Celebrating Innovation and Opportunities: Manufacturing Month in Devils Lake, North Dakota

Manufacturing jobs have long carried a certain stigma—images of monotonous tasks in dirty, dark, and dangerous environments come to mind. However, the reality of modern manufacturing in 2023 is a far cry from these stereotypes. It's a world of cutting-edge technologies, innovation, and a demand for skilled problem solvers. Devils Lake, North Dakota, is at the forefront of this transformation, with manufacturing companies embracing the latest technologies and materials to produce innovative goods. As Manufacturing Month kicks off on October 6, we celebrate the employment opportunities and economic growth generated by these companies.

Modern Manufacturing: A World of Opportunities

Manufacturing Day begins on October 6 and serves as a platform to debunk misconceptions about modern manufacturing careers. It encourages companies and educational institutions nationwide to open their doors to students, parents, teachers, and community leaders. Today's manufacturing roles are brimming with exciting prospects, personal advancement, and job stability.

Chad Moutray, Chief Economist at the National Association of Manufacturers (NAM), emphasized in a 2023 Industry Outlook article that there's no such thing as a low-skilled job in manufacturing anymore. These roles integrate cutting-edge technologies like artificial intelligence, cloud computing, and robotics into processes, emphasizing quality control and problem-solving. Sustainability is also a growing focus, aligning production methods with environmental concerns.

Devils Lake's Diverse Economic Landscape

Devils Lake's business community encompasses a range of industries, employing nearly 4,000 people. According to DATAUSA, the largest industries in the area are Accommodation & Food Services, Health Care & Social Assistance, and Retail Trade. The tourism industry, driven by the lake's popularity among anglers from the Midwest, plays a pivotal role, with 967 jobs in Ramsey County attributed to travel and tourism, as per a 2018 study by Oxford Economics Company.

Advantages for Manufacturing Companies in Devils Lake

Devils Lake offers several compelling advantages to national and global manufacturing companies. Among them is robust broadband connectivity, with North Dakota boasting the best broadband connectivity in the United States. The state's abundant natural gas supply and cost-effective delivery infrastructure contribute to the country's lowest residential and industrial natural gas rates.

Water availability and treatment are also primarily provided by the Greater Ramsey Water District. Devils Lake's transportation access is a crucial advantage, with proximity to major markets throughout the country via road, rail, and air. The area's strategic location on Hwy 2, with easy access to I-29 and Highway 281, makes it an ideal industry hub.

Devils Lake serves as a regional center for daily life within a 60-mile radius, drawing workers, shoppers, and healthcare patients to local businesses.

Expanding Opportunities in Agriculture

Agriculture is a cornerstone of North Dakota's economy, with over 90% of the state's land dedicated to this sector. Devils Lake mirrors this trend, being a leading producer of various agricultural products such as pinto beans, navy beans, flaxseed, spring wheat, oats, honey, dry edible peas, durum, and canola.

Value-added agriculture is a focus in Devils Lake, with natural and organic companies thriving by sourcing products locally from the surrounding agricultural community. A notable success story is CoJack Snack and Pack LLC, a 125,000 square-foot facility that processes edible beans, popcorn, and other snacks for nationwide distribution. 

Leaders in Innovation

Devils Lake is proud to be home to manufacturers who combine the latest technology with good workplace practices to produce high-quality products and consistently foster innovation. These companies are driving economic growth and helping to shape the future of manufacturing.
In conclusion, Devils Lake, North Dakota, is not only shedding old stereotypes about manufacturing but also leading the charge in embracing modern manufacturing's potential. As Manufacturing Month unfolds, it's a time to celebrate the city's manufacturing prowess, economic contributions, and commitment to innovation in the heart of North Dakota.

Showcase your Manufacturing Operation

Manufacturing Day is an opportunity to help your community become more familiar with the possibilities present at your company. Hosting an event helps highlight the reality of modern manufacturing careers to your future workforce and those who can assist your development - students, parents, teachers, and community leaders. Utilize the Manufacturing Institute’s toolkit to help plan tours, send invitations, and develop promotions. We understand the vital importance manufacturing has in Devils Lake. Contact us today to learn more about manufacturing opportunities!