Fenner named chair of the Dakota Digital Academy/TechND Workforce Advisory Committee
MINOT, N.D. – Minot State University Professor of Business Information Technology Chad Fenner was recently appointed to be the chair of the Dakota Digital Academy/TechND Workforce Advisory Committee.
Fenner’s service on the committee will help connect the changing technological needs of the workforce to the programs students need for their future careers.
“In this capacity, Chad will be in a unique position to forge digital and cyber educational needs with current and future workforce needs. These areas of expertise and knowledge will be imperative as he leads a group that is engaged on innovative solutions and creative ideas,” said Mark Hagerott, chancellor of the North Dakota University System.
The Dakota Digital Academy (DDA) is a North Dakota University System initiative that collaboratively leverages digital-cyber oriented education, training, and knowledge across all 11 institutions of the NDUS. The Technology Council of North Dakota (TechND) represents software developers, telecommunications companies, internet providers and content developers, system integrators, educational institutions, state agencies, and manufacturers across North Dakota.
“The mission of TechND and the DDA are closely aligned,” said Terry Effertz, executive director of TechND. “The committee combines the strengths of education and workforce needs.”
TechND was founded in 2000 by North Dakota business, government, and education leaders to promote the use, growth, and development of technology in the state. With the rapid emergence of things like artificial intelligence and the metaverse, this committee has the ability to impact change in the digital realm and to provide focus on what areas of study are need for the future of higher education.
“This is a great opportunity to build on the digital and cyber strengths of the NDUS with a direct link to the workforce needs across North Dakota,” Fenner said. “It’s a perfect, synergistic opportunity.”
About NDUS
The North Dakota University System is a unified system of higher education governed by the State Board of Higher Education. Organized in 1990, the system includes two research universities, four regional universities and five community colleges.
The mission of the State Board of Higher Education and the Chancellor of the North Dakota University System is to unleash the potential of higher education in the state to enhance the quality of life, and the social and economic vitality of all served by its public colleges and universities.
About Minot State University
Minot State University is a public university dedicated to excellence in education, scholarship, and community engagement achieved through
rigorous academic experiences, active learning environments, commitment to public service, and a vibrant campus life.
Published: 10/17/23
