Specifications include, but are not limited to: Bismarck State College (BSC) is soliciting proposals from workforce and economic development consulting firms that specialize in developing public and private partnerships (P3s) between higher education and the private sector that is designed to align workforce and economic development programs with the needs of the North Dakota economy. BSC has five pillars of academic focus of which energy has seen significant 10-year decline. As a result, BSC is soliciting workforce and economic development consulting services to meet the needs of North Dakota workforce, in general, and giving particular focus to the energy sector. The 24-month contract will run from February 1, 2024 - January 31, 2026, with an annual renewal option of up to two years. The proposal has five components: Identify new and advance existing partnerships between BSC and the private sector: BSC seeks a firm to build BSC’s footprint in P3s will bring together thought leaders in industry and government entities to solve the workforce problems facing the State of North Dakota. The firm shall identify and acquire resources such as local, state, federal, and private grants. Design, Develop, and Implement a model to align BSC’s programing with workforce and economic needs for North Dakota. BSC seeks a firm to design, develop, and implement an innovative platform that fosters growth through BSC’s business and industry leadership teams (BILT). The platform will align BSC current and emerging programming to meet the high priority high demand occupations. Design, Develop, and Implement a project plan to leverage BSC’s polytechnic infrastructure: BSC seeks a firm to build a holistic approach that functions as a makerspace and accelerator for new and existing partners. Utilization of the facility includes current and emerging technologies to conduct research and produce protypes in the new flex labs. Additionally, space may be used for start-up entrepreneurship to create new or emerging business. Design, Develop, and implement a talent acquisition model: BSC seeks a firm to establishes a collaborative, innovative, and accelerated model designed to build a pathway from talent acquisition to the workforce, in general, and the energy industry in particular. The model will focus on multiple pathways including k-12, traditional college age students, and upskilling incumbent workers into 21st century high-demand high-priority occupations. Engage local, state, and federal officials on policy and governance: BSC seeks a firm to build relationships to ensure a clear path to achieve workforce and economic development outcomes. The firm will educate policymakers and stakeholders to create awareness on the challenges and opportunities facing the State of North Dakota across multiple industries with particular focus given to the energy sector.
