Students from eight schools across central and western North Dakota are getting a close‑up look at military life through a new career‑pathway course offered in partnership with the North Dakota National Guard. The program, run by the Central Regional Area Career Tech Center, blends online coursework with three in‑person skills days each semester, allowing participants to explore a wide range of Guard occupations without any enlistment pressure.
Hands‑on learning and real‑world skills
During a recent skills day, the students practiced map reading, toured the Guard’s multi‑bridge unit, and even sampled Meals Ready‑to‑Eat (MREs). New Salem junior Anna Engwicht said she enjoyed the chicken‑noodle MRE, noting, “I’m a pretty picky person, but I actually have liked the MREs that I’ve had so far.”
No obligation, just exploration
Military Ready Program Manager Levi Long emphasized that the course is strictly educational. “No, there’s no obligation. They can come explore with us. It’s a pressure‑free environment,” Long said. He added that recruiters are present only to answer questions and provide information about the many career tracks available in the Guard.
Broad exposure to military careers
Engwicht, who already expressed interest in serving, said the program is opening her eyes to the diversity of jobs beyond the stereotypical image of “big trucks.” “Because you have, like, the people, like, behind the tech. Like, the medics and, like, um, even, like, the cooks, too,” she explained. “So, there’s just a bunch of different categories that aren’t just, like, big trucks.”
Future growth and job‑shadowing opportunities
The hybrid course is open to sophomores through seniors, and organizers hope to expand the program in coming years. Plans include adding more in‑person skills days and introducing job‑shadowing experiences so students can spend time with Guard members in the specific fields they are considering.
Supporting families and communities
By providing a structured, no‑commitment environment, the pathway course aligns with the values of traditional families who want their children to explore career options responsibly. It also reflects the community’s respect for service and the Constitution‑defending role of the National Guard.
For parents and educators interested in enrolling students, the Central Regional Area Career Tech Center is accepting applications for the next academic year. More information can be found on the Center’s website or by contacting the program manager directly.
Original reporting: KFYR-TV Bismarck (news) — read the source article.
