NDSU launches “Bison to the Bakken” travel course to immerse students in N.D. energy sector
By M.K. French
Farmer Staff Writer
North Dakota State University (NDSU) is launching an innovative course designed to connect students with the state’s dynamic energy sector. The 3-credit course, titled “Bison to the Bakken,” will offer undergraduate students from various disciplines a unique opportunity to explore North Dakota’s energy industry.
According to Tom DeSutter, a professor in the School of Natural Resource Sciences at NDSU and one of the course organizers, “Bison to the Bakken” will begin on May 18, and include a 12-day travel experience from May 19-30, 2025. The course aims to educate students about North Dakota state government operations, regulation, and economic development, with a focus on the energy resources produced within the state and their importance to the state’s economy.
The course is structured to provide experiential learning, combining pre-trip coursework with on-site visits and interactions with industry professionals. Students will engage with topics across business, engineering, and agriculture, including supply chain management, automation, soil science, and commodity trading.
During the trip, students will travel across North Dakota, including a visit to Watford City from the evening of May 21 to midday on May 23. In Watford City, students will meet with Chord, ONEOK, and the McKenzie County Economic Development team at the Bakken Skills Center.
The syllabus details that students will participate in tours, discussions, and activities, and will be required to complete assignments such as a portfolio and response cards based on the book “Game Changer” by Harold Hamm.
The “Bison to the Bakken” program seeks to address workforce development needs in North Dakota’s energy sector by connecting potential talent with industry leaders. As the NDSU Foundation states, the program aims to “connect prospective talent and industry professionals in North Dakota’s energy sector” and “provide students with hands-on learning opportunities and social and cultural experiences in western North Dakota.”
NDSU is actively seeking funding partners to support the “Bison to the Bakken” course and ensure its accessibility to students. For more information, contact Tom DeSutter at thomas.desutter@ndsu.edu.
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