Prairie Business April 2025 by Grand Forks Herald

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For over a decade, LeAnne Jaenisch has been using her unique blend of expertise as an electrician and theater technician to mold the next wave of innovators at North Dakota State College of Science (NDSCS) Her classroom is where electricity, robotics, and automation come alive, shaping the hands-on minds of the future

With deep community connections and an unmatched educational experience, NDSCS (and leaders like LeAnne) are driving the future of robotic technology

Leading the charge in NDSCS’s Robotics, Automation, and Mechatronics Technology (RAMT) program, LeAnne oversees a powerhouse of a curriculum with a nearly perfect job placement rate Students leave her program equipped to take on the world of robotics, controls, automation, and systems integration ready to excel in high-demand industries

NDSCS stands tall in the Fargo-Moorhead-West Fargo, Fergus Falls and Wahpeton-Breckenridge communities. The college isn’t just teaching it’s fueling local economies and forging powerful partnerships with industry giants like Marvin, John Deere, and JDP Automation.

LeAnne is one of many experts we’re proud to be leading NDSCS.

MAPLE GROVE, MINN. • SANDMAN STRUCTURAL ENGINEERS IS EXCITED TO WELCOME DYLAN MACK TO THE TEAM. WITH FOUR YEARS OF EXPERIENCE, MACK JOINS THE MAPLE GROVE OFFICE AS A STRUCTURAL DESIGNER ON THE INDUSTRIAL TEAM. HE GRADUATED WITH A BACHELOR OF SCIENCE IN CIVIL ENGINEERING FROM THE UNIVERSITY OF NORTH DAKOTA. MACK HAS EXTENSIVE KNOWLEDGE OF TRANSMISSION LINE DESIGNS RANGING FROM 69KV TO 345KV SYSTEMS. HIS PASSION FOR EFFECTIVE DESIGN AND DETERMINATION FOR SUCCESS MAKE HIM A

EDITOR’SNOTE

CARRIE MCDERMOTT EDITOR

SOME OF THE DAILY PRODUCTS WE USE COME FROM UNIVERSITY RESEARCH

Invention and innovation go hand in hand with universities, and many products and services coming out of university research are commercialized. While doing my own research on the topic for this month’s cover story, I learned that the Honeycrisp apple, one of my favorite apples, was developed by researchers at the University of Minnesota. U of M is also known for the development of the pacemaker, the retractable seatbelt and cancer treatments, among others.

Electrical engineer Harry Nyquist, who graduated from the University of North Dakota more than 100 years ago, significantly impacted the modern communication systems we take for granted today. UND is known for its research and development in the aerospace industry, including UAS (uncrewed aircraft systems), among other areas. New research from South Dakota State University’s Department of Chemistry, Biochemistry and Physics, led by Adam Hoppe, aims to better understand one of the immune system’s key tools in eliminating cancerous cells, macrophages. At NDSU, known for its research contributions to agriculture, breakthrough research is showing a promising solution for protecting sunflower crops from damaging fungi.

Research is taking place at universities across the country to improve society in every way imaginable. Our higher education feature this month focuses on these four universities and how researchers are working with industry to come up with solutions to everyday challenges.

We have a guest column from the president of Minnesota State University Moorhead, Dr. Tim Downs, who writes about the impact of higher education partnerships with industry on communities.

“As deeply rooted community partners, higher education and industry can become stronger strategic collaborators to promote robust economic, educational, and social advancement. Institutions of higher education are strategic partners committed to serving their communities by helping businesses grow, supporting innovation, and building thriving communities,” he writes.

The technology focus this month is on cybersecurity for businesses and why even a sole proprietor shop needs a base level of cybersecurity to keep their data, and their customer data, safe.

A technology column from Eide Bailly expert Trina Michels writes about preparing your business for the next wave of AI, emphasizing the importance of having an AI strategy.

Real estate is another key feature for April. Fluctuating mortgage rates, inflation and changing job markets are all influencing the market. We spoke with a few Realtors and mortgage brokers about the trends they’re seeing and what it means for buyers and sellers.

Also inside, we have our eighth part in a series looking back through the archives of Prairie Business as part of our anniversary celebration, as well as our college student profile Generation Next.

Please continue sending in your comments and story ideas -- they may just end up in a future edition of Prairie Business.

As I write this, the snow is falling again in Grand Forks, but hopefully, by the time you read this, our region will be starting to look like spring!

Until next month, Carrie McDermott

I look forward to hearing from you at cmcdermott@prairiebusinessmagazine.com or 701-780-1108.

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Prairie Business magazine is published monthly by the Grand Forks Herald and Forum Communications Company with offices at 3535 31st St. S., Suite 205, Grand Forks, ND 58201. Subscriptions are available free of charge. Back issue quantities are limited and subject to availability ($2/copy prepaid). The opinions of writers featured in Prairie Business are their own. Unsolicited manuscripts, photographs, artwork are encouraged but will not be returned without a self-addressed, stamped envelope.

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25 YEARS Of Prairie Business:

BILL GATES

WAS FEATURED ON THE COVER OF THE JUNE 2013 ISSUE OF PRAIRIE BUSINESS. / PRAIRIE BUSINESS

Industry leaders talk philanthropy, entrepreneurship

BILL GATES, DOUG BURGUM FEATURED AT FARGO EVENTS IN 2013

BY CARRIE MCDERMOTT

Editor’s Note: This is the eighth part in a series looking back through the archives of Prairie Business as part of our 25th anniversary celebration.

In late April 2013, nearly 4,000 guests attended the dedication of the renovated Grant Center, home of the Offutt School of Business, at Concordia College in Moorhead, Minnesota. The event featured a special guest — Microsoft co-founder and philanthropist Bill Gates, who took part in a question-and-answer session after a 10-minute address. The event was featured in the June 2013 edition of Prairie Business.

“Concordia’s business program is liberal artsbased and focuses on global understanding, entrepreneurship, ethics and leadership, fundamentals which dovetail well with Gates’ history of leadership, innovation and a philanthropic focus on global issues with a goal of improving lives around the world,” the article stated. Gates shared a bit about his “two careers,” and said that even though the focus of Microsoft – selling software to people who can afford computers – and philanthropy are different paths, they share a common foundation.

“At its core, it’s basically the same thing, which is finding innovators, being willing to back them, understand what they’re working on, measure

what they’re coming up with, try to make sure that when it’s delivered it really has the impact it’s supposed to have, and getting into a feedback loop, driven by very precise measurement,” he said at the time. He told the audience that the things he learned at Microsoft prepared him, as well as provided the resources, to do the work of philanthropy.

Securing Gates as a speaker for the event was made through a member of the college’s Global Leadership Council, Harold Hamm, who is CEO and chairman of Continental Resources. The two leaders came to know one another through The Giving Pledge, a group made up of billionaires who have publicly committed to giving away the majority of their wealth to philanthropy.

Giving Pledge was developed in 2010 by Bill Gates and Melinda French Gates, along with Warren Buffet, to bring together people who were already philanthropic or thinking about becoming philanthropists, so they could share their knowledge on how best to contribute their wealth. At the time of the article, 105 people were members of the group. As of 2023, there were 244 members from 30 countries.

Another article covered a public event in Fargo, Cultivate.you, intended to inspire and

encourage entrepreneurship in the community. The event featured Arthur Ventures Growth Fund LLC co-founder Doug Burgum, Forbes magazine Publisher Rich Karlgaard and Atlassian co-founder and co-CEO Mike Cannon-Brookes.

Fargo was poised to be a technology hub, Karlgaard said. The city boasts available startup capital, has a solid foundation of role models with a history of successful business experience, and a density of tech talent supplemented by thousands of new prospects at nearby universities, the article said. Also, it’s more affordable to live in a city like Fargo compared to tech hubs like Silicon Valley.

“I’m a huge believer in the value of culture and that culture springs from a profound purpose –not a purpose that is written as a corporate mission on a wall, but something deeper,” Karlgaard said. “If you don’t get that right then you’re off on a wrong track and you will never be able to attract the right kind of people.”

Burgum said the Arthur Ventures fund is focused on supporting companies with the right combination of values and ideas.

“If the CEO and the founder don’t have the right values, then it’s a nonstarter no matter how good the idea is,” Burgum said at the event.

WANZEK NAMED CHIEF INVESTMENT OFFICER, SWEENEY CHIEF ECONOMIC STRATEGIST AT BELL BANK

FARGO, N.D.

• Bell Bank has named Zac Wanzek, CFA, CPA, as chief investment officer (CIO) and Greg Sweeney, CFA, as chief investment and economic strategist for Bell Institutional Investment Management, a leader in investment solutions for insurance companies, foundations, private clients and family offices, a release states.

Sweeney has served as chief investment officer at Bell for the last 21 years, while Wanzek has served as deputy chief investment officer since 2021. In recent years, Bell Institutional Investment Management has experienced significant growth, and today manages over $10 billion in institutional client investments, according to the release.

“This is an exciting evolution for Bell Bank Wealth Management and Bell Institutional Investment Management,” said Patrick Chaffee, Bell’s executive vice president for banking, wealth management and insurance. “Zac and Greg’s partnership and expertise will help drive our institutional investment growth for years to come.”

As chief investment officer, Wanzek will lead strategic investment efforts, working to ensure that Bell continues to be a market leader providing best-in-class investment expertise to institutional and wealth management clients. Wanzek joined Bell in 2012 as portfolio manager and serves on the institutional investment and wealth management committees, the release states.

In Sweeney’s new role, he will continue to work closely with clients and provide guidance, support, and mentorship to the portfolio management team for institutional investment management. He continues to chair Bell’s investment committee and contributes thought leadership in the form of his popular monthly and annual economic outlooks.

Wanzek earned bachelor’s degrees in accounting and finance from the University of North Dakota, is a Chartered Financial Analyst (CFA) charter holder and holds the Certified Public Accountant (CPA) designation. He is also an advisory board member for the North Dakota State University Bison Fund and The University of North Dakota Venture Group, as well as serving as an industry mentor and advisor for the CFA Institute Research Challenge. Wanzek is a member of the North Dakota CPA Society and the CFA Institute, and he serves the CFA Society Minnesota’s board of directors as its vice president.

Sweeney graduated from the University of North Dakota, earning a degree in business administration with finance and investment disciplines. He has been a Chartered Financial Analyst (CFA) charter holder since 1993. A highly regarded industry speaker, Sweeney has published articles in Institutional Investor’s Bondweek, the Insurance and Financial Journal and the Wall Street Transcript.

KRAUS-ANDERSON BEGINS RENOVATIONS AT VETERANS MEMORIAL ARENA IN WEST FARGO

WEST FARGO, N.D. • The Fargo office of Kraus-Anderson has begun a renovation at West Fargo Park District’s Veterans Memorial Arena located at 1201 7th Ave. East in West Fargo, N.D.

Designed by ICON Architectural Group, the 80,000-square-foot, $2.8 million capital improvement project consists of HVAC upgrades to both ice arenas, including new air condi-

tioning at the Vet’s 1 Arena for non-ice event use during the summer.

Additional improvements at the Vet’s 1 Arena include renovations to the four locker rooms, modifying the bleachers to allow for handicapped access and the addition of surveillance and access control systems.

The project is expected to be completed in late October 2025.

HOW A DEALER PORTAL CAN IMPROVE YOUR BUSINESS OPERATIONS

Jacob Dahl, VP of Sales & Marketing at Onsharp

Q What is a dealer portal, and how can it help businesses succeed?

A A dealer portal is a secure online platform that connects companies with their manufacturers, suppliers, and dealers. Think of it as a central hub for sharing data, coordinating processes, and processing transactions. By giving dealers real-time access to data, businesses can improve decisionmaking and simplify operations.

Q What sort of features do dealer portals typically have?

A Dealer portals often include order management for real-time product availability and pricing, inventory management with lowstock alerts, and shipment tracking to keep customers updated on deliveries. They also offer reporting and analytics tools to provide insights for better decision-making.

Q What common business challenges can a dealer portal address?

A A dealer portal helps businesses overcome common challenges like inefficiencies, limited visibility, and communication gaps. By automating tasks such as order management and shipment tracking, it reduces manual work and errors.

Q How can a dealer portal improve customer satisfaction?

A A dealer portal can provide real-time updates on orders and shipments, giving customers clear and accurate information. With faster communication and fewer delays, businesses can proactively address issues and manage expectations. This transparency builds trust and ensures a smoother customer experience.

If you’d like more information on custom portals, visit Onsharp.com/portals.

GREG SWEENEY

ZAC WANZEK

HIGHEREDUCATION

UNIVERSITY OF NORTH DAKOTA

STUDENT TRACY MITCHELL REMOTELY CONTROLS AN UNMANNED AERIAL SYSTEM (OFF CAMERA) INSIDE THE LARGE FLIGHT-TEST LAB OF UND’S ROBIN HALL, WHERE STUDENTS CAN PRACTICE MANEUVERS WITH ONE OF THE SEVERAL REMOTE AIRCRAFT. /UNIVERSITY OF NORTH DAKOTA

CUTTING-EDGE RESEARCH AT REGION’S UNIVERSITIES IMPACTS OUR DAILY LIVES

HIGHER EDUCATION PARTNERSHIPS WITH COMPANIES IMPROVE PRODUCTS, CREATE A HIGHLY SKILLED WORKFORCE

BY CARRIE MCDERMOTT

In mid-February, the Carnegie Foundation named the University of North Dakota in Grand Forks an R1 institution, the highest designation for research activity among universities in the United States. The designation means the institution has research expenditures of more than $50 million and awards at least 70 research doctorates annually. With this achievement, UND joins a peer group of institutions including Harvard, Stanford and Yale, as well as the University of Minnesota, among others.

SCOTT SNYDER VICE PRESIDENT OF RESEARCH AND ECONOMIC DEVELOPMENT AT THE UNIVERSITY OF NORTH DAKOTA

“This recognition highlights UND’s exceptional commitment to research and discovery. It serves as a testament to the momentum we have generated through the hard work of so many faculty, students, and staff members and through our exceptional growth in research funding, including that supported by North Dakota’s elected leaders,” UND President Andy Armacost said when announcing the coveted designation.

Scott Snyder, vice president of Research and Economic Development at UND, said the university’s research expenditures have increased from $110 million five years ago to $180 million, with nearly $18 million coming from industry.

“It’s a testament to the really innovative, hard work that our university partners are doing, our university faculty staff and students are doing, to propel research forward at the university,” Snyder said.

The R1 designation also helps the university attract high-caliber faculty as well as graduate students who may only want to perform research with an R1 institution.

The research done at universities across the region impacts industry in numerous ways. It creates a foundation for big advancements in sectors such as energy, national security, health and medicine and even economics.

UND is home to the Energy & Environmental Research Center (EERC), where researchers develop technologies to help make energy production more efficient and environmentally friendly. EERC leads the way with industry partnerships at UND, but partnerships are made across a variety of disciplines, Snyder said.

“John Oncken (CEO of True North Equipment in Grand Forks, a John Deere equipment dealer) was just commenting to me and President Armacost about how great it has been to work with graduate students to solve some of the technical challenges that they have at True North surrounding their sensing and equipment and other things related to really advanced agricultural equipment,” Snyder shared. “That’s been a really great partnership between our graduate school and True North.”

He said industry partnerships are a big part of workforce development because students get exposure to what it’s like to work with the industry, which gives them a leg up when it’s time to join the workforce.

The UAS (unmanned aircraft system) efforts in Grand Forks are another area where UND researchers are working with industry to evolve products and systems such as Project ULTRA, which has a goal of going from research to practice and demonstrating a variety of UAS applications that will benefit Grand Forks Air Force Base

HIGHEREDUCATION

and provide a template for UAS activities across the country. Last year, the Department of Defense tasked Project ULTRA with developing the capability to deliver military cargo using UAS.

NORTH DAKOTA STATE UNIVERSITY

About an hour’s drive south to the campus of North Dakota State University in Fargo, the work of researchers is helping to support startups and small businesses through accessible tools such as research tech parks and electro-microscopy. Notable research includes precision agriculture, AI and autonomous trucking.

Cynthia Graffeo, Innovation and Economic Development director in the Office of Research and Creative Activity at NDSU, said the university maintains its R1 designation, reflecting $190.3 million in research expenditures in fiscal year 2023, a fifth consecutive year of record-breaking investments.

Graffeo, who worked in economic development in the Fargo-Moorhead area for a decade before joining NDSU, said one of the hidden gems at the university is the maker space and the research tech park, where companies can test out their inventions for a reasonable price.

“We’re accessible, we’re local, and we have things that can help a small business or a startup get farther faster,” Graffeo said.

“Pretty much every student on campus is connected and conducting research in some way, shape or form,” she said. “We’re really proud of that

fact. It’s an applied education so that when our students hit the workforce, they are ready to hit the ground running. We have undergrads who are starting businesses, we have graduate students who are starting businesses. We have faculty grad student groups, and companies going through the I-Corps (National Science Foundation Innovation Corps) program and creating spin-offs, as well. So really, any step of the way, if somebody has an idea for a business or a product, that’s really what my office is here for, is to help them,” she said.

About 18 months ago, NDSU made a commitment to commercialization and economic development within the division of research and creative activity, she said.

“We’re working with our friends in the economic development ecosystem, so everyone from the EDC to Emerging Prairie, to really make sure that we have our finger on the pulse of our community,” she said.

As a land-grant university, NDSU is at the forefront of agricultural research, which includes not only seed varietals but precision ag, robotics and algorithms identifying weeds, for example.

“It’s big data and cybersecurity because as you’re using those algorithms and smart ag tech, we need to process big data. We need the computer

THE NORTH DAKOTA STATE UNIVERSITY RESEARCH EXTENSION CENTERS’ ANNUAL FIELD DAYS SHOW NORTH DAKOTA AGRICULTURAL

It is our land-grant university responsibility to help solve the multi-faceted problems we face.

— SDSU President Barry H. Dunn

CONTINUED FROM PAGE 16

scientists and the engineers behind that, so we always like to say food security is national security. It is a broad spectrum,” Graffeo said.

Health care is another area where NDSU is leading the way in the state. North Dakota’s largest nursing program is housed there, and a master’s program in diagnostic medical sonography is being added.

SOUTH DAKOTA STATE UNIVERSITY

Efforts are underway to achieve the R1 designation at South Dakota State University as part of the university’s Pathway to Premier 2030 strategic plan.

“It is our land-grant responsibility to help solve the multi-faceted problems we face. Those solutions will also bring opportunity. We can best help our state and region solve these problems and harvest the associated opportunities with R1 status,” SDSU President Barry H. Dunn said.

DANIEL SCHOLL

STUDENTS DOING RESEARCH AT SOUTH DAKOTA STATE UNIVERSITY’S COLLEGE OF PHARMACY AND ALLIED HEALTH PROFESSIONS’ HAARBERG CENTER FOR DRUG, DISEASE AND DELIVERY RESEARCH.

/ COURTESY SDSU

SOUTH DAKOTA STATE UNIVERSITY VICE PRESIDENT FOR RESEARCH AND ECONOMIC DEVELOPMENT AND PROFESSOR

Professor Daniel Scholl, vice president for Research and Economic Development at SDSU, spoke about the university’s research impact on industry, highlighting historical achievements like Edgar McFadden’s wheat stem rust resistance breeding and ongoing collaborations with companies like General Mills.

“We had a student here named Edgar McFadden who went on to get a Ph.D. and become a faculty member at a handful of different institutions, but being here with SDSU faculty provided him the scope for imagination and the wherewithal to try to do something impossible, and he succeeded,” Scholl said.

McFadden was in the U.S. Army during WWI and spent most of his career working for the U.S. Department of Agriculture and the Texas Agricultural Experiment Station. He developed rust-resistant varieties of wheat that led to the prevention of starvation by millions of people.

“By making this cross-domesticated wheat that essentially conferred a natural resistance to wheat stem rust and wheat stem rust was affecting wheat crops globally at the time, which obviously had a negative impact on the ability to feed people. At a time when genetic technologies of today were not available, he achieved that. And the germplasm that came from that is still circulating in wheat varieties today, in breeding programs globally,” Scholl explained.

SDSU continues its breeding programs for variety crops, variety development programs as well as winter wheat, spring wheat and oats.

CONTINUED ON PAGE 18

HIGHEREDUCATION

CONTINUED FROM PAGE 17

“We partner with General Mills, who’s an obvious user of a lot of oats to the extent that General Mills moved their oat breeding program to Brookings, South Dakota, side by side with our oat breeder program. So we’ve got several years of a very effective public-private partnership with the private sector as well, meeting private sector organizations’ needs, but really driving value back to growers,” he said.

The university sells its oat varieties worldwide, including both domestically and internationally. The royalties from these oat sales support programs at South Dakota State University, furthering its mission. It benefits the people in the region and those who come for a land-grant university education.

Even the university’s decades-old research of low-till and no-till farming, crop rotation, and cover cropping continues to benefit ag producers today.

“That kind of approach to the cultivation of major crops, including corn, makes it possible to even contemplate something like corn or soybeans being a lower carbon intensity crop cultivated with the methodologies that enable pulling carbon dioxide out of the atmosphere and essentially sequestering it in the ground,” Scholl said. “South Dakota and North Dakota have quite an advantage over many other regions because of our geography combined with our cropping practices and much of that, a substantial proportion of that, came from low till, no till, crop rotation and cover cropping research and demonstration at South Dakota State.”

SDSU has a partnership with a capital investment firm, South Dakota Innovation Partners, which has helped to license a bioprocessing fer-

mentation technology that transforms soybean meal from the normal extraction of soybean oil from the meal, and processes the soybean meal into a high-value, highly concentrated product, Scholl explained. That protein product is used for aquaculture diets, pet diets, livestock diets and even human diets and is sold globally.

UNIVERSITY OF MINNESOTA

The University of Minnesota, a major public research institution, boasts multiple health schools and significant agricultural research, including soil, water and crop studies. It has developed notable products like the pacemaker, cancer therapies, biodegradable plastics and the retractable seat belt. The university receives over $1.4 billion annually in research expenditures, with $1 billion in awards, primarily from federal sources. Despite current federal grant uncertainties, research continues, especially in national security. The university is a significant startup creator, contributing to the economy through innovative research and industry partnerships. The university recently celebrated a milestone of helping create 25 startup companies in a single year based on university research.

JoonHyung Cho, assistant vice president for External Affairs and Communications in the university’s Research and Innovation office, said U of M is one of the few universities in the country that has all of the health schools on campus – medical, dental, public health, pharmacy, nursing and even a veterinarian medicine school. He said having all of those schools together creates a synergy and allows students and faculty to consider things in a holistic way.

The interconnectedness of research areas include soil and water studies to crop production, animal health, and human nutrition. The university’s

CONTINUED ON PAGE 19

THE HONEYCRISP APPLE, ALSO KNOWN IN EUROPE AS THE ‘HONEYCRUNCH’ APPLE, IS ONE OF THE UNIVERSITY OF MINNESOTA’S BEST APPLES. MILLIONS HAVE BEEN SOLD TO PEOPLE WHO LOVE THE WELL-BALANCED SWEET-TART TASTE, AND EXPLOSIVELY CRISP, JUICY TEXTURE. / COURTESY UNIVERSITY OF MINNESOTA

research is very involved in solving real-world problems, often in collaboration with industry. These partnerships aim to create meaningful, impactful solutions, as demonstrated by innovations like pacemakers or open-heart surgery, with long-lasting benefits

“Sometimes we have a solution for almost anything in the world, but that doesn’t mean it’s a solution that can be commercialized,” he said. “Sometimes it’s too extremely expensive to consumers, so then there’s no market.”

JOONHYUNG CHO

ASSISTANT VICE PRESIDENT FOR EXTERNAL AFFAIRS AND COMMUNICATIONS AT THE UNIVERSITY OF MINNESOTA’S RESEARCH AND INNOVATION OFFICE

This is why the U of M partners with global companies such as General Mills, Cargill and Boston Scientific – because the research being done at the university may provide solutions that the companies didn’t know they had answers for. Students are also able to understand how their research training can be useful to the world, Cho explained.

One point of pride is the university’s apple program. Most of the apples in the United States can trace their genealogy back to the apple program at the U of M, Cho said. The Honeycrisp apple is one of the university’s best apples and is widely grown around the world. It was named the Minnesota State Fruit in 2006 and selected as one of the top 25 innovations in over a decade in the 2006 Better World Report.

Other examples of significant research impact include a K-12 National Science Foundation computer science education grant to serve rural and

tribal communities, the Forever Green initiative to develop cover crops that can make farming more sustainable and profitable for producers, a major National Institute of Health grant for clinical and translational research, and UMN startup company Niron Magnetics, which is scaling up operations in Minnesota.

UNIVERSITY OF MINNESOTA VICE PRESIDENT FOR RESEARCH AND INNOVATION SHASHANK PRIYA SIGNS AN AGREEMENT IN DECEMBER 2024 WITH MEDTRONIC AS UMN PRESIDENT REBECCA CUNNINGHAM, MEDTRONIC SVP AND CHIEF TECHNOLOGY AND INNOVATION OFFICER KEN WASHINGTON, AND MEDTRONIC CEO GEOFF MARTHA LOOK ON. / UNIVERSITY OF MINNESOTA

BUILDING GREAT COMMUNITIES

SENIOR NETWORK OPERATIONS CENTER ENGINEER PAUL LENZMEIER, LEFT, AND SENIOR PHYSICAL SECURITY ENGINEER JAMES JERGER, WITH HIGH POINT NETWORKS. / SUBMITTED

CYBERSECURITY EXPERTS WEIGH IN ON CRUCIAL PROTECTIONS FOR BUSINESSES ORGANIZATIONS MUST ADOPT A TECHNOLOGY MINDSET TO PROTECT AGAINST CYBER THREATS

BY CARRIE MCDERMOTT

All businesses, regardless of size, need to consider themselves technology companies if they rely on the internet for operations. Jon Waldman, president and partner at SBS CyberSecurity in Madison, South Dakota, shared this message in an effort to help organizations rethink the way they protect themselves.

“It’s a mindset shift, because if you at least realize that you are a technology company, then you think of your organization differently,” he said.

The 2023 Internet Crime Report by the FBI Internet Crime Complaint Center (IC3)

JON WALDMAN

revealed increases in the frequency and financial impact of online fraud by cybercriminals. The IC3 received 880,418 complaints from the American public in 2023 with potential losses exceeding $12.5 billion, an increase of complaints by nearly 10% compared to 2022, and a 22% increase in losses. The most frequently reported crime in 2023 was phishing schemes, accounting for about 34% of all complaints reported.

Waldman shared an example of a small florist shop that’s not heavily reliant on technology but does use it as part of day-to-day operations. The sole proprietor uses the vendor Square to accept credit card payments. One day, someone texts and calls the shop pretending to be a representative of Square – a person the business owner is familiar with. The owner was busy and didn’t ask enough questions about the information being

requested, and the “threat actor” took advantage of that. The threat actor was able to get the business’ credit card information and by the next morning, the business owner discovered $5,000 worth of fraudulent charges on their account.

“A lot of small businesses in particular will tell themselves a really bad story,” Waldman said. “And they’ll make excuses, and they’ll say, ‘Well, I’m a small business in the middle of nowhere. I’m a floral shop in the middle of Madison, South Dakota. Nobody knows who I am. Nobody knows what I do. Nobody knows I’m not valuable.’ And I say people tell themselves a bad story and they make an excuse because those things are not true. The vast majority of cybercrime is simply a crime of opportunity.”

Waldman said it doesn’t matter what size the business is, what sector it’s in or how much revenue it brings in, although small businesses can be more often at risk due to limited resources.

“A bad guy doesn’t care. A threat actor, a cybercriminal, doesn’t care about any of those things. To a bad guy on the internet, you’re a number, that’s all they’re interested in,” Waldman said. “They’re looking for victims of opportunity, which is why we call it crimes of opportunity. The vast majority of cybercrime is automated today, automated to the point of compromise.”

Cybercriminals take the path of least resistance, the low-hanging fruit. Waldman says they’re looking for vulnerable IP addresses or vulnerable devices connected to the internet that can be compromised. Sometimes the target is not the organization hacked – it’s a vendor.

In 2013 during the Christmas holiday season, retailer Target sustained a major data breach after hackers entered the digital systems of one of its vendors — an HVAC company in Pennsylvania. Target’s point-of-sale machines had been compromised and as a result, 70 million of its customers’ personally identifiable information and 40 million customers’ credit card information were stolen.

The vast majority of cybercrime is simply a crime of opportunity.

— Jon Waldman, president and partner at SBS CyberSecurity

Scott Kaylor is senior manager for Business Services at NISC (National Information Solutions Cooperative) in Mandan, North Dakota. NISC is an information technology company that works primarily with its member-owners, which are utility cooperatives and broadband companies across the U.S. Kaylor said his organization has seen an increase in ransomware threats, noting 31 attacks on its member-owners since November 2021 and 11 last year, with 8 in the fourth quarter of 2024.

It’s now common knowledge that an organization must have its technology protected using things like firewalls and endpoint detection systems, for example. The biggest weakness of most organizations is the employees, Kaylor shared. Educating employees on cybersecurity and regular training throughout the year is crucial to ensure social engineering attempts are thwarted. Social engineering can be phishing, which can come via email, SMS, social media and other types of personal communications. According to the FBI, about 98% of cyberattacks use some type of social engineering to cause a breach.

CONTINUED ON PAGE 22

CYBERCRIMINALS TAKE THE PATH OF LEAST RESISTANCE. THE BIGGEST WEAKNESS OF MOST ORGANIZATIONS IS THE EMPLOYEES, EXPERTS SAY. / SBS CYBERSECURITY

TECHNOLOGY

CONTINUED FROM PAGE 21

Kaylor said NISC provides cybersecurity resources for its member-owners, along with support and education. The organization works closely with the North Dakota State and Local Intelligence Center, which takes reports of crime as well as sends out notifications about criminal activity.

SCOTT KAYLOR

“As a company that considers themselves fairly good on the consulting side of this, we also use tools. We have those same attacks,” McDougall said. “We have the same things happen. We have people in our organization who get an email that looks legitimate, and they open it and it’s not legitimate, and we’ve had a few instances where it’s initiated an attack. We have tools in place that can stop those. We know how to do that, but that still doesn’t prevent the initiation from happening. Really, it’s training. It’s giving people examples of what they might see.”

CYBERSECURITY EXPERT CEO OF HIGHPOINT NETWORKS, SIOUX FALLS, SOUTH DAKOTA

SENIOR MANAGER FOR BUSINESS SERVICES AT NISC (NATIONAL INFORMATION SOLUTIONS COOPERATIVE) IN MANDAN, NORTH DAKOTA

“They (cybercriminals) are preying on you and me as an end consumer of utility and telephone broadband service, meaning, ‘I’m going to try to get Scott Kaylor’s email and address for NISC smart hub to pay my bill,’ and then they work their way into the organization where they’re targeting end users. They’re trying to use that to social engineer into a business. So that’s also an important thing to notice, and we have. It’s pretty important. And I think that’s an eye-opener for a lot of people,” Kaylor said.

“We’re in tax time right now, so everybody’s busy doing their taxes, and that’s a great time for threat actors to try to social engineer employees and basically anybody, to be honest with you, but they could do that through a business as well. So they’ll use the time of the year, whether it’s Christmas, tax time, or even a natural disaster,” he said.

Kaylor said businesses should have layers of defense. First, make sure every employee has good password hygiene and password rotation.

“I like to use the word passphrases because they’re much easier to remember. And you can do 20- or 30-character passphrases, like ‘I like to hunt pheasants in North Dakota,’ and you can put special characters. It’s a lot easier to remember than a 20-character password. So I try to educate them to use passphrases versus passwords.”

Another way to tighten security, Kaylor said, is to use multifactor authentication. It can be used on social media accounts, bank accounts, utility accounts, and anywhere a person wants to increase their cybersecurity, noting that threat actors will see that and often move on to someone else.

“You’re making it more difficult for them. So they’re going to pivot and go with somebody else that they can prey on, that don’t have that,” he said.

Overall, every organization should have the mindset that “it’s going to happen to me.”

“From a business perspective, think ‘We are going to have a threat actor on our network.’ Having the tools and getting the visibility to see when a threat actor gets on the network and starts to elevate privileges or look for how they can exploit vulnerabilities on a network, having those tools that’ll pinpoint that, and having that monitored by someone 24/7 is really important,” he said. “And just like anything else, and everybody kind of knows this, but patching your systems, patching your phones, patching your PCs, patching your servers, that’s important.”

Cybersecurity expert Tom McDougall, CEO of Highpoint Networks, Sioux Falls, South Dakota, emphasized the necessity of ongoing education and training for IT professionals to address constantly evolving cyber threats. He pointed out that although tools such as AI and endpoint protection are essential, human error continues to be a major vulnerability.

McDougall said companies need to examine how they back up their information and look for gaps between backups and production sites.

Ransomware is another type of cyberattack that holds an organization’s data hostage until a ransom is paid. McDougall shared an example. This is where having cyber insurance can mean the difference between a business being able to recover its operations or not.

“We had one instance where a company had been infiltrated for several months before a ransom was initiated. But in the forensics component of that, we found that they already knew what their insurance policy was going to pay. They already knew their employee list and their customer list. Let’s say that their limit on liability, from an insurance perspective, was $2 million. How much do you think the ransom was for? Two million dollars,” McDougall said. “We’ve even had instances where companies have been hit more than once, and I suspect that will be more and more often. I really wish these people who are doing that would use their intelligence for something good instead of something bad.”

His final piece of advice – when in doubt, don’t. If there’s a question, ask.

“The three-letter agencies will tell you that more and more people have access to our data. They just don’t know what they’re going to do with it. So we just have to do everything we can to protect ourselves and make sure we have good backups,” he said.

TOM MCDOUGALL

NOMINATIONS for Prairie Business’ annual Leaders & Legacies awards are now being accepted.

The magazine’s Leaders & Legacies awards recognize executives “for the great things they have done in business, whether in recent years (Leaders) or over a lifetime (Legacies),” said Publisher Korrie Wenzel.

Prairie Business is looking for business executives in North Dakota, South Dakota and western Minnesota whose high-level achievements make them truly stand out. Each nomination must include key details of candidate’s business accomplishments, civic leadership and career history.

Recipients of this year’s award will be announced in the July 2025 edition of Prairie Business Magazine

TOGETHER, HIGHER EDUCATION AND INDUSTRY CREATE STRONGER COMMUNITIES

STRONG COMMUNITIES ARE BUILT

THROUGH SHARED PURPOSE AND

BY DR. TIM DOWNS

Every industry sector today navigates workforce challenges, technology shifts, and the need to grow sustainably. That’s why now, more than ever, higher education must step forward — not just as a talent pipeline but as a true partner in our region’s success. As deeply rooted community partners, higher education and industry can become stronger strategic collaborators to promote robust economic, educational, and social advancement. Institutions of higher education are strategic partners committed to serving their communities by helping businesses grow, supporting innovation, and building thriving communities.

GENUINE

PARTNERSHIP

individual attainment, but not necessarily for the greater good.” Colleges and universities must tell the broader story: We are engines of economic development, hubs for new ideas, and connectors across sectors. To fulfill that role, we must keep asking how to work more closely with each other to strengthen our communities.

DEVELOP AUTHENTIC PARTNERSHIPS

We must move beyond transactional interactions toward genuine connections and mutual understanding. Certainly, industry professionals serve on academic program advisory boards to provide insights into current trends and employer needs. However, authentic partnerships require an investment of time and talent on an ongoing basis in both formal and informal environments to build the trust necessary for meaningful longterm collaboration. Our industry councils, local chambers, and economic development corporations can help orchestrate these conversations, but

A 2023 Chronicle of Higher Education public opinion poll reveals an opportunity: “Most people view higher education as an important means for

DR. TIM DOWNS

success comes down to the people in the room — and their willingness to connect, collaborate, and act.

COMMUNICATE FREQUENTLY AND HONESTLY

Developing trustworthy communication between higher education and industry hinges on building genuine connections and mutual understanding. We must share what we are doing and why we are doing it. We need honest conversations about what’s working, what’s not, and where we’re headed. That includes naming the limitations we face and the opportunities we see. It’s how real trust grows. It’s how effective partnerships will better serve our communities.

We must use existing networks more effectively. Let’s host focus groups and working sessions. And let’s talk about shared challenges — like how artificial intelligence is reshaping our classrooms and workplaces — so together we can prepare students and employees for this dynamic shift in how we learn and work.

BUILD STRATEGIC ALLIANCES

As educators, business leaders, and community voices come together to identify our communities’ challenges and opportunities, we can create partnerships with a unified purpose. The workforce development pipelines must include a spectrum of learning opportunities for traditional college students and working professionals. Building a thriving regional economy requires more than producing job-ready graduates. It requires us to align, adapt, and act — together. Higher education and industry must co-create a workforce system that is flexible, future-focused, and accessible:

• Certificate and micro-credential programs to quickly respond to evolving needs.

• Reskilling and upskilling opportunities for career changers and lifelong learners.

• Customized training programs developed in partnership with employers.

• Flexible learning models — in-person, online, or hybrid.

Beyond providing a steady stream of new graduates ready to work or serving on advisory boards to help shape curriculum, higher education and industry can do far more working together.

• Support startups through student-driven projects in areas like market research, business planning, or financial analysis.

• Present findings and research of faculty and students to industry leaders.

• Serve as innovation hubs, allowing companies to set up centers where faculty, students and business professionals can collaborate.

• Provide boot camps to help local businesses grow and adapt to changing markets.

• Sponsor cutting-edge research and test applications in real-world settings.

Strong communities aren’t built in silos — they’re built through shared purpose and genuine partnership. If we want our region to grow, our businesses to thrive, and our students to succeed, we need to keep talking to each other. Let’s show up, listen, and work together — not just as educators or employers but as partners committed to building something better for our region.

SO E WE BUILD CUSTOM

Dr. Tim Downs is the president of Minnesota State University Moorhead.

IN SOME CITIES, LIKE FARGO AND SIOUX FALLS, THE REAL ESTATE MARKET IS TRANSITIONING FROM A HYPER-COMPETITIVE ENVIRONMENT TO A MORE BALANCED MARKET. / COURTESY BERKSHIRE HATHAWAY HOMESERVICES PREMIER PROPERTIES

REAL ESTATE TRENDS IN THE UPPER MIDWEST

BUYERS AND SELLERS ARE

BY ANDREA BORSVOLD

The real estate market in the Upper Midwest — comprising Minnesota, North Dakota and South Dakota — experienced significant shifts in 2024 and continues to be influenced by fluctuating mortgage rates, inflation, and evolving local job markets. While some areas are seeing steady growth, others are feeling the effects of economic challenges. As demand for homes remains strong in some cities, a lack of inventory continues to constrain the market, making it both competitive and complex for buyers and sellers.

NAVIGATING A CHANGING MARKET

improvement in mortgage rates from January to December, as they started at 7%, went down to 6%, and went right back up to 7%,” Feehan explained. This instability has made homebuyers more cautious and hesitant to make moves, especially first-time buyers who may have expected lower rates. Inflation has also driven up costs in the housing sector.

“Inflation has impacted the price to build a home, both in supplies and labor costs. Insurers have increased both their yearly deductibles and annual premiums. County property taxes have gone up to continue to pay for county services,” Feehan added.

These increased costs, along with higher mortgage rates, have made it more expensive to purchase or build homes, further limiting affordable options for buyers.

THE IMPACT OF MORTGAGE RATES AND INFLATION

One of the most notable challenges for homebuyers in 2024 is the volatility of mortgage rates. John Feehan, a mortgage broker with Edge Home Finance in Minnetonka, Minnesota, highlights the inconsistent pattern of interest rates.

“In autumn of 2024, the Fed lowered interest rates, but at the same time mortgage rates went higher, so by the end of the year, we did not see any

HOUSING MARKET STATISTICS IN MINNESOTA, NORTH DAKOTA AND SOUTH DAKOTA

In 2024, median home prices and inventory levels reflect both the challenges and opportunities in the region. According to MNRealtor.com, the median home price in Minnesota as of January 2025 is $330,000, a modest increase of 4.8% from the previous year.

JOHN FEEHAN

In North Dakota, Bankrate.com reported the median home price reached $279,000, marking a massive 7.6% increase year-over-year. Fargo, the state’s largest city, continues to see steady demand due to its strong economy, which is fueled by industries like agriculture, technology, and education.

South Dakota’s median home price in January 2025 stood at $317,000, reflecting a 1.2% increase from 2024, as reported on Bankrate.com. Cities like Sioux Falls and Rapid City remain attractive to buyers due to their relatively lower cost of living compared to other regions.

REGIONAL MARKET DIFFERENCES

While broader trends affect the entire Upper Midwest, local economic conditions are also driving distinct housing market behaviors. In Thief River Falls, Minnesota, the potential closure of a major employer, Textron/Arctic Cat, has had a noticeable impact on housing prices.

collaborate in real time

TRISHA CHAMP

REALTOR WITH ROGUE REAL ESTATE CO. IN BEMIDJI, MINNESOTA

“Our community is navigating a potential closure of a major employer. Changes like this in a local economy can drive the housing market in hyper-local ways, meaning what you hear on the news or see on social media can be very different from your reality in your specific ZIP code,” Trisha Champ, a Realtor with Rogue Real Estate Co., said.

The potential job loss has led to increased housing supply, but with reduced demand, home prices have started to decrease in the area.

“Places where there is a lot of demand and very little housing, you’re going to see those prices hold pretty firm.” Feehan said. “But for example, look at Thief River Falls and the impact of Textron/Arctic Cat leaving that community. As people lose their jobs and move, more houses become available, which drives prices down.”

Conversely, more stable urban areas like Fargo, North Dakota, and Sioux Falls, South Dakota, continue to experience price growth due to strong local economies. Both cities benefit from diverse industries and relatively high job growth, which greatly support the housing market.

THE SHIFT TOWARD A BALANCED MARKET

In some cities, like Fargo and Sioux Falls, the real estate market is transitioning from a hyper-competitive environment to a more balanced market.

“We’re approaching more of a balanced market than we’ve had in previous years, but it’s still more of a seller’s market,” said Katie Johansen, a Realtor with Berkshire Hathaway HomeServices Premier Properties. “Gone are the days when you could throw something with four walls and a roof on the MLS and get 10 offers. Buyers now have more choices, and with higher mortgage rates, they’re being more selective.”

CONTINUED ON PAGE 28

KATIE JOHANSEN

REALTOR WITH BERKSHIRE HATHAWAY HOMESERVICES PREMIER PROPERTIES IN FARGO

REALESTATE

CONTINUED FROM PAGE 27

This shift is also creating new challenges in the entry-level market.

Johansen pointed out that there’s not enough inventory in the first-time homebuyer’s range, such as below $300,000.

“People bought their first home in 2021 with a 3% interest rate,” she said. Usually, by now, they would be moving to a larger home, but with the higher rates, they’re not moving. So we have a lock on those homes, and it’s creating a bottleneck in the market.”

This “lock-in effect,” where homeowners with low-interest mortgages are reluctant to sell and move, is contributing to the ongoing shortage of entry-level homes, further pushing up prices in this segment.

EDUCATING BUYERS FOR LONG-TERM SUCCESS

In Sioux Falls, Larissa Luther, president of the Realtor Association of the Sioux Empire (RASE) and a Realtor with Better Homes and Gardens Real Estate Beyond, stresses the importance of educating buyers on current market conditions.

“Interest rates definitely play a part in any kind of market. Housing is going to continue to increase in price, so even though you don’t want a high interest rate, if you wait a year to buy the same house, your payment

will be the same because the interest rate might be lower, but the house has gone up in value. You have to see what you need for your family and your lifestyle,” Luther said.

Her experience with national advocacy, including her work with the National Association of Realtors (NAR) on initiatives like the More Homes on the Market Act, is also helping to create opportunities for first-time buyers.

“We’re working on changes like offering incentives to owners of investment properties to sell their properties and potential changes to capital gains, which could open up more options for buyers,” Luther said.

COMMERCIAL REAL ESTATE SHIFTS

LARISSA LUTHER

Commercial real estate in the Upper Midwest is also seeing shifts due to changes in work habits and urban development projects. Many businesses are continuing to embrace remote work, leading to reduced demand for office spaces.

CONTINUED ON PAGE 29

“We are not seeing as much return to the workplace post-pandemic. Many businesses are staying with remote work, so that is causing some office space to be repurposed, including creating small storefronts,” Johansen noted.

In Moorhead, Minnesota, a large-scale downtown revitalization project is underway, with plans to replace the old Moorhead Center Mall with a new library, community areas, and both commercial and residential spaces.

“Moorhead has a huge downtown revitalization project, and some of these older buildings are being repurposed rather than building new,” Johansen added.

This trend reflects a broader effort to adapt urban spaces to modern needs, including flexible workspaces and mixed-use developments.

LOOKING AHEAD: 2025 AND BEYOND

The real estate market in Minnesota, North Dakota, and South Dakota is likely to remain influenced by national economic conditions and local factors such as job growth and housing inventory. With mortgage rates expected to stabilize in 2025, the market may see increased movement as buyers and sellers adjust to the

current environment. However, the ongoing lack of inventory in key price segments, especially for first-time buyers, will continue to be a significant challenge.

The Upper Midwest real estate market in 2024 reflects both broader national trends and

the unique dynamics of local economies. As the market adapts to higher mortgage rates, rising costs, and evolving work habits, those looking to buy, sell, or invest must stay focused on local conditions to make the most informed decisions.

Powering connections Driving innovation

GENERATIONNEXT

SADIE OLTMANN

School: Dakota State University

Degree: Bachelor of Business Administration, marketing; minors in entrepreneurial studies and management

Graduation: May 2025

Career Path: Marketing or advertising specialist

I didn’t realize how interesting marketing was until I started taking my classes.

SADIE OLTMANNS ANTICIPATES A CREATIVE CAREER IN MARKETING

DAKOTA STATE UNIVERSITY STUDENT WANTS TO HELP BUSINESSES SUCCEED

BY CARRIE MCDERMOTT

Dakota State University’s strong business program and innovative technology emphasis are what drew Sadie Oltmanns to attend the four-year university in Madison, South Dakota. She’s about to graduate with a Bachelor of Business Administration and has minored in entrepreneurial studies and management.

“The reason I went into this is because one of my good friends from back home is a physician’s recruiter at Avera Health in Mitchell (South Dakota), and I really liked what she did there. I didn’t realize how interesting marketing was until I started taking my classes,” Oltmanns said.

An interest in communication, recruiting and learning about others also helped spur her decision to study marketing. She hopes to become a marketing or advertising specialist. She credits Associate Professor and Undergraduate Coordinator for Business Deb Tech, Ph.D., for teaching her “everything about marketing.” Associate Professor Michael Roach, Ph.D., College of Business

I come from such a small town (Alexandria, South Dakota) that I wanted a small campus to come to

— Sadie Oltmanns

and Information Systems, was also cited as a favorite instructor and mentor for entrepreneurship, leadership and management.

“I was kind of scared of him at first because he’s very blunt. But the more I’ve had classes with him, the more I’ve learned. I’m pretty sure I’m his favorite,” she said, jokingly.

Oltmanns said she learned to emphasize her strengths and to think highly of herself to land the job she wants.

In addition to taking her courses, she’s worked as a teacher’s assistant with I-CORPS, an entrepreneurial training program that helps scientists and engineers commercialize their research. The program is run by the U.S. National Science Foundation.

“It’s basically helping people who don’t know anything about business and want to start their own business,” she said.

She worked as the go-between with the instructor and entrepreneurs, helping them start their business models, creating executive summaries and customer discovery work. Much of the clerical work was her responsibility, such as handling Zoom meetings, creating virtual breakout rooms and proofing slideshow presentations.

Oltmanns interned at Lake Herman State Park as a naturalist, though she says her job duties were more that of a youth program coordinator.

CONTINUED ON PAGE 31

“I would go through and get together what I was going to teach the kids, or what we were going to do for an activity. And then I would give a survey and ask them questions like, OK, if you’re from South Dakota, what did you learn? Did you know this before? And then go in and put it all on the South Dakota state website for the logistics so they kind of knew how many kids were coming and stuff like that. I also ran their Facebook page over the summer, too,” she said.

She appreciates the welcoming atmosphere on the DSU campus, and because it’s a tight-knit school, she felt comfortable. Instructors know their students by name and students are encouraged to reach out to them.

“I come from such a small town (Alexandria, South Dakota) that I wanted a small campus to come to. I didn’t want a big university, like at SDSU, where they’re huge and I wouldn’t know anybody in my classes. I will see my DSU professors and they’ll stop and talk to me. Even professors from my freshman year will still come and talk to me and say ‘hi,’” she said.

Outside of her classes at DSU, Oltmanns has two jobs. She works 20 hours a week at Valiant Living and also works as a youth coordinator at United Methodist Church.

Admitting she wasn’t a serious student in her freshman year, she advises potential DSU students to be diligent about attending classes and

getting homework done on time. Communication with instructors is crucial if a student needs extra time for an assignment, she said.

SADIE OLTMANNS WILL GRADUATE IN MAY 2025 FROM DAKOTA STATE UNIVERSITY WITH A BACHELOR OF BUSINESS ADMINISTRATION DEGREE. / COURTESY DAKOTA STATE UNIVERSITY

DAKOTA STATE UNIVERSITY SENIOR SADIE OLTMANNS WITH HER MENTOR, MIKE ROACH, PH.D., ASSOCIATE PROFESSOR

AND INFORMATION SYSTEMS. / COURTESY DAKOTA STATE UNIVERSITY

ASSESSING YOUR AI READINESS

PREPARING YOUR ORGANIZATION FOR THE NEXT WAVE OF ARTIFICIAL INTELLIGENCE

Many leaders we work with are curious about how to harness the power of AI within their organizations.

There is a wide familiarity with working with Large Language Models (LLMs). This type of artificial intelligence falls under a category we call “tool AI,” meaning it will assist when prompted (sort of like a young child, now that I think about it).

The next wave of AI and its application falls under a different category: Agentic AI. Agentic AI are artificial intelligence systems that can operate autonomously, make decisions, and take actions to achieve specific goals. Here’s what sets them apart: they do this without requiring constant human intervention.

THE FUTURE OF AI

These AI agents can:

• Perceive their environment through data inputs.

• Plan and decide on actions based on objectives.

• Act independently to execute tasks.

• Learn and adapt over time based on feedback.

Essentially, an AI agent is like your dream teenager — self-sufficient, proactive, and able to handle things without constant supervision.

In terms of operating autonomously in your organization, this could look like:

• Performance-based lead qualification AI can analyze leads, score them based on past sales data and your company’s success with similar prospects, and even initiate follow-up — involving a human only when the lead reaches a certain threshold.

• Automated Customer RefundsAI can set criteria based on product details, customer history, and more to issue refunds without using valuable employee time.

BY TRINA MICHELS

• Expanded Service An AI agent can handle multi-step inquiries or even resolve issues across multiple platforms like your CRM, order management, and billing systems.

THE IMPORTANCE OF AN AI STRATEGY

AI in its current and future states are powerful and can drive serious business efficiencies. But just like any other tool, AI is only as good as the strategy you have behind it. It’s tempting to dive in and let your staff build agents to increase efficiency across departments, but ensuring your organization is AI-ready is key – particularly for agentic AI.

Let’s put it into perspective.

Imagine it’s 50 years ago. Susie, your AP clerk, is a skilled at keeping things organized and paying bills on time. She identifies that if someone opened envelopes and sorted things for her, she could process at upwards of 20% efficiency. So, she takes it upon herself to place a want ad and hire someone to do just that. You walk in the door and find a brand-new employee happily helping Susie.

Now, imagine everyone in your company had that same freedom to hire help – you’d wind up with far more staff than you planned for.

As ridiculous as that sounds, it’s exactly what can happen with AI if your company doesn’t have a sound digital labor strategy. You’ll find yourself with an overload of digital agents operating, possibly in a contradictory fashion. Remember: Success begins with assessing your AI readiness.

WHAT IS AI READINESS?

An AI readiness assessment allows you to protect what you’ve built – ensuring compliance and managing risk. It means understanding where your data is collected and stored, taking inventory of your current tools, and evaluating how data is aggregated and learned from. As we tell all our clients, your AI tools are only as good as the data you put into them.

Only after laying this foundation can you begin to see ways to achieve optimal performance by deploying AI capabilities strategically. Skipping these steps could lead to disappointing results from a powerful technology, ultimately affecting your ability to prosper in the future.

AI has the potential to revolutionize the way you work — but only if you approach it thoughtfully and strategically. Let’s make sure your business is ready to embrace the future of technology in a strategic, effective way.

Check your AI readiness with this QR code:

Trina Michels is the Director of Technology Sales at Eide Bailly.

A North Dakota native and single mom of two, she balances leadership, family, and a passion for making a lasting impact. She loves helping businesses drive meaningful outcomes with technology solutions.

PRAIRIEPEOPLE

MARJORIE MASTEN

ESSENTIA HEALTH-32ND AVENUE CLINIC WELCOMES CARDIOLOGY PRACTITIONER

MARJORIE MASTEN

FARGO, N.D. • Marjorie Masten, an advanced practice registered nurse and certified nurse practitioner in cardiology, is excited to join the Essentia Health32nd Avenue Clinic. She has worked with Essentia for over 20 years, most recently as a nurse practitioner in occupational health.

“I was originally drawn to Essentia Health because it had a small-town community feel to it,” Masten said. “I liked that we could offer current high-end treatment in multiple specialties, allowing patients to stay local. While we’ve grown substantially over the years, it still feels like a tight-knit community.”

Masten received her education from the University of Mary in Bismarck and is certified by the American Academy of Nurse Practitioners.

“Cardiac disease impacts all ages, genders and ethnicities and can have multi-system involvement,” Masten said. “I was drawn to interventional cardiology because I could be part of a team that is working on preventing, treating and managing multiple different cardiac conditions that may occur in our community.

“Health care has been my calling since I was in high school. I expect to give the same level of energy and time to each of my patients as I would my own family.”

INTERSTATE ENGINEERING ADDS TEAM MEMBERS

Interstate Engineering is excited to announce the addition of team members, expanding its services across the Great Plains Region.

MANDAN, N.D. • Interstate Engineering is thrilled to announce the expansion of our marketing team and the addition of Angil Koper as our new Marketing Director.

WILLISTON, N.D. • Ed Rintamaki has been hired by Interstate Engineering. He previously owned 49th Latitude Land Survey, LLC, from April 2014 until recently. As the owner, Rintamaki managed all aspects of the business, including marketing, project management, and field surveying. His surveying expertise is in North Dakota and Montana and includes projects ranging from small lot

Koper graduated from Dickinson State University with a bachelor’s degree in Business Administration and has 25 years of marketing experience. She has skills in management, leadership, strategic planning, marketing, content writing, and design. Her knowledge and expertise will make her a valuable addition to the firm.

surveys to large subdivisions and retracement surveys. He has 20 years of experience with ALTA/NSPS, topographic, and construction surveys. Recently, he transitioned to join the team at Interstate Engineering, where he continues to bring his broad expertise and knowledge to new challenges. His experience and knowledge will make him a valuable addition to the firm.

EIDE BAILLY WELCOMES WENDY DEFEO AS CPO

FARGO, N.D. • Eide Bailly is pleased to announce Wendy DeFeo as its chief people officer (CPO). DeFeo joins the firm’s executive management team and will lead the firm’s global talent strategy and function. With a strong people and culture background and U.S. and global human resources experience, she brings knowledge in creating and executing scalable talent strategies that deliver results.

DeFeo has broad industry experience with large professional services companies and private equity-backed businesses and has previously served in human resources leadership roles at Grant Thornton, Kroll, Radius, and Vistra.

“I am thrilled to join Eide Bailly, a firm renowned for its commitment to culture and strategic vision,” said DeFeo. “I look forward to working with the team to create impactful

talent programs that elevate our culture and support our growth goals.”

In her role as chief people officer, DeFeo is responsible for leading all talent strategies and designing an agile organization that can innovate and scale in tandem with the firm’s growth trajectory. She also leads the global human resources and learning functions and is a champion of the firm’s people, their development, and their engagement.

“We are excited to welcome Wendy to the firm,” said Jeremy Hauk, managing partner/CEO at Eide Bailly. “Her deep talent strategy expertise and commitment to culture and the employee experience will be a tremendous asset to Eide Bailly as we navigate our next phase of growth and continue to succeed as a top talent destination.”

WENDY DEFEO

ANGIL KOPER

ED RINTAMAKI

RICK NOVAK JOINS ND CROP IMPROVEMENT AND SEED ASSOCIATION

West Fargo, N.D. • The Board of Directors of the North Dakota Crop Improvement and Seed Association is pleased to announce Rick Novak has joined the organization as Seed Sales and Product Development Advisor. Novak has extensive experience in all aspects of the industry and brings a high level of professionalism and collaboration to the operation.

The Seed Sales and Product Development Advisor is responsible for communication, collaboration, education and sales in service to the NDCISA mission of encouraging the use of quality seed.

“To have a professional with this level of experience and integrity work with us toward our end goal of helping farmers and ranchers of North Dakota, especially young people coming into this business, to have genetics provided by a non profit, is unmatched,” said Board Member Troy Coons.

Novak has vast knowledge of contracts for many growers in the United States and Canada, a deep understanding of seed sales and logistics, strength in seed testing trials and the importance of that data, and a long record of integrity in the industry. He is a North Dakota native and is valued for his communication skills and track record of success.

“I have been working with the seed industry for most of my career and have actual work experience in every aspect of the industry,” Novak said. “I have enjoyed it and have been energized by attitudes and actions of the growers.”

Most recently Novak was Director of Seed Programs in the Department of Soil and Crop Sciences at Colorado State University. Prior to that he was Cereals Production and Supply Chain Manager at Syngenta Seeds in Berthoud, Colo., and Seed Production Specialist at the North Central Research Extension Center in Minot, N.D. He has a Bachelor of Science in soil science from North Dakota State University.

NDCISA is a member-run, non-profit organization that works to improve crop practices and to make top-quality seed readily available for farmers and ranchers. NDCISA works closely with various entities to select varieties best adapted to our region, and in turn provides more profitable seed varieties with the highest agronomic performance. NDCISA is committed to ensuring that public-developed varieties remain available to the public.

ACKERMAN-ESTVOLD PROMOTES ASHLEY HAMMER TO DIRECTOR OF FINANCE

MINOT, N.D. • Ashley Hammer has been promoted to the Director of Finance for the organization. Hammer earned a Bachelor of Science in Business Administration from Minot State University, Minot, North Dakota. She joined the Ackerman-Estvold team in 2016, serving in the role of finance administrator. Her responsibilities, in this new role, will include the oversight of all financial business functions for the whole organization, and she will be located in the Minot office.

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RICK NOVAK

ASHLEY HAMMER

Q.INSIGHTS & INTUITION

Michelle Mongeon Allen

FAIA, LEED AP, CEO

JLG Architects Minneapolis, Minn.

This month we asked: How does your organization develop young leaders?

At JLG Architects, nurturing the development of young leaders is a fundamental core value. Over two decades ago, we embraced a comprehensive approach that includes both internal and external education. JLG has since built development programs and clear career paths for promotion. Our approach consists of structured weekly or bi-weekly coaching sessions, where JLG’s leaders guide emerging talent, share insights, and provide career advice in both group and one-on-one settings. Our specialized training program, JLGdna, focuses on building essential architectural and professional skills, such as communication, decision-making, and strategic thinking. We also invest in Amberbook, a program designed to help young leaders streamline their path to licensure. This includes an ARE exam prep course, study guides, and practice tests — everything needed to pass the NCARB ARE 5.0 and become a licensed architect. More recently, we’ve incorporated LinkedIn Learning to provide access to expert-led course videos that help our emerging leaders discover and develop new skills in business, technology, and creative workflows. Finally, we ensure everyone has a defined career path that aligns with their unique talents, paving the way for growth opportunities, stretch assignments, and internal promotions based on performance and potential. Supporting the development of our young leaders is not only the right thing to do; it’s a commitment essential to the industry, as well as to our growth and resilience as an employee-owned firm.

At the University of North Dakota, students have numerous opportunities to learn about leadership and to develop their individual skills as leaders in action. Through academic courses, experiential learning opportunities and leadership development programs, students gain valuable skills in critical thinking, ethical decision-making, and problem-solving that prepare them for a variety of leadership roles and professional positions. Students can earn a Leadership Minor in the Nistler College of Business and Public Administration. Program courses provide students with opportunities to learn about desired qualities of leaders, to consider the relationships between leaders and followers and to explore the contributions of successful leaders in a variety of fields. Outside the classroom, students have numerous opportunities to develop and apply their leadership skills. By participating in programs such as the 18:83 Speaker Series and the Poolman Leadership Academy, students can engage with and learn from faculty, staff, alumni and community leaders. Through involvement in internships, student government, study abroad, campus employment, community service initiatives, and student organizations, students can gain hands-on, practical experiences that enhance their communication, teamwork and organizational skills. Regardless of their major or intended career field, UND offers students numerous opportunities to engage in curricular and co-curricular leadership development experiences that foster cultural competency, civic responsibility and personal development. By engaging in experiences that bridge academic knowledge with real-world application, students are equipped to make meaningful contributions as leaders in their communities and professional environments long after they graduate from UND.

Cassie Gerhardt Senior Associate Vice President, Student Affairs University of North Dakota Grand Forks, N.D.

At Brady Martz & Associates, we take pride in developing young leaders and preparing them for longterm success. Our largest hiring pipeline comes from our internship programs and new graduate associates, and our goal is to foster their growth into future partners. We follow a three-pillar framework for talent development: technical ability, coaching and mentorship, and learning by doing. Through structured programs and intentional leadership opportunities, we equip young professionals with the skills and confidence to develop and grow. Our coaching and mentorship programs connect new associates with experienced team members who provide guidance, career advice, and feedback to refine their technical skills. We coach using a structured skills matrix and competency framework, helping young professionals navigate their growth path effectively. The third pillar—learning by doing exposes young professionals to a variety of engagements, industries, and leadership roles—such as managing projects, mentoring interns, and presenting to clients—building confidence, accountability, and decision-making abilities early in their careers. We encourage CPA certification by offering financial incentives. Additionally, Brady Martz University strengthens our leadership pipeline by providing training in leadership, communication, and professional success skills. Beyond leadership development, we invest heavily in technical excellence. Our firm leaders design and deliver specialized internal training, ensuring our team stays at the forefront of industry standards. By integrating mentorship, coaching, hands-on experiences, and structured learning, we cultivate a strong pipeline of future leaders—ensuring continued growth and excellence at Brady Martz.

Cill Skabo

Chief Growth Officer

Bravera Dickinson, N.D.

At Bravera, we believe investing in young leaders is key to our long-term success. Career development is at the heart of how we cultivate leadership, ensuring emerging professionals gain the skills, confidence, and opportunities to grow. We take a personalized approach by identifying what motivates young professionals and aligning their interests with meaningful development opportunities. By delegating tasks beyond their typical responsibilities, we empower them to take on challenges, build new skills, and gain leadership experience. This enhances job satisfaction, strengthens retention, and opens doors for advancement. Bravera fosters leadership growth through structured programs such as mentorship, internships, and tuition reimbursement. Leadership actively identifies employees with high potential and provides them with opportunities to develop and advance. We use performance reviews to assess strengths, create development plans with clear goals, and encourage continuous learning to stay ahead in a changing industry. A key part of this growth is empowering young professionals to take ownership while ensuring they have supervisor support. We give them the confidence to make decisions, solve problems, and lead, knowing mentorship and resources are always available. Mentorship plays a crucial role in this journey. We pair young professionals with experienced mentors who provide feedback, networking opportunities, and career guidance. Our internship program also introduces fresh talent to real-world experiences, helping them build skills, expand networks, and transition into full-time roles. At Bravera, leadership development fosters a culture of growth, empowerment, and lifelong learning, ensuring young leaders are equipped to drive success well into the future.

Emily Myrum

Chief Talent Officer

Brady Martz & Associates

Grand Forks, N.D.

BYTHENUMBERS

PRODUCER PRICE INDEX UNCHANGED FOR FEBRUARY

The Producer Price Index for final demand was unchanged in February, seasonally adjusted, the U.S. Bureau of Labor Statistics reported. Final demand prices rose 0.6% in January and 0.5% in December 2024. In February, a 0.3% increase in prices for final demand goods offset a 0.2% decline in the index for final demand services. The index for final demand less foods, energy, and trade services moved up 0.2% in February after rising 0.3% in January. For the 12 months ended in February, prices for final demand less foods, energy, and trade services advanced 3.3%.

12-MONTH PERCENTAGE CHANGE, CONSUMER PRICE INDEX, SELECTED CATEGORIES

The Consumer Price Index for All Urban Consumers (CPI-U) increased 0.2% on a seasonally adjusted basis in February, after rising 0.5% in January, the U.S. Bureau of Labor Statistics reported. Over the last 12 months, the all items index increased 2.8% before seasonal adjustment. The index for shelter rose 0.3% in February, accounting for nearly half of the monthly all items increase. The energy index rose 0.2% over the month as the indexes for electricity and natural gas increased. The index for food also increased in February, rising 0.2% as the index for food away from home increased 0.4%. The food at home index was unchanged over the month.

Source: U.S. Bureau of Labor Statistics

EMPLOYMENT CHANGE BY INDUSTRY, FEBRUARY 2025, SEASONALLY ADJUSTED

Total nonfarm payroll employment rose by 151,000 in February, similar to the average monthly gain of 168,000 over the prior 12 months. In February, employment trended up in health care, financial activities, transportation and warehousing, and social assistance. Federal government employment declined.

EMPLOYMENT AND AVERAGE HOURLY EARNINGS BY INDUSTRY

Real average hourly earnings for all employees increased 0.1% from January to February, seasonally adjusted. This result stems from an increase of 0.3% in average hourly earnings combined with an increase of 0.2% in the Consumer Price Index for All Urban Consumers (CPI-U).

represents employement level in

In today’s rapidly evolving construction industr y, accurate accounting practices and financial management are crucial for sustainable grow th and

At B rady M ar t z , we underst and t he unique challenge s faced by const r uction busine sse s , and we provide t ailored accounting solutions t hat empower our client s to t hrive in a competitive m arket place

With a history dating back almost a century, our team of over 400 professionals, including more than 50 shareholders, is dedicated to making a difference in the lives of others. We leverage our strength as a community-based firm utilizing our time, talent, and financial resources to enhance the communities in which we live and serve.

The construction industry is no stranger to financial complexities. Project budgets, cost tracking, payroll management, tax compliance, and cash flow optimization are just a few of the challenges faced by construction businesses. We believe in the power of personalized solutions. At Brady Martz, we offer a comprehensive range of accounting and consulting services specifically tailored to the needs of construction companies. Our team of experienced accountants possesses in-depth knowledge of the industry, enabling us to deliver accurate, reliable, and timely financial services and solutions.

Prairie Business April 2025

Ookla gave Midco internet top marks!

EVERY SEASON

Equipped to Meet Future Needs

TABLEOFCONTENTS

EDITOR’SNOTE

CARRIE MCDERMOTT EDITOR

SOME OF THE DAILY PRODUCTS WE USE COME FROM UNIVERSITY RESEARCH

25 YEARS Of Prairie Business:

BILL GATES

WAS FEATURED ON THE COVER OF THE JUNE 2013 ISSUE OF PRAIRIE BUSINESS. / PRAIRIE BUSINESS

Industry leaders talk philanthropy, entrepreneurship

BILL GATES, DOUG BURGUM FEATURED AT FARGO EVENTS IN 2013

WANZEK NAMED CHIEF INVESTMENT OFFICER, SWEENEY CHIEF ECONOMIC STRATEGIST AT BELL BANK

KRAUS-ANDERSON BEGINS RENOVATIONS AT VETERANS MEMORIAL ARENA IN WEST FARGO

HOW A DEALER PORTAL CAN IMPROVE YOUR BUSINESS OPERATIONS

HIGHEREDUCATION

CUTTING-EDGE RESEARCH AT REGION’S UNIVERSITIES IMPACTS OUR DAILY LIVES

HIGHER EDUCATION PARTNERSHIPS WITH COMPANIES IMPROVE PRODUCTS, CREATE A HIGHLY SKILLED WORKFORCE

HIGHEREDUCATION

NORTH DAKOTA STATE UNIVERSITY

SOUTH DAKOTA STATE UNIVERSITY

DANIEL SCHOLL

HIGHEREDUCATION

UNIVERSITY OF MINNESOTA

JOONHYUNG CHO

BUILDING GREAT COMMUNITIES

CYBERSECURITY EXPERTS WEIGH IN ON CRUCIAL PROTECTIONS FOR BUSINESSES ORGANIZATIONS MUST ADOPT A TECHNOLOGY MINDSET TO PROTECT AGAINST CYBER THREATS

TECHNOLOGY

SCOTT KAYLOR

TOGETHER, HIGHER EDUCATION AND INDUSTRY CREATE STRONGER COMMUNITIES

STRONG COMMUNITIES ARE BUILT

THROUGH SHARED PURPOSE AND

GENUINE

PARTNERSHIP

DEVELOP AUTHENTIC PARTNERSHIPS

COMMUNICATE FREQUENTLY AND HONESTLY

BUILD STRATEGIC ALLIANCES

SO E WE BUILD CUSTOM

REAL ESTATE TRENDS IN THE UPPER MIDWEST

BUYERS AND SELLERS ARE

NAVIGATING A CHANGING MARKET

THE IMPACT OF MORTGAGE RATES AND INFLATION

HOUSING MARKET STATISTICS IN MINNESOTA, NORTH DAKOTA AND SOUTH DAKOTA

REGIONAL MARKET DIFFERENCES

TRISHA CHAMP

THE SHIFT TOWARD A BALANCED MARKET

KATIE JOHANSEN

REALESTATE

EDUCATING BUYERS FOR LONG-TERM SUCCESS

COMMERCIAL REAL ESTATE SHIFTS

LARISSA LUTHER

LOOKING AHEAD: 2025 AND BEYOND

Powering connections Driving innovation

GENERATIONNEXT

SADIE OLTMANN

SADIE OLTMANNS ANTICIPATES A CREATIVE CAREER IN MARKETING

DAKOTA STATE UNIVERSITY STUDENT WANTS TO HELP BUSINESSES SUCCEED

ASSESSING YOUR AI READINESS

PREPARING YOUR ORGANIZATION FOR THE NEXT WAVE OF ARTIFICIAL INTELLIGENCE

THE FUTURE OF AI

THE IMPORTANCE OF AN AI STRATEGY

WHAT IS AI READINESS?

PRAIRIEPEOPLE

MARJORIE MASTEN

ESSENTIA HEALTH-32ND AVENUE CLINIC WELCOMES CARDIOLOGY PRACTITIONER

MARJORIE MASTEN

INTERSTATE ENGINEERING ADDS TEAM MEMBERS

EIDE BAILLY WELCOMES WENDY DEFEO AS CPO

RICK NOVAK JOINS ND CROP IMPROVEMENT AND SEED ASSOCIATION

ACKERMAN-ESTVOLD PROMOTES ASHLEY HAMMER TO DIRECTOR OF FINANCE

Q.INSIGHTS & INTUITION

BYTHENUMBERS

PRODUCER PRICE INDEX UNCHANGED FOR FEBRUARY

12-MONTH PERCENTAGE CHANGE, CONSUMER PRICE INDEX, SELECTED CATEGORIES

EMPLOYMENT CHANGE BY INDUSTRY, FEBRUARY 2025, SEASONALLY ADJUSTED

EMPLOYMENT AND AVERAGE HOURLY EARNINGS BY INDUSTRY