Dr. Brooke Thiel, NDSU; Carmel Miller, NDSU Extension; Chandler Gramm, Next Gen AgThis episode dives into the future of the agtech workforce, a critical topic for the Fargo-Moorhead region and beyond. The conversation explores how technology is reshaping agriculture, the workforce skills needed today and tomorrow, and the role of education, research and partnerships in preparing the next generation.

From workforce shortages and rural revitalization to career exposure for young people, technology adoption, and the groundbreaking NSF AgTech Engine, the discussion highlights how collaboration and innovation are driving agriculture forward. Listeners will gain a clearer picture of both the challenges and the opportunities that lie ahead, and how our region is stepping up to lead.

Casondra Duckworth, Jeremiah Program; Victoria Konidaris, Legal Services ND; Kevin Bauer, AgWeek; Setareh Campion, The Chamber.Five voices, one mission: to show how The Chamber’s Young Professionals Network (YPN) is transforming careers and community. In this roundtable conversation, area professionals share what YPN has meant in their own journeys, from finding belonging and building confidence to stepping into leadership roles.The discussion highlights the upcoming YP Summit on October 8 at the Hilton Garden Inn, featuring keynote speakers and various breakout sessions on artificial intelligence, nonprofit board service, impostor syndrome, and more. The group reflects on major wins from last year’s event, what’s new in 2025, and why this Summit is the can’t-miss opportunity for connection, growth, and inspiration.Whether you’re new to the region or already climbing the career ladder, this episode is your inside track on how YPN can help you sharpen your skills, expand your circle and find your place in a thriving community.

Jason Benson, Executive Director, Metro Flood Diversion Authority; Tony Grindberg, Cass County Commissioner, Metro Flood Diversion Authority Board Chair.The FM Area Diversion is the largest infrastructure project in our region’s history, designed to protect more than 260,000 people from catastrophic flooding. In this episode, Metro Flood Diversion Authority leaders join the conversation to share how this once-in-a-generation project is being built, and why it matters.From the devastating floods of 1997 and 2009 to today’s groundbreaking engineering and innovative public-private partnerships, the discussion explores the scale of the project and the vision behind it. Jason and Tony walk through the technical feats of the 30-mile diversion channel, the financial model that makes it possible, and the lasting benefits for safety, housing, business, and economic growth.Listeners will also hear about the challenges that remain, the workforce needed to get the job done, and what comes next as the Fargo-Moorhead region takes bold steps toward a more resilient future.

Featuring Joe Raso, President and CEO, Greater Fargo Moorhead Economic Development Corporation and Shannon Full, President and CEO, The Chamber.This episode of The Chamber Link dives into Innovate28, a bold and collaborative plan designed to accelerate the region’s workforce, business growth, and public policy progress by 2029.From ambitious goals like growing the labor force by 12,000 individuals and adding a billion dollars in annual regional sales, to behind-the-scenes wins such as attracting Amazon’s distribution center, this discussion explores the strategies and partnerships driving real change. Topics include major workforce efforts, business growth and vitality, public policy influence, civic engagement and the importance of cross-sector collaboration in keeping the region competitive nationwide.Whether you are a local leader, business owner or simply curious about the future of our region, this episode offers insight, inspiration and a clear roadmap for growth.

Featuring Dilworth Mayor Chad Olson and Peyton Mastera, City Administrator, City of Dilworth.This episode explores the growth and future of Dilworth, Minnesota, from a new community center and expanding residential neighborhoods to the redevelopment of the rail district and the transformation of Highway 10. Strategic planning, strong partnerships, and a commitment to honoring the city’s history are helping shape one of the region’s most dynamic small cities.The conversation blends vision, history, and practical action, reflecting the belief that a community’s success comes from consistent care and investment. For years, Dilworth has embraced opportunities to create a more connected and vibrant place to live, work and visit, showing how steady attention to the right details can help a city thrive.Whether you are a Dilworth resident, a regional leader, or simply curious about smart city growth, this episode offers insight, inspiration, and a clear look at what it takes to nurture lasting progress.

Featuring Joe Sandin, President and Founder, OnSharp; and Kelly Mortensen, Founder, Digital Plains.In this episode, the group discusses the opportunities and risks that artificial intelligence presents for today’s businesses, covering everything from AI as a powerful productivity tool to the growing cybersecurity threats that too many companies overlook.Listeners will gain insight into why Kelly’s mantra, “Your Business Will Get Hacked,” is a reality leaders must prepare for, as well as practical strategies for safeguarding data and leveraging AI responsibly. Joe also shares valuable perspectives as the president and founder of OnSharp, offering a firsthand look at how AI is transforming client portals, user experiences, and strategies for businesses of all sizes. The conversation also highlights the upcoming Midwest Tech Summit and what business leaders should understand about AI before falling behind.This episode offers a clear-eyed look at the future of technology, combining caution with optimism and equipping you with strategies to stay ahead.

Featuring Moorhead Mayor Shelly Carlson; Derrick LaPoint, Downtown Moorhead Inc.; and Stacia Sytsma, Moorhead Business Association.This episode explores Moorhead’s transformation, from billion-dollar investments in sustainable aviation fuel to the reimagining of the downtown mall as a vibrant, mixed-use community space. The conversation highlights the city’s five-year vision for revitalization, housing solutions, major infrastructure projects like the long-awaited underpass, and tax incentives driving growth. Listeners will also hear how partnerships between the city, businesses and the community are positioning Moorhead as one of Minnesota’s emerging destinations, plus a preview of a new networking series for nonprofits launching this fall.

Featuring N.D. Senator Kristin Roers; Minn. Representative Jim Joy; and Cale Dunwoody, The Chamber.This episode explores the 2025 legislative sessions in Minnesota and North Dakota, with the guests unpacking key issues shaping our region, from property tax relief and paid family leave mandates to water infrastructure projects, workforce strategies and the broader economic implications for businesses on both sides of the river. Senator Roers shares her perspective on North Dakota’s Republican supermajority and the state’s focus on tax reform, while Rep. Joy provides insight into Minnesota’s legislature and what certain outcomes mean for Clay County’s competitiveness. Cale connects these discussions to The Chamber’s public policy work, highlighting how state-level policy decisions impact local business growth and community development.