A record 375 people attended the event hosted by the Chamber in partnership with GFAFB. The message was clear that GFAFB continues to play a vital role in our nation’s security.

Grand Forks, ND (July 27, 2026) – Golden Path Solutions and The Chamber – Grand Forks/East Grand Forks are partnering to support regional employers with future workforce development while also driving hands-on career experiences for regional high school and college students. The effort builds on the impactful work already underway through the Career Impact Academy and other programming. The collaboration will foster additional connections between students and employers through Golden Path’s innovative online platform, Compass, by supporting career exploration and planning, internship opportunities, and more. Golden Path and The Chamber are dedicated to building excitement and engagement around future workforce development by helping students and employers find each other based on skills, interests, and talents. These connections also help students make key decisions about their future careers and education. “We’re excited to further build these key connections between employers and students – in high school and college,” said Patrick Mineer, Founder and CEO of Golden Path Solutions . “By working together, our organizations can support more employers in creating meaningful ways to engage future talent, while at the same time introducing students to the amazing employers and careers available in the Grand Forks and East Grand Forks region.” The Chamber and Golden Path collaboration will provide increased outreach to employers, guidance and resources to strengthen workforce strategies, preferred pricing on Golden Path employer memberships, and more. "One of The Chamber's most important responsibilities is connecting our members with the talent that will drive our region's future,” says Barry Wilfahrt, President and CEO of The Chamber – Grand Forks/East Grand Forks . “By helping Chamber members understand what Compass is and offering preferred pricing on Golden Path advanced memberships, we're making it easier than ever to inspire young people, build relationships, and strengthen our local workforce pipeline." The collaboration stretches beyond the two organizations by supporting wider workforce development efforts, including those driven by the Grand Forks Region Economic Development Corporation (EDC). “The Grand Forks region has achieved meaningful success over more than a decade in retaining young people, thanks to the efforts of committed leaders and organizations,” says Grand Forks Region EDC President and CEO Keith Lund . “Golden Path Solutions will build on that momentum, adding fuel to the region’s success and helping more students find rewarding careers in the Grand Forks region.” Grand Forks Public Schools and East Grand Forks Public Schools are already active in Compass, and students at the University of North Dakota will soon gain access thanks to a grant received by the North Dakota University System (NDUS). Numerous regional employers are currently using the platform to highlight their companies, careers, and opportunities. Their reach extends to all North Dakota middle school, high school, and NDUS students. The Chamber and Golden Path partnership aims to expand and enhance these connections, while also welcoming additional employers into Compass. Eric Ripley, Executive Director of CTE & Technology at Grand Forks Public Schools , looks forward to providing even more career opportunities for students. “By embedding career alignment early in our students' educational journeys, we are not only helping them discover their interests and passions but also connecting them directly with regional employers,” Ripley says. “This collaboration strengthens our workforce pipeline and ensures our high school graduates are aware of their future employment opportunities right here in the Grand Forks region.” In addition, regional and state programs can help employers cover wages for paid student opportunities. Intern GF through the Grand Forks Region EDC can provide up to $3,500 for an intern’s salary and Job Service North Dakota can cover wages and workers’ compensation for up to 25 hours per week for eligible youth working for employers in the state. The Chamber – Grand Forks/East Grand Forks creates an environment that encourages business success while enhancing the quality of life in the region. With business, non-profit, and individual members, The Chamber seeks solutions for community-wide concerns, drives momentum, and advocates for growth. You can reach The Chamber at info@gochamber.org. Golden Path Solutions is a software and services company in Fargo, ND, that connects students, employers, schools, and communities to create meaningful career exploration and build future workforce. Learn more at www.goldenpath.net or contact info@goldenpath.net. Media Inquiries: Patrick Mineer Barry Wilfahrt Founder and CEO President and CEO Golden Path Solutions The Chamber – Grand Forks/East Grand Forks patrick@goldenpath.net barry@gochamber.org 701-866-2620 701-772-7271