Grand Forks Career Impact Academy expands access to technical education programs

The North Dakota House Appropriations Committee's Education and Environment Division meeting on March 21, 2025, highlighted significant advancements in career and technical education (CTE) in the Grand Forks region. A key focus was the development of the new Career Impact Academy, which aims to address the growing demand for health sciences and other vocational programs.

Eric Ripley, Executive Director for Career Technical Education at the Grand Forks Public School District, reported that the academy will expand access to high-quality CTE for students across seven surrounding school districts, including Hatton, Northwood, and Larimore. This initiative comes in response to the pressing need for skilled workers in various industries, particularly health sciences, where the district has previously had to turn away students due to lack of space.

The Career Impact Academy is expected to accommodate over 100 additional students in its health sciences program for the upcoming school year, with 427 already registered. This expansion will not only alleviate overcrowding but also introduce new programs in manufacturing and culinary arts, which have been identified as critical areas for workforce development.

Ripley emphasized the importance of collaboration among districts to effectively deliver specialized programs, noting that many smaller communities struggle to provide adequate CTE offerings due to a shortage of instructors and resources. The center model aims to consolidate efforts and enhance educational opportunities for students interested in pursuing careers in high-demand fields.

The meeting also underscored the need for increased awareness and exposure to various career paths at an early age. Ripley advocated for a shift in mindset regarding post-secondary education, encouraging students to consider a range of options beyond traditional four-year degrees, including certificates, associate degrees, apprenticeships, and on-the-job training.

As the Career Impact Academy prepares to open, it represents a significant step forward in meeting the educational and workforce needs of the Grand Forks community and surrounding areas, ensuring that students are better equipped for their future careers.