Williston Faces Workforce Challenges Due to High Cost of Living and Oil Industry Competition

The Higher Education Institutions Committee of the North Dakota Legislature convened on August 22, 2025, to address pressing issues affecting higher education in the state, particularly in relation to workforce challenges and the impact of the oil and gas industry on local economies.

The meeting began with a discussion led by President Herning of Williston State College, who highlighted the significant wage disparities between the oil and gas sector and educational institutions. He noted that while oil and gas jobs offer substantially higher wages, they also create challenges for attracting talent to higher education roles. Many potential candidates are deterred by the cost of living in Williston, which is elevated compared to other regions, despite offering competitive salaries.

Herning shared an example of a candidate from Chicago who declined a vice president position due to the high cost of living in Williston, despite the offered salary being higher than his previous earnings. This situation underscores the broader issue of affordability for families considering relocation to the area, particularly concerning housing and childcare costs. He pointed out that childcare expenses in Williams County are among the highest in the state, further complicating the ability of young families to work in the region.

The committee also discussed the challenge of finding qualified local employees with the necessary knowledge and experience in higher education. With the nearest institutions located hours away, the local workforce lacks the expertise required for many positions, necessitating extensive training for new hires.

Senator Beckettall reinforced these points, emphasizing the lack of workforce diversification in Williston, where approximately 70% of employment is tied to the oil and gas industry. He contrasted this with other cities like Dickinson and Minot, which have more varied economic bases. Beckettall pointed out that the state's employment classification system does not account for the cost of living differences, leading to staffing shortages in oilfield areas like Williston.

The meeting concluded with a consensus on the need for targeted strategies to address these workforce challenges, including potential adjustments to compensation structures that reflect local living costs. The committee plans to continue exploring solutions to enhance recruitment and retention in higher education institutions across North Dakota.