weather year-round? Hear from

Population

LIVING IN FARGO-MOORHEAD

254,925

6

50+

median age

32.5

Metro Profile 2023-2024

Climate​

We get the breeze, the sun, the snow and the rain – whichever season you prefer, FMWF has them all!​

the locals on

pages 10-17.

Travel​

Hector International Airport provides nonstop service via numerous airlines to Chicago, Dallas, Denver, Las Vegas, Los Angeles, Minneapolis/ St. Paul, Pheonix-Mesa, Phoenix-Sky Harbor and St. Pete Clearwater.

The Fargo Jet Center is an internationally recognized leader in aviation services, catering to aircraft owners and business aviation users.

Uber and Lyft both operate in our metro, and our friendly drivers are ready to accommodate your travel needs at any hour.

MATBUS public transportation serves the entire metro area.

Don’t forget about trains! From the Amtrak station in Fargo, you can travel to any corner of the United States.

Education​

​ he FMWF higher education system is a robust educational network that T consists of several esteemed institutions at the Division I, II and III levels, as well as other community and technical colleges, providing a diverse range of academic programs and opportunities for students in the region.​ The K-12 landscape features dozens of private and public options across more than 10 school districts in our two-county area (Cass and Clay Counties).

Career & work​

Average time to work: ​18.5 minutes U.S. average is 26.9 minutes

Unemployment rate: 2.4% U.S. rate is 3.9%

Industry diversity: top 19% Compared to all metros across the nation. A region with high diversity can signal economic stability and can withstand economic pressures.

Multi-billion-dollar businesses headquartered in FMWF WELCOME TO THE FARGO MOORHEAD COMMUNITY

Aldevron​ | American Crystal Sugar | Appareo​ | Bell Bank Blue Cross Blue Shield | Bobcat Company | Border States​ John Deere​ | Microsoft | RDO Equipment Co.​ | Titan Machinery

Learn more about the business landscape and major employers on page 39

Cost of living and community stats​ Average household earnings: $72,188 Cost of living index: 101.5​

Home values and rent cost​

Median Home Value: $235,600​ Median Gross Rent: $869

Statistics and data provided by the latest U.S. Census reports and the Greater Fargo Moorhead Economic Development Corporation. fmwfchamber.com

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The individuals, families, businesses, careers and experiences that exist in the FMWF area are second to none. The following pages will give you an idea what it’s like to call this place home. Get ready to experience the: Four seasons Entertainment and events Welcoming nature of our community Professional landscape Outstanding education opportunities Housing and living

PG 25

LIVING IN FARGO-MOORHEAD

PG 36

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PG 17

Metro Profile 2023-2024

PG 27

PG 40

PG 66

PG 12 WELCOME TO THE FARGO MOORHEAD COMMUNITY

PG 15

fmwfchamber.com

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LIVING IN FARGO-MOORHEAD

Life with four seasons

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Metro Profile 2023-2024

Enjoying the colder months​

Experience the beauty of frosted trees and quiet snowfall, as well as the magic of community events and neighborhood kindness, especially when you need help shoveling your driveway.

Beautiful spring

Springs brings melting snow, blooming flowers, warm sunshine and a few rainy days. Residents feel joy and warmth as winter fades away and spring rejuvenates our community.

Summer Lovin’​

Our summers are hot, and residents know how to make the most of this precious time of year!

Outdoor concerts, a walk in the park or even a short 60-minute drive to Detroit Lakes for some time in the water are a few of the fun things we like to do up here in the FM.

You’ll fall for our autumns​

LIFE WITH FOUR SEASONS

Fall is a wonderful time of year with great opportunities to be outdoors in comfortable temperatures doing the things you love.

fmwfchamber.com

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I teach 7th and 8th grade math at Heritage Middle School in Horace, North Dakota, and coach volleyball at Horace High School. My husband, Dustin, works remotely for Microsoft in Azure Support. He and I both grew up in Valley City, North Dakota, which is about 60 miles west of Fargo.

LIVING IN FARGO-MOORHEAD

Growing up, we would drive to Fargo a lot for shopping, going to the movies and playing sports. We both knew that we wanted to live in a big city with access to everything we needed that would also be a place where we can have fun doing a variety of things.

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When we first got married, we moved to Woodbury, Minnesota.

We enjoyed all the dif ferent activities and places we could go for entertainment in the Twin Cities, but we were missing the friendlier and safer community we had in North Dakota. Life in the cities was busy, and it was stressful to plan travel around traffic.

We are so happy that we moved to the FMWF area three years ago.

Metro Profile 2023-2024

Raising a family in the fun and familiar Fargo

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Claristo Dustin

d • Marrie tings family ou , N.D. s y o • Enjo West Farg • Lives in

We enjoy living in a community where we know our neighbors, often run into familiar faces and still have plenty of options for entertainment year-round.

In the winter months, our family likes to go to Fargo Force hockey games. Dustin’s dad has season tickets, so we try to make it to as many games as we can. The 6 o’clock games on Saturdays are great when you have younger kids because you can stay at the game longer. The Fargo Force games are awesome, as they always have different promotional nights and aim to get the community involved.

We also moved to West Fargo because we want to raise our kids in a safe community with great schools, close proximity to our family and opportunities for our kids to develop in athletics. We have a 2-year-old daughter, River, and whether we take her out to a restaurant, park or store, people in the community are kind and patient with us as she runs around and screams or acts silly.

We love getting to experience all four seasons because each one is beautiful and makes you appreciate the others. For example, our summers are hot and full of sunshine, while fall is perfect for a sweatshirt and jeans with the beautiful falling leaves. Our winter has big, falling snowflakes and our spring makes us excited for summer because everything is turning green and the snow begins to melt. It’s amazing that we get to experience it all!

We also enjoy outdoor activities like skiing and snowboarding In the winter. The closest place to go is Detroit Lakes, which is only an hour drive. They have a beautiful area that is perfect for both beginners and the average skier. They also have a more advanced run that has jumps and obstacles for those looking for a challenge.

In the springtime, we like going on walks. Our neighborhood has

beautiful sidewalks and walking paths that weave around the houses, park and ponds. This last year, the West Fargo Park District put on a huge Easter event at the Rustad Recreation Center that was full of fun with arts and crafts, different games, bouncy houses and, of course, a photo with the Easter Bunny. We also did a giant Easter Egg Hunt at Horace Lutheran Church, where they filled over 2,000 eggs with toys and candy for kids of all ages to find.

Pumpkin Patch, just north of Fargo.

It has countless outdoor games and activities for kids of all ages and a great pumpkin patch. They also have an abundance of photo ops for the perfect family fall picture, a small mini golf course, a playground and a concession stand.

Our dog, Bauer, loves to go on walks on different walking paths and run around at her favorite dog park, Brandt Crossing Dog Park, because of how spacious the area is and how friendly the other dogs and people are.

Dustin plays a lot of golf in the spring and summer, so he buys a golf membership that allows him to play at all the Fargo public courses: Osgood, Rose Creek, Edgewood, El Zagal and Prairiewood. He found an awesome group of friends while golfing on Tuesday nights in a men’s league at Edgewood.

During the summer, we take our daughter to the Red River Valley Zoo to explore the playgrounds, carousel and barn. She gets to learn about different animals while enjoying the outdoors, and it is the perfect length for her to not get bored or tired. The Zoo also puts on different events for all ages that are fun to check out. Dustin and I enjoy going to Brew at the Zoo, where the local breweries put up stands all around the zoo, coupled with food and live music!

LIFE WITH FOUR SEASONS

During the fall, we are always driving or walking around to see the leaves change colors. The drive from our house to Horace is amazing during the fall with all the trees and their red and yellow leaves lining the street. Our absolute favorite place to go in the fall is The Lil Bitz

fmwfchamber.com

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Fostering a community – even in the cold​

e c n e i r e p Ex l Frostiinvtear festival

lw • Annua s and interests mmunit y a ge ll a entire co • For e th s s ro ac • Events

Many know that the winter months are a part of the story when it comes to living in the FMWF area. Events like the Frostival celebration are among the many ways our community comes to life, and people gather to truly enjoy the winter season.

LIVING IN FARGO-MOORHEAD

Frostival is organized by a committee of local event planners, along with other organizations like the Fargo Moorhead Convention & Visitors Bureau (CVB), who pull everything together for this fun festival. The idea of Frostival was born out of the need to positively change perceptions of living in an area with a snowy winter season.

We are here to have fun without the weather getting in the way!

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Frostival is meant for EVERYONE. Events range from competitive kickball tournaments out in the snow to story hour at the public library - so don’t worry, because there is something for all ages, levels and interests.

Metro Profile 2023-2024

Most popular Frostival events: • MBA Snow Sculpture competition • Frozen Fortress event • Ice Bowl Disc Golf Tournament • Fargo Youth Pond Hockey Tournament • FrosTAKular • Cardboard Sled Races • Coffee & Cocoa Crawl.

• Horseshoe Tournament • Sauna Week • West Fargo Chili Cook Off • and more.

By partnering with a variety of different types of businesses and event organizers, Frostival garners attention from the entire region and is becoming an important part of our culture in FMWF. 2023 marked the 8th year of the FMWF Frostival, with over 50 events hosted across the entire metro. Frostival helps tell the story of what it really means to live in FMWF – we have some pretty cold temperatures, but our people have the warmest hearts.

H

A country lifestyle with city amenities

MMeeattthys​

Paulto Angie

d • Marrie outdoors e s e • Lov th indred, N.D. K in s e • Liv

Having four seasons is a blessing. There is always something to look forward to that you can’t do all year long. Winter months can get long, but the long summer days and cool pleasant falls are worth the wait.

Having four seasons provides many opportunities for several different hobbies, including hunting, fishing, camping, water skiing, snow skiing, snowshoeing, ice fishing, sports and much more.

hobbies. Fall is hunting season and the start of wrestling season for our son Cody and volleyball season for our daughter Josie. This fall will be a little different, with our oldest child, Olivia, heading off to college at University of North Dakota, which is a little over an hour and a half drive from home.

Spring is an excellent time of the year for turkey and bear hunting, fishing, and spring sports like softball, baseball and youth trap.

LIFE WITH FOUR SEASONS

Our favorite things to do in the summer include spending time at the lake, fishing, camping and sitting around a campfire. Angie’s parents have a lake place in Minnesota, so you can see how our favorite things to do in the summer include being at the lake, swimming, water skiing, surfing, fishing, camping and sitting around the campfire.

Fall is my family’s favorite time of the year because it is filled with so many of our family’s favorite

fmwfchamber.com

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Activities for every day of the week​

Tabit old

rs • 26 yea lete om & ath . m g • Do .D Fargo, N • Lives in

I have been living in the FMWF area for most of my life. I grew up in West Fargo and stayed here until I graduated high school and started my college experience at Valley City State University, just a short 60-minute drive away. Once I graduated with my bachelor’s degree in wildlife biology, I decided to see what employment options there were back home.

Surely enough, I found a job I was interested in and made the move back to Fargo.

LIVING IN FARGO-MOORHEAD

I have stayed in the FMWF area because of the people, the affordability and cost of living and the great job I have at Aldevron, a biotechnology company. Another reason I have stayed is because I think the people here are truly some of the nicest people I have ever met.

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In the spring, I try to get out to some of the parks, such as Forest River or Armour Park, where I go hiking or birding. Spring is special to people living in our area because we are getting out of the cold months and finally able to get back outside and enjoy the fresh air.

Metro Profile 2023-2024

et ler​ MhaeM il Year-round, I stay involved in community sports. I play volleyball throughout the year, and I play on a handful of different softball teams in the summer. The Fargo and West Fargo Park Districts do a great job organizing leagues and tournaments throughout the year.

When I’m not playing sports, you can find me working out at Total Balance fitness center in Moorhead or SolidCore Fargo. I also like to take both of my dogs for runs on the many walking paths near my apartment.

I really like to take advantage of the warm weather and be outside as much as possible. Besides sports, I also like to socialize by stopping at Pubwest in West Fargo or Junkyard Brewing in Moorhead for a few beers with friends on the patio. I’m also a fan of attending the many outdoor concerts in the area, whether they are at Fargo Brewing Company, the Red River Valley Fair or Ribfest.

Mon. Tues.

Wed. Thurs.

Fri. Sat. Sun.

Come Make Memories

F

MNeoergtard​

Tami at Vogel Law Firm ey • At torn ter fly bu t l ia • Soc .D. Fargo, N in s e • Liv

FMWF has been my home for 24 years. I moved to Moorhead from Minneapolis in 1999 and later built a home in Fargo in 2012. I have experienced how living in FMWF provides a great opportunity to have a balanced life with unmatched career opportunities, as well as the ability to prioritize family time, recharge and enjoy life.

I love going to concerts, including the great outdoor concerts at

mean opportunities to socialize. I love spending time with friends and family in lake country, especially around the 4th of July, when many lakes host great celebrations and fireworks.

I enjoy hosting friends and family at my lake house in Minnesota regularly.

I try to take advantage of the great summer weather by engaging in outdoor activities as much as possible, especially if they

I bi ke i n ou r gorgeous Minnesota lake country most summer weekends, sometimes joining the group rides that leave from the Detroit Lakes beach area most Saturdays. During the summer months, I regularly join a welcoming group on Saturday mornings who run around the lake in Detroit Lakes or head out for a long bike ride. fmwfchamber.com

LIFE WITH FOUR SEASONS

I’m a social person and like to join and/or create groups of people to engage in hobbies. My running group gets together for early morning runs and participates in larger weekly runs from local breweries and coffee shops around town every Tuesday and Thursday evening and Saturday mornings.

There are a few very welcoming running groups who post weekly runs early in the morning from coffee shops or after work from local craft breweries, then meet for coffee or beer after the run.

I participate in a mostly social knitting group, but there are more serious knitting groups in town.

The Lights at Sheyenne, Bluestem A mphitheater and the Red River Valley Fair each summer. I appreciate both the ar ts and athletics, as I have season tickets to NDSU football and Fargo Force games, as well as season tickets to the traveling Broadway productions that are held at the FargoDome a few times per year. Some of my friends get together for Texas Hold’em gatherings in the winter, often after snowmobiling, ice fishing or cross-country skiing.

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don’t just dream it: do it.

don’t just dream it: do it.

Eide Bailly has been serving the FMWF community for over 100 years.

We’re a business advisory and accounting firm, helping our clients embrace opportunities and bring innovation to an evolving business landscape.

Whether you’re navigating compliance requirements, investing in technology or wondering what’s next, we have the resources to help you make your goals a reality.

701.239.8500 | eidebailly.com

SEE YOURSELF IN FARGO.

Expanding Footprint. Growing Careers.

Marvin is a family-owned and -led company driven by one purpose: to imagine and create better ways of living. Together, the nearly 7,000 employees across the United States design, engineer, and build premium doors, windows, and skylights.

Here in Fargo, Marvin’s success and presence has continued to grow to 10 locations in the area. Opportunities range from manufacturing and production to research and development, engineering and logistics and distribution. In 2022, the United Way of Cass Clay recognized Marvin as the Most Engaged Workplace in the region, in addition to one of the Top 50 Most Generous Workplaces.

See Yourself at Marvin: Earn $20-$24/hour in a production role

Health benefits start first day

Profit sharing and 401(k) with company match

On-the-job training

$300 reimbursement towards your health + happiness

You can also check out what it’s like to work at Marvin, and build a career in manufacturing Scan code to watch the video

Apply today at marvin.com/fargo

LIVING IN FARGO-MOORHEAD

Events.

Entertainment.

Experiences.

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Metro Profile 2023-2024

Shop ‘til you drop Whether you are spending a day visiting countless boutiques, planning a home improvement project, updating your wardrobe or bringing your garden back to life, FMWF has it all - where the biggest brands and creative local businesses exist together.

• Hundreds of small businesses and locally owned shops • Spend hours at beautiful locations such as West Acres Mall or Scheels • Buy in bulk at Costco, Sam’s Club, Target and Walmart • Keep your hobbies alive at Guitar Center, Barnes & Noble or craft stores

Fun for the whole family Arcades | Art galleries | Axe throwing | Bowling Canoeing and kayaking | Community theatres Disc golfing | Escape rooms | Go Karting | Golfing Ice skating and roller skating Indoor and outdoor swimming | Laser Tag Mini golfing | Movie theatres | Museums Ninja Gyms | Recreational centers Red River Zoo | Rock Climbing Red River Market | Trampoline park Coming soon to FMWF – Indoor water park, Science museum and more!

• Live organically at local markets

headbang, dance, laugh or sing along Experience the biggest bands and artists, laugh with your favorite comedians, discover local music or enjoy the performing arts at countless venues around town.

Bluestem Amphitheater | Civic Center | Essentia Health Plaza at The Lights Fargo Brewing Company | Red River Valley Fairgrounds | FargoDome The Fargo Theatre | Scheels Arena | TAK Music Venue

Wine & dine

• State of the art recreational facilities • Numerous recreational sports leagues • 10+ golf courses in the FMWF area • 250+ local parks to enjoy • 150+ miles of paths and trails for walking, running, biking and more

Statistics and data provided by the latest U.S. Census reports and the Greater Fargo Moorhead Economic Development Corporation. fmwfchamber.com

EVENTS. ENTERTAINMENT. EXPERIENCES.

Come hungry and leave satisfied. The FMWF area has an abundance of experiences for everyone’s food and beverage desires. From the finest dining to the tastiest food trucks, local restaurants that will transport you across the globe with their dishes or breweries that will keep you coming back to try more, there are experiences for everyone and options for any hour of the day.

Enjoy Staying active

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i

I first came to this area to attend Concordia College in Moorhead, with the thought that I would move far away when I was done. After graduation, I landed a job in Fargo and decided to stay for a while. After a few years in the community as a professional instead of a student, I fell in love with the community, people and opportunities, so I stayed here for good!

There is so much opportunity to make an impact on this community and it’s truly an exciting time to be a part of change and growth!

LIVING IN FARGO-MOORHEAD

This communit y does an incredible job of bringing in events, enter tainment and experiences year-round.

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The best part is, if the community doesn’t have something you want, you can easily gather up your friends and make it happen. I can guarantee you’ll find the support to bring it to fruition! The people in the FMWF area are creators, doers and experience-makers!

Some of my most memorable experiences have come from ideas

Metro Profile 2023-2024

A community that’s too fun to leave

MJeohentsrud

Erica ing & Development t Co. n rn • Sr. Lea at RDO Equipme rs t s ea li y ia 7 c 1 r Spe FMWF fo in d e v li s • Ha

that friends have had. Instead of waiting for someone else to do it, they rallied a crew together and made it happen. For example, earlier this year, some friends of mine put on a Faux Art Show. The people in this community want every person and every event to thrive and it shows in how they show up to support.

My favorite thing to do is to find new or fun events that are going on and check them out. Wild Terra has had some unique and cool events that have been a blast. In

the summer, it’s always fun to find a patio for a drink, whether it is at a local brewery or restaurant rooftop.

people who truly care about what they do and the community that they serve.

Fargo Brewing has tasty beers and their employees are some of the most generous people around. You can find some tried and true pallet pleasers, and their event spaces are awesome. One of my favorite places to experience live music is at their outdoor concerts!

As far as food and dining goes, 701 Eatery has a delicious menu with a flair on traditional Norwegian or midwestern vibes!

Hotdish of the moment?! Yes please! Their Swedish meatballs and rosemary fries – YUM – and you HAVE to get the lefse platter! It’s so fun to have their rooftop “Camp Lonetree” space as well (cue the nachos!!) both in the summer with their yard games and in the winter with their cozy igloos!

Drekker Brewing also has a great vibe! Whether you’re hanging out in their taproom or meandering around Brewhalla, we are truly lucky to have this crew thinking up new beers and events to keep our community magical!

Looking for a hidden gem?

Bear Creek Winery is a little slice of heaven on the plains! It’s so amazing to have locally made wine made from the grapes grown right here in the Red River Valley. They have a great vibe that makes you feel like you’ve traveled far away. Plus, the owners are great

Another great option is Luna.

Luna has a rotating menu, and they are always trying new and creative things! Whether you’re stopping in for a cheese plate and bottle of wine (add on the popovers, you won’t regret it!) or for a wine pairing meal, you will always go away satisfied.

EVENTS. ENTERTAINMENT. EXPERIENCES.

fmwfchamber.com

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Get your wiggles out

K

KidCo., like many projects, grew out of necessity. As parents of two wild and crazy kiddos, we knew the community needed an

Mn e&etEmily

Aaro f KidCo. Children’s Museum o • Owners ily fun m • Enjoy fa

We wanted to create a space that is crazy fun without the chaos. The response from the community has been overwhelming.

From grandmas walking behind the counter to hug and thank us to the dozens of 5-star reviews we have received, the community seems very pleased to have a screen-free place to GET THEIR WIGGLES OUT!

imaginationbased place for kids to get their wiggles out. We always disliked when indoor playlands would be over booked and understaffed, so we set out with the goal of making KidCo. something different.

Looking for more activities for you and your kids? Meet the owner of Four Star Ninja Academy on pg 68

LIVING IN FARGO-MOORHEAD

Go farther!

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Ready for your next adventure? Need to get away for some rest and relaxation, or for some fun and play? Get your next great trip off to the right start when you Fly Fargo.

For all information pertaining to Hector Airport, visit fargoairport.com

Metro Profile 2023-2024

Fly FAR

The best date nights

i

MaredePtallay​

Rich to Fargo native, Jelsarience e d • Marrie ady for a new exp y” k re ic s R y a y ret t • Alw DJ, “DJ P e m ti tr • Pa

I have been in the region for over 12 years, and I cannot see myself living anywhere else. There is an understated sense of pride that those who live here share with each other, and this pride is what makes us feel so welcomed and bonded to one another.

I met my wife a few days after she graduated from North Dakota State University (NDSU), here in Fargo, through a mutual friend. Sparks flew early on in our relationship, and though I had originally planned on moving back to Los Angeles,

spending time with Jelsa in Fargo helped me become very rooted and comfortable in the area.

On a Friday or Saturday night, my favorite thing to do is go out to eat, and I love going to Mezzaluna. They create a great environment for a date night with my wife, or if we want something more casual, then we love hanging out in the bar. The food is always incredible, the service is exceptional and it is a perfect start to wherever else my heart wants to go after dinner.

After-dinner activities might include karaoke, sporting events, going to the opera or symphony, or even relaxing in the DreamLoungers at Marcus Theatres to watch a movie.

I would say there are easily

Another can’t-miss event for me is the Christkindlmarkt. This is an annual Holiday extravaganza, hosted by the good people at Folkways. The attention and care they put into making the holidays even more magical is awesome and inspiring. This is usually hosted in November, and they incorporate both outdoor and indoor spaces, so there is plenty to see and do during the event. I love their activations of local performers, their shine to amazing art, demonstrations, interactive kid activities and most importantly, they have tons of Christmas trees to really bring the cheer.

fmwfchamber.com

EVENTS. ENTERTAINMENT. EXPERIENCES.

One of the biggest events I look forward to every summer is the Downtown Fargo Street Fair.

If you have never been, Broadway is blocked off and the streets are full of hundreds of vendors to shop from, with diverse food options from all over the region, plus music and entertainment all day during the three days of the fair.

over 100,000 people that come to the Fair and for good reason! It is amazing to see our community get activated in such an incredible way, and ever since I have moved to town 12 years ago, I have not missed the Fair once.

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Enjoying the Area’s entertainment

i

Me Aeemtundson​

Mik to Kelsy

d • Marrie at tends events nd a s n • Pla

I am the Executive Director of West Fargo Events (WFE). Our WFE team manages daily operations at The Lights Entertainment District, West Fargo Sports Arena, POW/ MIA plaza and provides many more public programming activities to the area like WF Cruise Night, West Fest and Stage West Theatre to name just a few.

At The Lights, I love Pro Bull Riding Week. Converting the plaza to that dirt arena and providing an up-close and intimate experience for the crowd is so different from the norm. Super-athlete 1500lb

animals with a bull rider trying to hang on is a sight to see. It’s always fun to be different that way.

at the top of my list, whether the kids are playing or we are going to watch a game together. When it comes to athletics, our family enjoys watching the Fargo Force or RedHawks. We also enjoy watching live music. I don’t think there’s a better outdoor live music venue in the entire Upper Midwest than The Lights when we host our summer concerts.

We a l s o h ave a r ea l l y special, week-long community celebration every September in West Fargo called West Fest.

It’s an annual gathering with a huge Saturday parade, many class reunions, community picnics, a Cruise Night that Thursday and a community Street Dance to wrap it up. It’s always a busy weekend, but it’s very rewarding when you’re involved.

My favorite thing to do on a Friday night? Easy. Enjoying my kids’ activities. Hockey and baseball are

EVENTS. ENTERTAINMENT. EXPERIENCES.

fmwfchamber.com

27

A vibrant lifestyle​

I

Meet ahl​

ergd st B e n n A usia atre enth and the • Music exper t nd beer • Food a par t y the • Life of

LIVING IN FARGO-MOORHEAD

I am constantly on the lookout for opportunities to attend events and often find myself in awe of the caliber of talent that our young local actors and vocalists bring to theatre productions throughout the year.

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Whether a person is attending a Trollwood event at Bluestem Amphitheater in south Moorhead or an FMCT production at The Lights in West Fargo, you are guaranteed to see a quality performance. In addition, the Fargo Theatre in Downtown Fargo always has local and touring entertainment options.

Downtown Fargo gives off a “big city” feel with food and shopping opportunities galore without the stress of having no place to park or bumper-to-bumper traffic. It is easy to spend an entire day experiencing the joys of local shops and restaurants all within walking distance.

There are countless familyfriendly activities and attractions in the FMWF area. Kingpinz and Suite Shots have been amazing additions to the south Fargo area.

Kingpinz is a massive entertainment Metro Profile 2023-2024

facility with laser tag, escape rooms, Hyperbowling and an impressive arcade. On top of all of that, they have a top-notch restaurant onsite.

Suite Shots is also wonderful in terms of being a place for fun for everyone! They also host excellent local talent in their restaurant and patio area!

There are SO MANY wonderful places to find fun food in this area. These places cover most any cuisine you could imagine,

and each provide a unique dining experience. It is hard to narrow it down! If I had to pick, I would say that the 701 Eateries Prairie Kitchen has the best brunch item with their Smoked Brisket Hash.

Plaza Azteca is a ringer with pretty much anything on their menu, and the patio experience and ahi tuna at Porter Creek hold a special place in my heart.

This community is so incredibly special to me. The FMWF area gives a person the ability to “take a vacation” in one’s own hometown.

Each city within the metro has so much to offer and is beautiful in its own way. This is also a place where the pavement meets gravel and the fields meet the lakes. This truly allows you to experience life to its fullest and find a space for whatever you may need at the time.

Find Your scene in FMWF

I

Meet mo e​

B

s e rnt Eid

2 kids and has in r E to s d • Marrie m the Twin Citie o fr is d e th v o d •M signe y w ho de • The gu e magazin

I live for going out with friends and experiencing what downtown has to offer, going to places like Scoop and Dough, Paradox Comics, Vinyl Giant, the Red River Market and the

A few of my other favorite experiences in FMWF: • Front Street Taproom trivia nights

• Pixeled Brewing’s arcade • Rough Cut Social axe throwing

various bars and breweries.

• The Aquarium & Fargo Brewing’s live music

Date nights with my wife Erin are often at local breweries or bars in Downtown Fargo or Moorhead.

Junkyard Brewing, in particular, serves great craft beer! They also host an annual Rare Beer Picnic, Plant Pop-up, 5k run and benefits/ fundraisers.

M E D I C A H E A LT H P L A N S

You’re not just covered, you’re cared for.

fmwfchamber.com

EVENTS. ENTERTAINMENT. EXPERIENCES.

Call your broker or a Medica Representative 1 (833) 424-4752 or visit Medica.com.

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LIVING IN FARGO-MOORHEAD

Welcoming all communities and cultures

30

Metro Profile 2023-2024

A community of support

1,000+ nonprofits and charities exist in the FMWF area, each serving our people and communities daily as they carry out their impactful missions.

In 2023, Giving Hearts Day raised $26.1 million for our area charities. Founded in 2008, Giving Hearts Day is a 24-hour event for charities in North Dakota and northwest Minnesota. Each year, Giving Hearts Day provides a platform for charities to fund their missions through an ever-increasing community of donors, many of whom get to experience the joy of giving for the first time. The longestrunning giving day in the country, Giving Hearts Day has helped participating charities raise more than $165 million since its founding.

taste of culture Our area is home to many cultures and backgrounds, and we have the restaurants, markets and eateries to match.

• 13+ ethnic food markets and international grocery stores • 17+ Chinese cuisine locations • 16+ Thai, Vietnamese and Japanese cuisine locations • 6+ Indian and Nepali cuisine locations • 5+ Middle Eastern and Mediterranean cuisine locations • 16+ Italian and other European cuisine locations • 20+ Mexican cuisine locations • 7+ African cuisine locations • 8+ ethnic food trucks See details and locations

Did you know?

The Fargo Moorhead West Fargo Chamber Foundation was recently awarded a $9.62 million Economic Development Administration (EDA) Good Jobs Challenge Grant. The Chamber Foundation, in collaboration with other regional organizations, will bolster the region’s economy by developing the skilled workforce needed to support the regional agriculture, manufacturing and technology industries.

Over the next three years, the region can expect over 900 participants to receive training through the program.

Buddhist

Lutheran

Catholic

Mormon

Evangelical

Muslim

Hindu

Native American

Jehovah’s Witness

Non-denominational

Jewish

Orthodox

and more!

Over 50 languages spoken in FMWF Arabic

Nepali

Spanish

Chinese

Russian

Swahili

French

Serbian

Turkish

Kurdish

Somali

Vietnamese

and more!

fmwfchamber.com

WELCOMING ALL COMMUNITIES AND CULTURES

In partnership with local employers, The Chamber Foundation will ensure that training programs meet the unique skill needs of our local employers and the regional economy. With a focus on people of color, immigrants, veterans, military spouses, women in tech and justiceinvolved individuals, the grant will allow The Chamber Foundation and its partners to provide services and reduce barriers to starting and completing training.

Faith Communities

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Improving lives. It’s what we do.​

M

My husband’s job brought us from Wahpeton, N.D. to Fargo 29 years ago. Prior to living in Wahpeton together, we both grew up in small towns of about 2,000 people in North Dakota and Minnesota, so Fargo was a big change for us.

We realized very quickly how fortunate we were to be part of a community that offers so many opportunities. Even though the FMWF area is a large community with all the benefits of a large community, it still maintains a smalltown feel.

LIVING IN FARGO-MOORHEAD

We raised our daughters, Kaitlyn, Kiara and Addison here. The FMWF area truly is a community where everyone cares about and supports our youth. The opportunities for my girls, no matter their age or interests, have been limitless.

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FMWF is incredibly familyf rie n dl y, w i t h t he e nt i re community willing to lend a helping hand. A great example of this is how I have watched the community embrace the folks we support at Creative Care for Reaching Independence (CCRI) and Metro Profile 2023-2024

MnoeneBt ock​

Shan

unit y the comm in r e d a fit le rs • Nonpro to helping othe d te a ic • Ded

our mission. Whenever we ask for help, I know we can count on the community to rally around us to support the people we serve.

I am the executive director of CCRI, a Moorhead-based o r g a ni z at io n d e d ic ate d to enhancing and enriching the lives of people with all types of disabilities.

We do this through innovative living solutions, individualized mental health services and a wide variety of social activities, such as adaptive softball, summer camp and prom.

At CCRI, most of the people we support live below the poverty line. State funding provides for the basics. The things that make life meaningful, that most of us take for granted, such as getting together with friends or experiencing something new, can be a luxury for our clients. To help them live their best lives, we rely on community support to provide the extras that make life colorful.

CCRI’s MISSION

To enhance and enrich the lives and learning of our clients by helping them: • Live more independently • Build life skills • Participate more in the community • Have new experiences • Reach their full potential More than 50% of people receiving disability services in Clay County do so through CCRI. We provide 24/7 support in more than 30 homes we manage and in more than 300 individual and family homes.

adaptive sports and other activities can improve overall health and wellbeing.

In interac ting with our organization and the people we serve, community members get to know that our clients are so much more than the disabilities that have often defined them, they gain a broader understanding of what it means to live with a disability and they get to experience the wonder

uncle was one of our first clients.

When she talks about the difference CCRI made in his life, she mentions that when he went into hospice, our staff volunteered to take shifts staying with him, so he never had to be alone.

CCRI also provides a wide variety of career options and is an employer of choice—having been named several times to the Star Tribune’s list of Minnesota’s Top Workplaces.

In an industr y that averages 40% retention, we have maintained a 60% retention rate—with some team members spending decades on our team.

“That’s CCRI. That’s what they do for the people they care for.”

Through our programming, people can connect with others and experience a sense of community. All activities are modified so everyone, regardless of ability, can participate. In addition to enhancing motor, social and communication skills, access to

and joy that can come from seeing the world through someone else’s eyes.

For the families of the people we serve, knowing we are caring for their loved one brings them incredible peace of mind and gives them the freedom to live their own lives more fully. Sarah Larson ’s

fmwfchamber.com

WELCOMING ALL COMMUNITIES AND CULTURES

Each year, the community rallies together for a dedicated day of giving, to support the important and crucial work of our countless nonprofits. In 2023, $26.1 million was raised through donations. Learn more about the great nonprofits in the FMWF community, and how you can get involved with their services and missions.

33

Learning, growing, thriving

i

eetayna M zz & D

Ma

.D. Fargo, N r ts and culture • Live in ut a o b nate a • Passio

MAZZ

I’m originally from England, and I came to Fargo for an employment opportunity at NDSU. I am now about to start my 18th Year at MSUM and am the Chair of the Bioscience Department. I’ve had great experiences since arriving here.

I first connected with Dayna in August 2001 when I was at Duffy’s Tavern with my mum, sister and brotherin-law who were visiting me from overseas, as well as a new group of friends from my apartment building. One of my friends asked me why I wasn’t dating anyone, and eventually mentioned one of their good friends, Dayna Del Val.

LIVING IN FARGO-MOORHEAD

Later that night I was talking to Dayna via the tavern’s payphone, and we had a nice conversation. Roughly a month later I was returning to Fargo from a conference in France, and I happened to be on one of the last group of airplanes that made it to their intended destinations on the morning of September 11th, 2001. Later that night, on a day when the world was so upside down, Dayna decided to invite me over to meet her and her wonderful child, Quinn. We have been together ever since.

34

As our relationship grew, I did notice fantastic opportunities for activities, club sports, after school activities and outdoor pursuits which were available and welcoming for families.

I am glad to have lived here long enough to see the transformation of the area and to experience the cultural things Fargo has to offer.

Metro Profile 2023-2024

DAYNA

The diversity of our population is growing and evolving all the time, and that’s an excellent thing. Culture is about more than food, but that’s a wonderful place to start meeting, getting to know and starting to understand people who didn’t have the same lived experiences we had. More international restaurants, more leaders of color, more expressions of culture that isn’t easily classified as upper Midwest by way of Scandinavia or Europe is tremendously exciting and a great learning and growing opportunity for us all.

After a long career in arts administration, I hung up my nonprofit hat and entered the entrepreneurial world this spring. I currently offer talks, retreats, courses and coaching around a program I developed called Discover Your Spark. I help people discover WHO they are, not what. Too often, we get hung up on job titles and not what lights us up, what makes us show up as our best selves. I help people find that inner spark, be it large or small, to bring joy and light to their lives by creating a framework to get going on the first step and the one after that.

I always appreciated the arts programming that was available to families here. When my son was growing up I took him to the museums, as well as local, national and international performances. Because of that, he never felt like he didn’t “belong” in the arts. It’s important for kids to know they can participate in the arts because it makes for adults who understand and appreciate their value.

i

opportunities for all interests, ages and backgrounds

Me Beertimhall

Carri ta Community & Technical so sident • Minne State) Pre 5 years (M e g e r2 Coll FMWF fo in d e v li s • Ha

I moved to this region 25 years ago from South Dakota to attend M State and then Concordia College in Moorhead. While attending Concordia, I was required to do an internship in advertising and public relations. I contacted M State about the internship, and they allowed me to do a six-month, unpaid internship in the Marketing department.

Through the course of the internship, I was asked to be an advisor for a student club. I got to know my first group of students, who told me I had made a difference in their lives – as soon as I heard that, I knew I had found my career path.

Jokingly, I keep saying I no

We have a sign in our hallway that sums up why we do what we do. It says, “If you knew my story, you would be proud of me – Signed, Ever y M State student.” Our students are incredible. They are diverse in every aspect of their identities and stories, and it is inspiring and rewarding to help them achieve their hopes and dreams.

I’m excited about the future of M State for many reasons, but mostly because we continue to hire the very best people to do the rewarding work of educating and serving students. They choose to be in education because they believe in our mission. They challenge us as leaders to continue to find ways to remove barriers for students, update policies and procedures that keep people from achieving their dreams and do even more to serve our community and our partners. It is challenging work, but we aren’t willing to give up on our students or the possibilities for our communities.

WELCOMING ALL COMMUNITIES AND CULTURES

I’ve stayed here because of the people and our investment in strong communities. The vision of M State is to be a success story for every student. We achieve that through our mission: to specialize in affordable and exceptional education, service and workforce training. We welcome all students and engage them in shaping their futures and their communities.

longer think M State is the “best kept secret” based on the number of phone calls we are getting from employers looking to hire our graduates or sign up for workforce solutions training. I’ve seen the community embrace the skills we teach, the innovation we bring to the table and the ways we support every aspect of the lives of our students.

echocardiography, a second site for medical laboratory technician and phlebotomy, gas utilit y, powersports and a health-services Broadfield degree.

M State offers more than 70 career and technical program options, ser ves thousands of transfer students, has connections with 45 high schools and provides training to over 500 businesses.

We find a nice balance between tradition and innovation. We start new programs all the time. In fact, this fall, we are adding agribusiness,

fmwfchamber.com

35

FutureFocused

D

Meet Cook

vid Dr. Da ate Cook K & Drs.ident of NDSU Pre 2022 • Dave FMWF in to d e v o •M

“Dave and I both grew up in Ames, Iowa and went to high school together. Dave is one year older than I am, and we actually met at a graduation party two weeks before he graduated from high school.”

- Kate

LIVING IN FARGO-MOORHEAD

We were look i ng for a supportive community that looked to the future. We wanted to be a part of a community and higher education institution that worked together for the betterment of all.

The Chamber and its Concierge Program laid the groundwork for us to know and believe that would be possible at North Dakota State University (NDSU).

36

What drew us to the Fargo area was the friendly, open people.

Ever yone has been gracious, welcoming and supportive ever since we arrived. Fargo Moorhead West Fargo and NDSU communities are made of kind, giving, passionate and dedicated people.

If you’ve never been to Fargo, you’re really missing out. It’s a hidden gem. We have been lucky

Metro Profile 2023-2024

enough to have a few friends and family visit, and we loved showing them around NDSU and the local spots! We should also mention that ‘lakes country’ is quickly becoming a favorite of ours!

NDSU holds a strong feeling of community and passion on their campus, and we look forward to watching the university continue to grow and evolve.

What excited you about joining NDSU, and what is something about the future are you are looking forward to?

“It was exciting to be joining a university and a community with this kind of pride and enthusiasm.

We knew this was the kind of institution we wanted to be part of. We’ve put together a solid plan with NDSU Transform that focuses our strengths to help us fulfill our education, research and service missions. NDSU will soon be offering new academic programs, transitioning to more online degree options, and dedicating additional staff to enhance their first-year experience.” - Dave

Life, Learning and Faith

M

MaeeleCthan

Michtwo children

d, • Marrie led and av e r -t ll mmunit y • We o c r fo n pio • A cham ns tio c e n n co

My family moved to FMWF in May 2022 from Isanti, Minnesota so I could assume a new job at Concordia College as Executive Director for Faith and Learning. My wife and I have moved over 13 times in our nearly 20 years of marriage.

We have lived in many different places, both in the United States and abroad, and there are only a handful of places that have felt like “home.” FMWF is one of them.

FMWF offers a great environment for raising a family and building a life. The area boasts strong schools, a wide range of nonprofit organizations, vibrant faith communities and thriving businesses, among other things.

However, what truly sets the FMWF area apart is the emerging vision of FMWF as a community where people and the institutions that support them flourish. This emerging vision is marked by passionate commitments to shared prosperity, abundant opportunity, entrepreneurial thinking and compassion for those experiencing hard times. We love what the FMWF area is and what it aspires to be.

The people in the FMWF area have big hearts. We aren’t a perfect community, but there is a genuine push to see this area improve for all of its residents. I see this desire everywhere—in the schools, the municipal leadership, the non-profits, the criminal justice system, the businesses, the religious communities, etc. Alongside this desire is a genuine and hopeful determination to transform those aspirations into lived experiences.

What I love most about life in FMWF is the constant push to make our community better, more welcoming, and more prosperous than it currently is.

WELCOMING ALL COMMUNITIES AND CULTURES

Having experienced life in both sprawling metropolises and small rural towns, my wife and I have found our preference lies somewhere in between. FMWF is one of those few places where our hopes for a community align with the reality on the ground.

When we want rural adventures like hunting or the rodeo, those things are easily accessible. At the same time, we can experience the energetic atmosphere of a lively farmer’s market or savor the flavors of African and Asian cuisine. FMWF offers abundant opportunities to cultivate connections within our neighborhood and church

communities. It is a place where one can witness meaningful change and actively contribute to making a difference.

and in cultivating networks through The Chamber’s Professionals of Color, Emerging Prairie’s StartupBREW, and the remarkable cultural events hosted by Folkways.

These are also the spaces where we find the most opportunities to give back to our community.

We have two daughters, 8 and 3 years of age, and we love raising them in FMWF. In my view, a healthy community is a place where one can belong, contribute, and grow. For my family, belonging is found in our bustling and lively neighborhood, our church communities, in relationships at Concordia College, fmwfchamber.com

37

LIVING IN FARGO-MOORHEAD

Career and Business Vitality

38

Metro Profile 2023-2024

Top Employers

Aldevron

Bell Bank Bethany Retirement Living Blue Cross Blue Shield CNH Industrial Concordia College Essentia Health Eventide Senior Living Communities Fargo Public Schools John Deere Marvin Microsoft

Minnesota State University Moorhead Moorhead Public Schools Noridian Healthcare Solutions North Dakota State University Sanford Health Scheels US Bank

U.S. Department of Veterans Affairs | Fargo Wanzek WEX

Economic Impact and major industries The size of the Greater FM economy has increased by 180% over a 20-year timespan from 2001 to 2021 growing from a GRP of $6.03 billion to $18.3 billion today. During this time the labor force has also grown by a significant 39% (3 times the national average of 13%).

Jobs by Industry (2022) Health care and social assistance – 27,378 Government – 20,142 Retail trade – 18,444 Finance and insurance – 13,016 Accommodation and food services – 12,528

Did You Know?

Bobcat’s North American operations are headquartered in West Fargo, North Dakota.

The company brought the world its first true skid-steer loader in 1960, built by the Keller brothers and mass-produced in Gwinner, North Dakota. This invention launched the compact equipment industry, now an $11.6 billion global enterprise.

In 2001, Microsoft acquired Fargo-born company Great Plains Software for $1.1 billion. Fargo is now home to Microsoft’s third-largest campus.

In 2021, Fargo-born biotechnology company, Aldevron, was acquired by Danaher Corporation for $9.6 billion.

Manufacturing – 11,713 Real estate – 10,828 Professional, scientific and tech services – 10,380 Transportation – 10,009 See the detailed economic impact of AgTech, Autonomous Systems, Bioscience, Distribution, Hardware & Software, Manufacturing and Value Added Agriculture here:

$66.8K average earnings per job

Available Jobs

3,437

Visit ignitefmwf.com

Statistics and data provided by the latest U.S. Census reports and the Greater Fargo Moorhead Economic Development Corporation. fmwfchamber.com

CAREER AND BUSINESS VITALITY

Sanford Medical Center Fargo is a Level 1 Adult Trama Center.

Construction – 11,966

39

An Amazing place for entrepreneurs​

i

I grew up on a family farm outside of Harwood, North Dakota. After completing high school, I attended the University of Minnesota and spent seven years in Minneapolis before traveling around the world for a year.

LIVING IN FARGO-MOORHEAD

In 2011, I returned to Fargo for one year to serve as a fellow at the Kilbourne Group under North Dakota Governor, Doug Burgum, before going to graduate school in Manchester in England. I fell in love with downtown Fargo and gave up my full ride scholarship to stay in our community.

40

My wife Christy and I have been married for seven years and are blessed to have three healthy children under the age of six. We are grateful for the tremendous teachers they have at the Academy for Children, the walkability of our neighborhood and the region’s bike paths and parks.

Christy and I met at the St. Patrick’s Day Parade in downtown Fargo. We enjoy exploring our community parks and traveling. We

Metro Profile 2023-2024

MTeehevten​

Greg

ty d to Chris Collaborator • Marrie tor, r, Innova • Curato

always treasure the experiences Folkways creates like the Red River Market and the Night Bazaar.

Currently, I serve as the CEO of Emerging Prairie and the Board Chair of Grand Farm. My role gives me the opportunity to collaborate with others on the vision, to dive into challenges and opportunities for the region, and to develop partnerships to solve problems. Emerging Prairie, our parent organization, is focused on energizing our community and creating a thriving ecosystem for entrepreneurs, innovators, and technologists. Grand Farm is a network of growers, technologists, corporations, startups, educators, policymakers, and investors working together to solve problems in agriculture with applied technology.

I also serve as the Curator of TEDxFargo, ensuring we highlight ideas worth spreading from folks in our community and around the world. I’m the Board Chair of Mark 4, a faith-based organization in Washington, D.C., on the Impact Investing Committee of the FM Area Foundation and a board member of the Great Plains I-Corps Hub.

W he n bu i l di ng my f i r s t startup, I learned the power of mentorship and support. After traveling around the world for a year, I desired the ability to know my barista and to make a local impact.

I was also frustrated with the global response when I shared with folks I was from Fargo. The integration of frustration and opportunity to support risk takers and share our city with the world motivated me to try and highlight the creative and talented folks of our region and attract folks to our community.

ADVICE FOR ENTREPRENUERS

I’m excited about the potential of young people in our community.

Watching several accelerators enter our market, including gener8or, gives me tremendous hope of engaging talented folks, providing mentorship, and giving folks access to capital. As we continue to develop, I’m looking for ward to increased regional amenities that focus on quality of life. The potential of our bike paths, the close proximity to lakes country, the Fargo-Moorhead Science Museum, natural parks and more.

These investments into quality of life will only increase the vibrancy of our community.

“My encouragement for folks would be to create the community they want to be part of. We all have an opportunity to get involved, either support work or fill gaps. We all have the entrepreneurial spirit inside ourselves, and my hope would be for folks to just start something! There is never a perfect time, and I’ve never heard a founder say, ‘I should have started later!’ Take the risk, dive in and enjoy the journey.”

EMERGING PRAIRIE

EMERGING DIGITAL ACADEMY

We serve community members interested in being a par t of the entrepreneurial community focused on startups, technology and innovation, along with those interested in learning about it. We believe that in order to have a healthy entrepreneurial community, we need a healthy ecosystem of connec ted resou rces . This communit y consist s of entrepreneurs, investors, government, universities, s tudent s, ser vice provider s, large corporations, etc. These participants, working together with shared passion, are vital to the success of an entrepreneurial community.

Become a full stack software engineer in just five months. An immersive 20-week experience that prepares students for entry level software development positions.

We use modern technologies like HTML5, CSS, JavaScript, git, React, and Node.js to teach foundational web concepts and techniques. The curriculum is designed to emulate the on-the-job training experience that an entry level developer would receive in the first few months at work.

GRAND FARM The Grand Farm Initiative was created to solve the biggest problems facing agriculture. It star ted around a community challenge and has transformed into a global leader in AgTech innovation. We are a collaborative network of growers, technologists, corporations, startups, educators, polic ymakers, and inves tors working together to solve problems in agriculture through AgTech and innovation.

STARTUPBREW FARGO

• S mall Business Development Centers to assist with business planning, financial forecasting, market research and more.

• State Entrepreneur Grants such as Innovate ND and Launch Minnesota.

• T he L IF T p ro g r a m, ND Development Fund and Bank of North Dakota provide agile funding possibilities.

• Several programs and academies that provide coaching, training, education, meetups and more to help take your ideas to the marketplace.

• Short-term office spaces and incubators for you to call home.

• Local opportunities to keep you connect to resources, people, discussions, and the community.

fmwfchamber.com

CAREER AND BUSINESS VITALITY

The mission of this weekly event is to learn, support, and inspire. This morning meetup is for entrepreneurs, innovators, creatives, and community members alike to come together and explore the entrepreneurial journey. This event is built on the notion that entrepreneurs do better when they have access to each other and the greater community that supports them.

Frequently used resources for our local entrepreneurs

41

Live your own legacy

i

Mreoneitng

J T Fto Brenda

are passing the baton to the next generation. This next generation is actively involved with and connected to our business community, and operates with a “let’s win together” philosophy.

nt, d • Marrie iness Developme s u • VP of B mbing lu Legac y P

I was Fargo-born, Fargoraised. I have never left, and I’m sure glad I stayed! The FMWF business community is in an incredible place because we have a passing of the torch taking place in which some business legends

What makes FMWF a great place to have a small business and do business in? Let’s thank countless Legacy Leaders that helped build a culture of small business success in our community.

Families like the Scheels, Burgums,

Offutts, Christiansons, Tharaldsons, Dawsons and so many more who have laid the brickwork and planted the spirit of entrepreneurship throughout our community. Birds of a feather flock together and we are blessed to have so many great business minds in our community.

Our team at Legacy Plumbing is full of high character passionate individuals who continue to uplift us and deliver on our mission every day.

We have had some incredible success finding, developing and training home-grown talent here at Legacy.

Once you find a company, a team, a mission, and role that you love paired with a business community that is as collaborative as ours, your passion will be lit on fire! Life is all about relationships so get involved, be passionate and live your Legacy!

LIVING IN FARGO-MOORHEAD

Opportunities for Eventide. Eventually, I took on to advance another challenged and worked

i

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MnieBeterg

Brittof Nursing, Eventide Senior r • Direc to mmunities ent C Living o areer advancem c d e u n • Conti

I have worked in long-term care since I was 15 years old, and I have always known this was the area I was meant to be in. When I first started working at Eventide, I enjoyed working alongside the CNA’s, many of whom became close friends,

Metro Profile 2023-2024

and I started to gain more interest in the nursing side of things.

My manager and the nurses saw potential in me and convinced me to apply to nursing school. Eventide was flexible with my schedule, so I was able to still work full time and go to school full time. It wasn’t easy, but I had a strong support system at Eventide. After I obtained my nursing degree, I worked as a treatment nurse and charge nurse

at a local hospital but I knew that wasn’t where my heart was. When a Resident Care Manager role opened at Eventide, I applied, and soon began my journey in a leadership position back at Eventide. After a few years of working as the Resident Care Manager, I was promoted to the Director of Nursing.

The opportunities are endless in this community! It is full of job opportunities and connections, so if you are looking, it’s very likely that you will find something that interests you. Some advantages to living in FMWF are that wages are competitive compared to other places and that companies are very present in the community.

Home to Countless Industries

B

MyeGertegoire

Jeremeneration owner of Bert’s -g • Four th i d to Heid , Minn. ie r r • Ma d Moorhea • Lives in

Bert’s Truck Equipment was founded in 1939 by my great grandfather Bert. He opened the first Bert’s in East Grand Forks, Minnesota, which is 75 miles north of Moorhead. In 1976, my dad Kent opened a location in Moorhead, as it placed us in a central location between our customers in North Dakota and Minnesota. In 2011, my dad sold Bert’s Truck Equipment of Moorhead to me, which makes me the fourth-generation owner.

The FMWF area is a ver y diversified community that has work available ranging from farming to technology jobs to service industry to health care and everything in between.

Fortunately, we live in a community with a workforce that is hard working, dependable and loyal to the companies they work for. On top of that, our business community is very supportive of each industry, and there are many business leaders who want to continue to help our community grow.

I have lived in this community all my life. I grew up in Dilworth, a small town on the east side of Moorhead and was one of the first people to open enroll in the Moorhead school district. I started attending Moorhead Public School in 6th grade and eventually moved to Moorhead when I was a sophomore in high school.

My wife Heidi and I met through mutual friends when she was in

high school and I was attending Moorhead State University, now called Minnesota State University Moorhead. She and I have chosen to stay in Moorhead so that I can continue to run Bert’s, but also because we really like the community and all there is to do here.

We have attended concerts at the Red River Valley Fairgrounds and Blue Stem Amphitheater, races at the Red River Valley Speedway, events at The Lights in West Fargo and musicals at Trollwood Performing Arts School. We also like to go to the movies, local breweries, Farg o - M o o r hea d Re d Haw k s baseball games and Fargo Force hockey games. We enjoy attending college events like football games, golf meets, volleyball games and musicals, as well as high school events ranging from theatre, music and sporting events – especially gymnastic at the 2 local gyms – American Gold Gymnastics and TNT Kids Fitness. Most importantly, we love cheering on our beloved Spuds at Moorhead Public School!

CAREER AND BUSINESS VITALITY

fmwfchamber.com

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The Ignite Initiative:

Empowering Regional Collaboration and Forging a Path Towards a Highly Skilled Workforce The Fargo-Moorhead West Fargo Chamber Foundation’s Ignite Initiative is our region’s driving force in building a resilient and inclusive workforce. Attracting exceptional talent, fostering seamless acclimation, nurturing continuous development and ensuring steadfast retention are the pillars that lead to workforce growth and prosperity.

Ignite is a powerful effort to showcase our region’s abundance of amazing opportunities. Here, career excellence and a high-quality life converge, offering more than just a job – it presents a chance to become a valued member of a welcoming community that nurtures personal and professional growth.

1.

LIVING IN FARGO-MOORHEAD

Attracting Exceptional Talent

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It starts with IgniteFMWF.com, which is an online platform that links job recruitment, skill building and career navigation into one collaborative resource to build a highly skilled workforce for the region. It also provides the opportunity to shape the future of our region’s workforce by connecting business leaders with educators and students.

Metro Profile 2023-2024

Our region offers a vibrant and dynamic job market with diverse employment opportunities across various industries. From cuttingedge agricultural and information technology companies to the flourishing manufacturing sector, there are roles that cater to a wide range of skills and expertise. You can view thousands of opportunities right on IgniteFMWF.com.

Our Communit y Concierge Progr am takes the lead in prioritizing talent attraction and seamless acclimation. From entrylevel positions to senior-level executives, whether considering a move or already transitioning, our community representatives and

Chamber employees are here to ensure newcomers feel at home from day one. With three access levels – Access, Customized Concierge and Premiere Concierge – we cater to unique needs for newcomers and businesses.

All Access

This level allows users to visit our website and self-navigate our platform to forge meaningful relationships with like-minded individuals that extend beyond the workplace and immerse themselves in the vibrant community where cultural experiences, recreational activities and personal growth opportunities abound.

Customized Concierge

The Customized Concierge’s Menu of Services presents a variety of options, ensuring you receive precisely the support you require, tailored to your interests and circumstances. With a dedicated team of Chamber employees and community experts available to help, you might want to tour schools, neighborhoods or even a faith community. You’ll feel embraced, supported and empowered to make the most of your experience in any one of our vibrant communities.

2.

Premier Concierge

Experience the true essence of our community with a meticulously curated itinerary. At this level, we design a series of personalized experiences that showcase the finest cultural, dining and recreational offerings available. Every detail will be thoughtfully arranged to align with your preferences.

Seamless Acclimation

Navigating a new community c an b e b ot h exciting and overwhelming, which is why the Community Concierge Program is a reliable guide. Our commitment to acclimation extends beyond the office walls – we are dedicated to helping newcomers set tle seamlessly into the community, ensuring time both inside and outside of work is enriching and fulfilling. As noted above,

a wide array of options foster an environment where unique strengths and perspectives are deeply valued.

Whether you are an individual looking to learn more about the community or an employer wanting to help a candidate envision life in one of our communities, we encourage you to learn more about the Community Concierge Program.

Newcomers will find a fulfilling and well-rounded lifestyle that complements their professional and personal aspirations. Experience the difference a supportive and inclusive community makes as you, a candidate or new employee, find a place in our vibrant and dynamic region, where your success and well-being are our utmost priorities.

Additional concierge offerings include:

• Guided networking to build a strong professional network is crucial, especially in a new environment.

We provide access to networking events and connect you with local business leaders and like-minded professionals, fostering valuable connections for your career growth.

• A ccess to health and wellness resources, from recommending healthcare providers to introducing you to fitness centers and recreational facilities that promote a healthy lifestyle.

• Want to get involved and give back to the community through volunteering opportunities? Our concierge team can introduce you to local charitable organizations and community projects, allowing you to make a positive impact and form meaningful connections. fmwfchamber.com

CAREER AND BUSINESS VITALITY

• Family support services, including school guidance, childcare options and recreational activities suitable for all age groups.

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3.

Development

Under Ignite’s umbrella, we offer transformative programs like IgniteFMWF.com, the Upskill-a-thon and EDventures that empower you to continuously develop and refine your skills. These initiatives ensure you stay ahead in your professional journey, are equipped to take on new challenges and excel in your career.

IgniteFMWF.com

LIVING IN FARGO-MOORHEAD

IgniteFMWF.com has skillb u il d i n g o p p o r t u ni t i e s f o r individuals looking to strengthen their resumes or venture into another industry. Businesses can also capitalize on professional development opportunities within the platform. Employers can build a curriculum to help nurture and grow their staff.

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Metro Profile 2023-2024

Upskill-a-thon

T h e U p s k i l l - a -T h o n i s a competition held in partnership with Microsoft and the Community Skills Initiative. It takes place in February and participants can take professional development quizzes to earn certificates and micro-credentials. Last year, our region’s competition saw the largest participation of any state. More than $10,000 in cash prizes were given to 12 winners.

EDventures

EDventures is a par tnership with the Cass County Career and Technical Education that provides businesses and area educators with an opportunity to connect on the region’s workforce needs.

Each June, educators travel to area businesses where employers share information about professional skills that are essential to operating a successful business. Teachers take what they learn back to the classroom to prepare students for their first days on the job, shaping and strengthening our region’s future workforce.

4.

Retention

In our community, we take pride in fostering a thriving and resilient wor k force, recognizing that retaining workers is essential for stability and growth. We prioritize building an inclusive environment where employees feel valued and supported.

At the heart of our approach is a local commitment to offering competitive compensation packages, which include rewarding salaries and attractive benefits. Employers understand the impor tance of investing in employees, providing them with oppor tunities for career development and growth within the organization.

Moreover, we believe in the power of meaningful work. Our businesses strive to ensure that employees understand the significance of their roles and how their contributions contribute to the greater mission and success of the organization. This sense of purpose drives motivation and job satisfaction.

In our community, we believe in creating a culture where employees are not just workers but valued members of a supportive and inclusive workforce family. Together, we cultivate an environment that promotes growth, success and a sense of belonging. It is through these efforts that we aim to attract and retain exceptional talent, driving the long-term prosperity of both our businesses and our community.

With a relentless commitment to progressing our communities and a deep respect for diversity, our vision is to create a vibrant, inclusive and thriving region. Our aim is to cultivate a community where the collective potential of our resilient and skilled workforce fuels

economic growth and prosperity for generations to come.

In the pursuit of a resilient and inclusive workforce, the FargoMoorhead West Fargo Chamber Foundation’s Ignite Initiative is paving the way for success. Through at trac ting exceptional talent, seamless acclimation, continuous development, and s teadfas t retention our vibrant community becomes the ideal destination for professionals to thrive. Embrace the transformative journey of joining our workforce, where endless opportunities for growth, connection and prosperity await.

Together, we ignite the power of our workforce and shape a future that empowers and uplifts us all.

CAREER AND BUSINESS VITALITY

But our commitment doesn’t end within the office walls. Our employers recognize the value of connecting with our community, fostering pride and attachment to the region. Business leaders encourage and support employees to get involved in community initiatives and volunteer activities, allowing them to make a positive impact outside of their work responsibilities. fmwfchamber.com

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Thrive as a professional

i

Meet ​

cey Alex toLAshaley

mmunit y d • Marrie in the business co gram pro d • Engage d in the LFMWF te a ip c ti r • Pa

LIVING IN FARGO-MOORHEAD

It’s funny looking back, because I didn’t think I’d stay in this area long after college. My father joined the Navy shortly after I was born, which meant we moved up and down the East Coast until I was 13 years old due to his promotions. We ended up moving to South Dakota, where I attended high school and lived until I moved to Fargo for college in 2011.

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When I graduated from North Dakota State University (NDSU), I told my supervisor I’d commit to staying another year or so to build my resume before looking to move back out east. That conversation was almost eight years ago, and I haven’t looked back once. I always thought I’d move back east, but professional opportunities kept presenting themselves here, and when I paused to look around, this community just had so much to offer.

My professional journey with Gate City Bank began 10 years ago, when I was a student at NDSU. I’ve been lucky to have had amazing supervisors who have identified my potential, given me Metro Profile 2023-2024

opportunities to prove myself and succeed, and been committed to my professional development through continued educational opportunities, leadership programs and mentoring.

For example, Leadership Fargo Moorhead West Fargo (LFMWF) is a great program that allows area professionals to sharpen their leadership skills and develop positive business relationships. The unique experience LFMWF offers assisted me in building personal and business connections, as well as gaining deeper exposure to our community.

To the person questioning if they can build a career in this area, you can! Just don’t try to do it alone. We do many things in life independently, but building a career doesn’t have to be one of them. I attribute much of my professional success to others. Even though I did the work, my mentors provided the needed motivation and support.

LEADERSHIP FMWF

T his 10 - mont h leader s hip program left an impression on me that will last a lifetime. I built 39 longlasting relationships with whom I regularly connect with for support, collaboration and motivation.

LFMWF allows area professionals to sharpen their leadership skills. I appreciate the unique experience that the leadership program offered me.

Maneiee tNelson

C

Stephy from Iowa

all argill • Origin anager, C M d il u B t • Projec

Cargill brought me and my family to the FMWF area in 2007 from Iowa, a move that brought us closer to friends and family

Nourishing the world had a knack for these sorts of things. while building Over the years I’ve transitioned bet ween projec ts and plant a career management, until five years ago around Duluth, Minnesota.

About 10 months after starting at Cargill I had the opportunity to work on an expansion project at one of our facilities. I was put in charge of automating the department. I was working on the leading edge of installing intrinsically safe technology for our business. I was also tasked with the piping design and installation. It turned out that I

We are more than your local trucking company – we are your nationwide transportation network!

I returned to project management and am now responsible for the front-end loading, bidding, execution, commissioning and turnover for multiple projects at our facility.

Cargill invests in their employees and believes that as employees, we are in charge of our development. I have participated in many forms of leadership training throughout my career. I look forward to continuing my role finding the tools and resources for my team to reach their goals.

Improving lives by building strong communities

Connect with us!

701.282.4692 mooreengineeringinc.com

WWW.MAGNUMLOG.COM fmwfchamber.com

CAREER AND BUSINESS VITALITY

• Civil Engineering • Environmental • GIS/Survey • Transportation • Water & Wastewater • Municipal • Land & Site

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LIVING IN FARGO-MOORHEAD

A New Era of Education

50

Metro Profile 2023-2024

Population by Educational Attainment

Source: Greater Fargo Moorhead Economic Development Corporation

Cass County School Districts (ND)

Colleges & Universities

• Fargo (11,336 enrolled) • Central Cass • Kindred • Maple Valley • Mapleton • Northern Cass • Page • West Fargo (12,702 enrolled)

Our community is home to more than 25,000 higher education students

Clay County School Districts (MN)

• North Dakota State College of Science – Fargo

• Barnesville • Dilworth-Glyndon-Felton • Hawley • Lake Agassiz Special Ed. Cooperative • Moorhead (7,427 enrolled) • Ulen-Hitterdal

Innovative learning

Fargo-Moorhead is home to cutting-edge approaches to education, including:

• Minnesota State University Moorhead • Minnesota State Community and Technical College

• North Dakota State University • Rasmussen University – Fargo Campus • University of Jamestown – Fargo Campus • University of Mary – Fargo Campus

• 55 + childcare centers • 60 + preschool locations

Just to name a few: • Boys & Girls Club of the Red River Valley • Bright Futures Learning Center • Fraser, Ltd. • Jasmin Child Care & Preschool • Little Jungle Childcare Center • Small Wonders Preschool & Child Care • YMCA of Cass and Clay Counties

Did you know?

North Dakota State University (NDSU) holds an elite designation as an R1 Research Institution by the Carnegie Classification of Institutions of Higher Education.

This classifies NDSU as “Doctoral/ Very High Research Activity,” which is the highest possible rank among research universities.

fmwfchamber.com

A NEW ERA OF EDUCATION

• Moorhead Career Academy • NDSCS Career Innovation Center • Ignite FMWF • CareerViewXR • Emerging Digital Academy

• Concordia College

Daycares and Learning Centers

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i LIVING IN FARGO-MOORHEAD

I moved to Moorhead in 2014, when I accepted an offer to be in a district-level administrative position with Moorhead Public Schools. Living in Moorhead for nearly a decade has been a great joy. The community is great for

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Metro Profile 2023-2024

DISCOVERING PASSIONS AND EXPLORING CAREERS

MdeoneLt unak

Branto Melissa

ad d • Marrie ndent of Moorhe te in r e • Sup 2021 hools Public Sc emy launched in d a Ac • Career families and offers well-rounded education, plentiful activities and entertainment, and many other opportunities.

The Moorhead Area Public Schools Career Academy is all about giving our students the opportunity to experience

hands-on learning while helping students to discover their passions and explore career options through capstone and internship experiences through community and business partnerships.

The Moorhead High School Career Academy is unique to our area but not necessarily unique across the country, as more public schools work collaboratively with area businesses to get students exposure to multiple pathways. The career academy exists to provide a hands-on, authentic experience that will allow our students the opportunity to learn valuable life

skills that will take them out of the traditional classroom and into the “real world” classroom. Our region, like many others, is experiencing a workforce shortage, and the career academy will be able to provide valuable experiences to our students and businesses.

The Moorhead Area Public Schools are proud of the Career Academy and the partnerships the district will develop within the community as careers evolve and transform over time. What makes me the most excited about the future of our school district is the evolution of our district through the continued development of our partnerships with local businesses.

It will be through these partnerships that will enable our district to educate the whole child through the balance of both the classroom and the authentic learning experiences developed through partnerships with our business community.

The district is also working on partnerships with local health care

This past year, students from the automotive class teamed up with Fix it Forward Ministry to help rehabilitate its 400th vehicle they have donated to a family in need.

and long-term care businesses to support the Health and Human Potential Academy . Eventide Senior Living Communities and Sanford Health have teamed up with our school district to support our students who want to obtain a Certified Nursing Assistant (CNA) Certification. Over the last couple of years, demand for this class has been increasing to the point that the district needed to increase the number of sections to accommodate the demand. Eventide stepped up and has made a commitment

to the district to support the funding to make the staff member full-time to accommodate the demand. In our latest discussions, both organizations are looking at solutions to get students credentialed and immediately eligible for hire as a Certified Nursing Assistant.

Our schools distric ts value our students. Not only that, but our businesses value them too.

Students are the future of our workforce, and it is great to live in a community that prioritizes that.

A NEW ERA OF EDUCATION

fmwfchamber.com

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Embracing the Future:

Education Ventures into a Bold New Era of Possibilities

i

In the face of a r apidly changing work force industr y, shifting societal dynamics and technological advancement s, education finds itself on the brink of a transformation. Traditional models of learning are gradually making way for an innovative and personalized approach to knowledge acquisition. Welcome to the new era of education, where the boundaries of the classroom

are expanding and the horizons of learning are limitless.

The Fargo Moorhead West Fargo Chamber Foundation’s Ignite Initiative plays a pivotal role in driving continued success for our workforce by using multiple educational components. One critical aspect of this initiative is career exploration in K-12 education, which has undergone significant changes to adapt to the evolving needs of students and the job market.

As the importance of fostering

Upskill-a-thon

LIVING IN FARGO-MOORHEAD

Additionally, we offered our first-ever Upskill-a-thon last winter. A fun competition organized in partnership with Microsoft and Community Skills Initiative, it showcased the rapid pace of change in the job market.

This competition catered to individuals of all ages and encourages continuous skill development.

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By offering access to a plethora of free courses, participants can earn certificates and micro-credentials in various learning pathways. (Courses are offered in both English and Spanish) The enthusiastic response to the UpSkill-a-thon, with a remarkable number of certificates and micro-credentials earned, reflects the eagerness of participants to remain relevant in the workforce through continuous upskilling. Look for more information about a potential 2024 competition in January.

Metro Profile 2023-2024

economic growth and societal progress grows, there has been an increasing emphasis on introducing students to various career options at an earlier age. This includes using technology to showcase diverse career possibilities, bringing in professionals from different fields to interact with students and organizing career fairs. Virtual job shadowing, online career assessment tools and interactive platforms that simulate workplace scenarios enable students to explore various career paths right from their classrooms.

2023 Upskill-a-thon Results • 12 winners received a total of $10,050 in cash prizes • Participants were from the entire State of North Dakota and the Minnesota counties of Clay, Becker, Wilkin and Otter Tail.

• T he competition provided access to 152 courses, which were offered for free in both English and Spanish.

• 126 individuals successfully completed 417 certificates across nine different learning pathways.

• Our competition represented 45% of all certificates and microcredentials earned nationwide across all participating states and communities. This was the most participation in any competition!

Ignite FMWF

IgniteFMWF.com is an online platform that links career navigation, skill building and job recruitment into one collaborative resource, and schools throughout the region have started using this platform. Educators in our region have begun using IgniteFMWF.com to introduce students to various career options through the eyes of real people working real jobs. This platform has videos for students to explore career fields, professional skills, training and education pathways and typical salary ranges.

Tailoring career exploration to individual student interests and strengths is also a growing trend in K-12 education. Personalized learning plans help students identify their passions and align their educational paths with future career aspirations. IgniteFMWF.com plays a crucial role in this regard, exposing students to a wide range of career options, which encourages them to explore diverse career paths, including non-traditional fields like trade schools, vocational programs and on-the-job training programs.

IgniteFMWF.com also allows educators to curate and assign students skills-based training and career development courses. User-friendly dashboards allow educators to track student course progress and help them build compelling resume right on the platform.

The collaboration between educators and regional businesses facilitated by IgniteFMWF.com extends beyond career exploration. It also enables educational institutions to remain abreast of projected job market trends, ensuring that career exploration efforts align with future employment prospects. This foresight empowers students to prepare for jobs that are likely to be in high demand upon their entry into the workforce. As students engage with professionals from various industries, they build meaningful relationships, seek guidance and learn from seasoned mentors, who offer invaluable career advice and support. This fosters a sense of community and a shared commitment to nurturing a skilled and prepared future workforce, ultimately benefiting our local communities.

IgniteFMWF.com by the numbers (as of July 2023) Users

Robust learning opportunities

Careers

• More than 1,400 users

• More than 2,000 courses, quizzes, exams and surveys

• More than 4,200 current jobs posted

• 521 new users in 2023 • 24 new users per week on average • 415 organizational accounts

• 110 career videos feature local professionals

• Soft skills course examples: Professionalism, integrity, interpersonal

• 42 local businesses are featured in videos and shared with a national audience

• 60 New organization accounts in 2023

EDventures

The EDventures program, a collaboration with the Cass County Career and Technical Education, further underscores the significance of business and educator partnerships in K-12 career navigation. Also part of the Ignite Initiative, this program allows educators to visit businesses throughout the region, where employers share insights about employment experiences and vital professional skills necessary for successful careers in their respective industries. Armed with this knowledge, teachers return to their classrooms and align their programs with the latest industry trends, ensuring that students are better prepared for their future roles and bolstering the strength of our region’s workforce.

skill sets demanded by employers.

With a shared vision of fostering a vibrant future workforce, the partnership creates a sense of community engagement, uniting various stakeholders in pursuit of a collective goal. Together, we can

• 15 local businesses participated.

• 29 teachers, counselors and administrators made valuable connections with businesses.

• 15 educators earned continuing education credits through NDSU or the State of Minnesota.

• Participants were from schools in Fargo, West Fargo, Moorhead and Richland County. shape and fortify the foundation for a prosperous future, where k nowle dge, innovation and excellence take center stage.

#IgniteYourWorkforce

fmwfchamber.com

A NEW ERA OF EDUCATION

As education ventures into this bold new era, business and educator partnerships emerge as the cornerstone of success. The mutual collaboration nurtures a generation of skilled and adaptive individuals who possess the right

2023 EDventures highlights

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Discover ByteSpeed, a leading IT solutions company from Moorhead “IgniteFMWF.com offers a user-friendly interface that makes it easy to navigate and search for job opportunities, streamlining the job search process. The platform provides access to a wide range of job listings from various industries, giving individuals a diverse selection of employment options to explore and pursue. IgniteFMWF.com offers a network of reputable employers, increasing the chances of connecting with well-established companies and organizations that offer competitive salaries and benefits. The platform allows job seekers to create detailed profiles and upload their resumes, enabling them to showcase their skills and qualifications to potential employers effectively.”

Anna Hanson,

LIVING IN FARGO-MOORHEAD

Bytespeed Sales Director

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ByteSpeed has firmly established itself as a renowned IT solutions provider since 1999. Beyond their expertise in custom-built computer hardware, ByteSpeed takes pride in leveraging strategic partnerships to offer top-notch technology solutions. Operating across all 50 states, ByteSpeed delivers exceptional enterprise networking solutions and professional IT services nationwide.

risk-free evaluations, free custom bulk packaging and on-site parts closets, solutions are precisely tailored to meet your unique needs.

At ByteSpeed, employees are committed to going above and beyond to enhance customer experience with value-added services. Benefit from free shipping, free imaging and free lifetime tech support, ensuring a seamless and supportive journey with the team. With

Discover the power of ByteSpeed, a trusted partner in IT solutions. Experience the difference today as they empower your business with cutting-edge technology and unwavering support.

Metro Profile 2023-2024

Count on ByteSpeed for reliability, swift support and competitive prices. Customer satisfaction is at the forefront of their mission, and they are dedicated to delivering exceptional customer experiences.

Forum Communications creates a legacy of media excellence in the Upper Midwest “IgniteFMWF has the potential to serve as an amazing connector between employers and the next generation of workforce in our local FMWF schools. As a mother of 3, that is very exciting to me! As the world continues to embrace and grow in their acceptance that a 4-year college track may not be “for everyone,” I think it is incredibly important to be able to provide resources (and at a younger age than in the past) to children who may chose a 2-year program, or forgo schooling altogether to pursue apprenticeships, employment, military and other opportunities in our local communities. To allow children to have the opportunity to explore where their strengths and passions lie will be absolutely invaluable to them as they move into the future, and I truly believe that IgniteFMWF will be the one to enable this experience!”

Sara Hastings,

Senior HR Business Partner at Forum Communications From the company’s modest beginnings as a newspaper company, they have undergone a remarkable evolution, transcending traditional media boundaries.

Their commitment to purpose remains steadfast: “Connecting and Transforming communities lies at the heart of all that we do.”

Forum Communications Company takes pride in their rich history while embracing a forward-looking approach.

Empowered by cutting-edge technology and a passion for innovation, they continue to serve as a driving force in shaping the media landscape and making a lasting difference in the lives of the communities we serve. fmwfchamber.com

A NEW ERA OF EDUCATION

Forum Communications Company has proudly served the Upper Midwest since 1878 as a family-owned media and technology enterprise. Over the years, they have expanded offerings to encompass diverse services, solidifying their position as a leading force in the region’s media landscape. Today, the organization’s repertoire boasts more than 50 publication titles, four ABC-affiliated TV stations, commercial printing, an interactive division, full-service content marketing, video production and radio.

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Empower students’ futures

T

Meet as​

on DenisheelpJstudents

to • Strives est Fargo, N.D. W in s e • Liv

LIVING IN FARGO-MOORHEAD

There are so many wonderful aspects of living in the FMWF region, so it is truly hard to pick my favorite. However, if I must, it would be the collaborative, innovative spirit of the community.

From schools to colleges, nonprofits to industry, government to entrepreneurs, everyone is striving to make the FMWF community, the community of choice. There is a healthy competition between the cities in the metro to make this the best place to live, work and play, which makes all of us better.

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For the past nine years, I have had the honor to serve as the Director of Career and Technical Education for the Cass County CTE Center (C3TEC) consortium.

As CTE Director, I oversee and coordinate CTE programs for the C3TEC network, along with CTE programs for Fargo and West Fargo comprehensive high schools and middle schools. In total, I work with 15 unique CTE programs, 9 Governance Board members, 6 superintendents, 24 principals, more than 100 CTE teachers, 15

Metro Profile 2023-2024

career counselors and advisors, and a CTE leadership team of 5. I enjoy meeting new people, connecting ideas and finding solutions, which is an everyday occurrence in my role.

WHAT IS CTE?

CTE is engaging, as students learn technical skills and apply core academics through a careerconnected theme. Students may find out they love a CTE pathway and choose more classes or that it was not what they imagined and

choose another pathway to explore.

Data shows that students in CTE graduate at higher rates because it provides relevance for learning and engages students in active thinking. CTE curriculums also provide hope as students begin to envision their future and life after high school, which empowers them to take charge and become productive citizens.

In CTE, students can maximize their talents from interior design to construction, child care to teaching, marketing to entrepreneurship, surge technician to the medical field. Our goal is to encourage every student to participate in one or more CTE courses every year during their high school experience and to complete two credits in a Coordinated Plan of Study by graduation.

T

SHOWING STUDENTS THE OPPORTUNITIES THAT AWAIT

MKeeentz​​

Sarahquisition Specialist Ac • Talent native oorhead -M o • Farg

The opportunities for success in FMWF are abundant! I am employed by Titan Machinery, one of the largest American dealers of agricultural and construction equipment, where I work as a Talent Acquisition Specialist. This position allows me to work with students through our Service Technician Sponsorship program and develop talent pipeline programs that help others find connections between their education, interests and career goals.

opportunities await them, rather than just tell them.

We have students who joined us in their junior year and are now in their final year of schooling to be Diesel Mechanics. We also have had students who report back that their on-the-job training in high school has set them ahead of classmates.

We have even seen students realize a career pathway they were

determined to pursue was not what they thought it would be. This experience allows for a better understanding of what a career looks like and helps students see what a career looks like on a daily basis, which can result in greater or lesser interest. We believe it is valuable to be a part of a student’s career journey, whichever direction their journey goes.

A NEW ERA OF EDUCATION

Titan Machinery has recognized the educational shif t around increasing the availability and exposure to work-based learning opportunities earlier in a student’s career. To provide a landing place for high school juniors or seniors, we created our EDGE program which allows students to join Titan Machinery for 12 weeks at a dealership location. During that time, students explore all areas of our business and gain insight into the different roles (Service, Parts, Sales, Technology). It is our goal to show students what we do and what

fmwfchamber.com

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Start your career

i

Meetk

ooc Nick rL UM a d o f MS

g -time • Recent ign Intern to full s e • From D ative re Digital C

I have lived in the FMWF area my entire life. I was born and raised in Moorhead, went to High School at Shanley High School and moved to Fargo during my time as a student at MSUM.

The biggest thing that drew me to MSUM was the welcoming community that I felt while I was visiting. The relationships I made with my professors and advisors before even beginning classes made all the difference.

that I was able to find my passion early on. The hands-on learning, small group feedback, and quality time with professors are what made my time so memorable.

I currently work as a Digital Creative at AdShark Marketing in town. I began as an intern during my senior year and was hired full time last spring. I am constantly learning and get to flex the skills I developed at MSUM. I couldn’t have asked for a better place to begin my career.

I graduated in spring of 2022 with a Bachelor of Fine Arts degree in Graphic Design with a minor in Art. My favorite thing about MSUM was

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A community influenced by young professionals is a community that attracts and retains them. Start getting involved today and become a part of this network that is home to the leaders and influencers of tomorrow.

LIVING IN FARGO-MOORHEAD

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Proudly enhancing the FMWF community with infrastructure solutions water resources | transportation | site development | and much more!

houstoneng.com Metro Profile 2023-2024

Creating Experiences & collaborations

F

e c n e i r e p Ex ys​ Folkwa

tion organiza d e s a -b y unit • Comm ing tes learn a it il • Fac students • Guides

Folkways is a community-based organization dedicated to fostering a sense of belonging, economic growth and community vitality through the creation of immersive experiences and collaborations.

Folkways is known for organizing events such as the Red River Market, Night Bazaar and Christkindlmarkt.

Folkways also runs a program called CampusFM, which aims to inspire passion within students for the FMWF area and encourage them to start their careers here af ter graduation. CampusFM showcases the opportunities and unique experiences in the area, providing students with the tools and resources they need to achieve their career goals.

Student Engagement

The Intern Experience, originated

by Emerging Prairie, is an enriching 10 - we e k s k ill d evelo p me nt program. Businesses can enroll their interns in this immersive journey to provide them with a fulfilling and enriching internship experience that equips them for future success. With weekly twohour sessions, interns can expect to build professional skills, navigate real-world challenges and gain valuable insights from industry professionals. The program focuses on fostering a strong sense of community, setting and achieving SMART goals, managing time effectively, navigating ambiguity, embracing feedback and honing emotional intelligence, all while offering opportunities to network with local leaders and envision life as a young professional. This immersive journey is dedicated to equipping interns with the necessary tools and connections for career and personal success, thereby strengthening co mp any c ult ure, b o os ting per formance and contributing to the local economy. Folkways par tners with Greater Fargo Moorhead Economic Development Corporation and Fargo Moorhead West Fargo Chamber of Commerce (FMWF Chamber) to bring this transformative experience to life.

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A NEW ERA OF EDUCATION

Folk ways values p e e rdriven community content and interac tions, recognizing the importance of meeting students where they are and tailoring their approach to their unique needs.

They are committed to building a

strong sense of community among students and providing them with resources and support. They believe that by fostering an inclusive and collaborative community, they can empower students to develop the skills and relationships necessary for success in their chosen career paths. One of the ways they do this is through a CampusFM Internship called the Creatorship.

The Creatorship is a comprehensive 10-week program aimed at honing students’ abilities. The program provides in-depth training on using social media as a potent tool for communication, community engagement and marketing.

In a similar vein, Folkways has reintroduced the Intern Experience.

This program aligns perfectly with their mission to fortify community bonds, facilitate learning and pave the way for student success.

Intern Experience

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LIVING IN FARGO-MOORHEAD

Neighborhoods & Quality of Life

62

Metro Profile 2023-2024

Cost of living and community stats METRO AREA

CURRENT AVG EARNINGS

COST OF LIVING INDEX

COST OF LIVING ADJUSTED CURRENT AVG EARNINGS

AVG FAMILY SIZE

ANNUAL LIVING WAGE FOR FAMILY OF 3

Fargo Moorhead

$73,360

101.5

$72,276

3.03

$75,256

Sioux Falls

$73,634

106.0

$69,466

3.04

$76,465

Minneapolis

$91,006

104.8

$86,663

3.14

$85,101

Denver

$97,656

115.5

$84,551

3.14

$95,209

Des Moines

$82,408

98.5

$83,663

3.10

$76,386

Omaha

$75,777

99.5

$76,158

3.15

$79,845

Home values and rent MEDIAN HOME VALUE

METRO AREA

Building permits in Fargo-Moorhead

MEDIAN GROSS RENT: 2 BEDROOM

Fargo Moorhead

$235,600

$869

Sioux Falls

$221,500

$883

Minneapolis

$287,600

$1,291

Denver

$443,400

$1,616

Des Moines

$205,200

$981

Omaha

$195,000

$1,019

HOME TYPE

MAY 2023 YTD

MAY 2022 YTD

% CHANGE

Total

928

514

81%

Single Family

311

472

-34%

Multi-Family

617

42

1,369%

Twinhomes are included in multi-family numbers

Total passengers at Hector International Airport PASSENGERS

JUNE 2023

JUNE 2022

% CHANGE

YTD 2023

YTD 2022

% CHANGE

Total

82,095

74,899

10%

516,462

446,013

16%

Taxable Sales (Cass County, North Dakota) Q1 2022

Q4 2022

Q4 2021

2022 TOTAL

$673,877,580

$631,241,175

$828,413,218

$764,780,277

$3,189,401,185

Taxable Sales (Clay County, Minnesota) ANNUAL 2019

ANNUAL 2020

$427,972,988

$422,356,027

Economic Indicators provided by the Greater Fargo Moorhead Economic Development Corporation (June 2023)

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NEIGHBORHOODS AND QUALITY OF LIFE

Q1 2023

63

Pp

Hit the Ground Running In FMWF

Meetn-Smith

iso Lisa EdPenny

d to • Marrie ing ac tive tay • Loves s est Fargo, N.D. W • Lives in

LIVING IN FARGO-MOORHEAD

Penny and I met, in large part, through running local 5k’s and other races. We both have really enjoyed participating in the half-marathon event with the Fargo Marathon, biking, focusing on our jobs and church events and spending time with our families.

64

We built a new home in West Fargo nine years ago. I had always lived in south Fargo and, my wife Penny used to live in north Fargo.

West Fargo was a quickly growing area, convenient to freeways and had some beautiful new subdivisions, so we both agreed our new home would be there. We were one of the early homeowners to build in Rivers Bend at the Preserve and love it. The area has developed into a beautiful residential neighborhood with convenient access to walking trails, parks, the Rustad Recreation Center, The Lights West Fargo, and other shopping and amenities. It also is a fun neighborhood with great neighbors.

I previously lived in the St. Louis metro and then the Minneapolis-St. Metro Profile 2023-2024

Paul metro for years before moving back to Fargo. FMWF offers a variety of art, sports and cultural experiences without the gridlock of a large metropolitan area.

The area has grown so much and has become such a nice destination, and the metro downtown areas continue to offer lots to do. We love Broadway Square, restaurants, North Dakota State University (NDSU) football and our beautiful downtown church and church family at First Presbyterian Church Fargo.

We love our yard and spend lots of time working on keeping it up. We like to entertain family and

friends in our backyard pool from May until it gets cold. In the winter, we remove our own snow, work out as much as our age allows and spend our time watching sports and binge-watching Netflix. When the NDSU Bison are away, we watch football and occasionally host football watch parties at our home.

We also have lots of toys for active play and outdoor activities because we’re still kids at heart and we love to have fun with our grandchildren and great nieces and nephews!

We have a very friendly group around us in the neighborhood. Our neighbor Greg has barbecued for our backyard parties. The number of Trick-or-Treaters we get every year is crazy. We like to wear costumes and have treats for the adults as well as the kids!

There is just the right mix of activity and quiet where we live.

The location is great and West Fargo has developed and continues to develop its parks and outdoor recreation, which we love.

C

RAISE A FAMILY AND CREATE A LIFE

Msaey eWt ahlo​

Lind to Cooper

d • Marrie orace, N.D. H in s e • Liv

Cooper and I met at NDSU in 2010 and have been married for almost eight years and have three young children. Cooper moved here from Woodbury, Minnesota and I am originally from Jamestown, North Dakota. I was already somewhat familiar with the area before moving here for college, but it was new to Cooper, and he quickly grew to love the area.

We do travel somewhat often and utilize the airport quite a bit. Fargo’s airport makes it quick and easy to get just about anywhere. It’s nice being so close to a decent-sized airport and not having to make a road trip to get to one.

The FMWF area has so much to offer. There are tons of job opportunities, things to do and experience without having to travel far and it is a great place to raise a young family. There is really something here for everyone.

NEIGHBORHOODS AND QUALITY OF LIFE

It was an easy decision for us to stay here. One thing we love about living here is the quietness of our neighborhood and that we are accompanied by so many young families like our own. We have an amazing park nearby our home that has so many amenities like pickleball courts, ice skating rink, basketball court, a soccer field and a great playground for our children. We love this because we like to stay active and explore new things with our children. We are also very close to schools.

about 15 minutes. It takes me even less time to get to work.

Another huge plus is that it doesn’t take hours to get to work.

Cooper works on the opposite side of town, but he can still get there in fmwfchamber.com

65

Vibrant Downtown Living

i

MiaeReitchards

Soph rad of NDSU

g • Recent owntown Fargo D • Lives in

I live in an apar tment in Downtown Fargo and absolutely love it! I am a short walk to all my favorite boutiques, restaurants and bars. I knew I wanted to be

in Downtown Fargo because I love being in the center of the action, and there is always something going on Downtown! From the Downtown Fargo Street Fair to fun events at the Jasper Hotel or ice skating at Broadway Square, there are constantly fun events going on that are just a short walk from my apartment.

YOUR FARGO-MOORHEAD REAL ESTATE EXPERTS B UY | S EL L | BUI L D | R I G HT SIZE

There are so many great opportunities to make new connections and meet people living Downtown. A lot of my friends live close by, and you never know who you might see while stopping by Daily’s Market for a La Croix or grabbing some ramen at Drunken Noodle!

While I often run into friends downtown, something interesting is that I met one of my closest friends in my apartment building. We ran into each other in the lobby and just decided to go out for drinks one day, and we have been close ever since!

We love to explore Downtown Fargo together or make a day trip to Detroit Lakes and enjoy the lake.

2023 Locals Love Us

2023

LIVING IN FARGO-MOORHEAD

RealTrends

66

Search for homes in the FargoMoorhead & lakes areas. Dow nload ou r app: web . p a r kco m p a ny.co m Metro Profile 2023-2024

2022

Best of the RR Valley

2022

RISMedia Power Broker Report

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i

GET AWAY FROM THE HUSTLE AND BUSTLE

MMeeattthys

Paulto Angie

d • Marrie indred, N.D. K in s e • Liv

I was raised on a farm in rural West Fargo, and Angie was born and raised in rural Harwood. We met through mutual friends in 1995 and got married in 2002. We have three children and live in Kindred, North Dakota, which is a bit outside of Fargo. We think that this state and the FMWF metro area is an excellent place to raise a family.

We have low crime rates, good schools and career opportunities, and excellent hunting and fishing.

I have 30 miles of easy driving (with 3.5 miles of gravel) on my way to work in the mornings. It’s the perfect amount of time to listen to Pandora and drink coffee. I’ve been fortunate to have a roughly 23-year career at Cass County Electric Company, and sincerely enjoy the flexibility, opportunity to advance,

Although it’s easy to get into town, we also enjoy just having evenings at home and spending time together outside. There is plenty to do outside near our home: camping, fishing, hunting, gardening, riding ATVs or bikes, playing sports or hanging out and grilling. Occasionally, we like to go to nearby small-town bars and restaurants with other couples.

People in this area work together, solve problems and help provide healthy communities where people want to live. Also, its NOT always cold here. We love living and raising our family here.

NEIGHBORHOODS AND QUALITY OF LIFE

We have always enjoyed living in a rural area. We can get away from the hustle and bustle to enjoy the great outdoors, but still have nearby amenities. We have easy access to fitness centers, restaurants, hotels, bars, post-office locations, sporting events, movie theaters, shopping malls, shooting ranges, grocery stores and more.

Kingpinz has escape rooms, laser tag, new ways to go bowling, an arcade and food and drinks. Our family utilizes the state parks and the North Country Trail, and we love to spend time on and in the water during the summer.

training oppor tunities, health benefits and hard-working mindset of the company.

Suite Shots and Kingpinz are two relatively new places we like to take our kids to. The two buildings are right next to each other and boast great entertainment options. Suite Shots has outdoor golf bays, indoor golf simulators and event spaces. fmwfchamber.com

67

M

WHERE NEIGHBORS ARE FRIENDS & KIDS CAN THRIVE

Meet mstad​

jel my H n i st u e D inja Acad tar N of Four S n • Owner he d to Gretc • Marrie orhead, Minn.

Mo • Live in

My family loves FMWF because of the friendly people and all the family-friendly activities. What’s great is that we have everything we need right by us. Our home location is wonderful – right next to interstate. Trips are quick that way, and traffic is minimal on our twominute drive to our bank, pharmacy, restaurants, hospital and grocery store. We even live close to one of our favorite parks.

LIVING IN FARGO-MOORHEAD

Our neighborhood is nice and quiet with low traffic, and we are surrounded by wonder ful neighbors. It feels like its own little family, as everyone is friendly and

68

Metro Profile 2023-2024

always willing to help each other out. For example, we had tree damage from a windstorm once, and the neighbors all chipped in to help clean it up. People brought chainsaws over and went to work, not expecting anything in return.

Something else we appreciate about our neighborhood is that we all help watch each other’s pets when someone is out of town to help save each other money on kenneling fees.

One of our neighbors has a daughter the same age as my son (3 years old). Every night when we get home, they are waiting for each other. We hang out outside and watch our kids chase each other

around, have water fights and ride their bikes.

In the summer, my family likes to spend our time playing in our yard, playing with water balloons or going on bikes rides. When it gets colder, we spend time in our music room, playing guitar or piano, playing and singing our favorite tunes. We also enjoy puzzles, board games and watching movies together.

I own Four Star Ninja Academy.

It is an American Ninja Warrior training facility. We work with kids and adults ages 3 and up. Teaching them how to build strength, courage, commitment and confidence through various obstacles.

This is one of the most fulfilling jobs I’ve had. Helping kids build strength, overcome fears and build their confidence in themselves.

We teach ninjas how to learn from failure instead of seeing failure as the end result. I want to make a positive impact on kids’ lives and teach them to thrive in the world.

Find your new home

i

eEedtwards Jr. M ederick

Fr

ance ’s Disson orkshops d re F f o r e • Found of Umoji Writing W ner w -o o • C ey d to Sydn • Marrie

I’ve lived in Fargo for 10 years. It’s kind of funny, because I moved to North Dakota for college, and when I first committed, I thought I was going to college in Montana.

I fully believed that North Dakota and South Dakota were just large towns in Montana and not their own states! I quickly found out that I was wrong, but nonetheless, stayed to continue working towards my degree.

Minneapolis, so moving here was quite the change. We were able to establish so many relationships in such a short period of time here – it was unbelievable! My favorite aspect of raising a family here is the cost of living, the food and the overall experiences my child will have. Aramias, my daughter, has developed and grown in a tightknit community here, and I am so grateful for that. She has gone to 15 events this year with friends her age, and that is something we cannot obtain from a larger city.

I came to FMWF, 300 miles away from my comfort zone, my home. My wife Sydney and I are originally from the north side

A community influenced by young professionals is a community that attracts and retains them. Start getting involved today and become a part of this network that is home to the leaders and influencers of tomorrow.

Follow us on Facebook and learn more at fmwfchamber.com/YPN

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NEIGHBORHOODS AND QUALITY OF LIFE

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LIVING IN FARGO-MOORHEAD

Business Vitality

70

Metro Profile 2023-2024

Public Policy & Advocacy

Workforce & Talent

Community Enhancement

Organizational Excellence

Major programs, events and initiatives that support our mission and cornerstones * Denotes an initiative that is powered by The Chamber Foundation

Business Vitality

Workforce & Talent

Empowering businesses through impactful programs, events, connections and resources that actively engage our members. These valuable opportunities strengthen our vibrant business community.

Engaging in innovative approaches and partnerships to strengthen, inspire and maintain a vibrant workforce ecosystem. Efforts range from curated professional development opportunities to large-scale acclimation, development, and retention efforts. Intentional, integrated and impactful workforce development is critical to the economic success of our region and businesses.

• Ambassadors & Ribbon Cuttings • Business Resources and Access • Eggs & Issues • Signature Events • Visibility and Sponsorship

Public Policy & Advocacy Advocating for policy, convening public officials and business leaders, inspiring civic engagement and leading critical efforts to represent our business community’s interests at all levels of government.

A strong, business-friendly climate is essential for economic growth and prosperity.

• Agribusiness • Business Resources & Access • Eggs & Issues • Midwest Summits • Public Policy Initiatives and Programming

• Concierge Program* • Ignite Initiative* • Diversity, Equity and Inclusion and Professionals of Color* • Women Connect • Young Professionals Network

Community Enhancement Establishing and accomplishing rising-tide initiatives that extend our service and impact far beyond only Chamber members or the present day. We are dedicated to the growth and prosperity of our entire region and those within it.

• Leadership FMWF • Macro-economic initiatives • Midwest Summits • Military Affairs • Signature Events

Organizational Excellence Advancing our mission to be a catalyst for growth and prosperity for the region requires The Chamber to have a high standard of excellence related to the internal team and organizational health. Maintaining a strong financial position, continually developing team members and enhancing our vibrant organizational culture are core to our success, service and impact.

THE CHAMBER

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LIVING IN FARGO-MOORHEAD

The Chamber’s Community Builders

72

Metro Profile 2023-2024

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Internet. TV. Phone.

Our Chamber members are the heartbeat of our mission and are committed to the growth and prosperity of our region. We are proud to list our members online, where they are easily searchable by industry, categories, names and more.

We invite you to learn more about these leading companies and to consider doing business with our members.

Scan the QR code below to visit our member directory.