03.21.25

Hoeven: High-Tech Missions Boost Economic Growth in North Dakota, Highlight Need for STEM Education

Senator Outlines Efforts with North Dakota Space Grant Consortium in Bismarck

BISMARCK, N.D. – Senator John Hoeven met with members of the North Dakota Space Grant Consortium (NDSGC) to discuss efforts to expand science, technology, engineering, and mathematics (STEM) education opportunities for students. The senator highlighted his longstanding support for the Space Grant program, which provides fellowships and scholarships to help students pursue high-tech careers, while also strengthening North Dakota’s position as a leader in space research and technology. Additionally, Hoeven emphasized the state’s growing high-tech missions and strong technology sector, which he has worked to advance through initiatives such as:

  • The Space Development Agency’s low-Earth orbit (LEO) satellite mission in Grand Forks, positioning North Dakota as a leader in new space operations and at the center of future U.S. military communications.
  • The Sky Range program, which uses modified Global Hawks, called Range Hawks, based at GrandSKY for hypersonic missile testing.

The senator stressed how bringing such operations to North Dakota helps attract companies like BlueHalo, creating high-paying tech jobs in aerospace, defense, and cybersecurity, meeting military needs and boosting the state’s economy. Earlier this week, Hoeven announced that BlueHalo was expanding its operations to the Grand Forks region, building upon the partnership that Hoeven worked to fund between the company and Bismarck State College.

“The Space Grant Consortium provides valuable opportunities for North Dakota students to gain hands-on experience in space science and technology,” said Hoeven. “As a member of the Senate Appropriations Committee, I will continue supporting the Space Grant program, which has allowed students to intern at NASA’s research centers and contribute to space-related research. We've worked to secure North Dakota's role in cutting-edge missions like the LEO satellite mission, and we need a workforce that can sustain such operations long term. This program, along with our focus on UAS and satellite technology, helps cultivate the next generation of STEM leaders and innovators."

As a member of the Senate, Hoeven has focused on securing resources to help students prepare for careers in industries that will play a vital role in shaping the future economy of both the state and the nation. To achieve this, the senator is working to expand access to STEM education, including by:

  • Supporting the Student Support and Academic Enrichment program, which allows school districts to enhance their capacity for STEM education.
  • Cosponsoring and advocating for legislation to expand the National Science Foundation's STEM education initiatives for young children, including the establishment of new research grants aimed at increasing girls' participation in computer science.

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