How University of Jamestown Graduates are Shaping the Local Workforce: Success Stories and Contributions

JAMESTOWN — The University of Jamestown is making waves in the local community. According to Tara Steinberger, the human resources director at Interstate Engineering, having accessible graduate education in Jamestown is a win-win for both employees and businesses.

“I spent years exploring different graduate programs before choosing the University of Jamestown,” she shared. Steinberger, who earned her undergraduate degree from UJ, is enhancing her skills after 14 years at Interstate Engineering. She aims to lead cultural changes that improve employee recruitment and retention in her company.

“I plan to stay here and see our initiatives thrive,” she said, emphasizing how the leadership courses grounded in ethics benefit the entire community. With flexible schedules, UJ’s graduate programs allow students working in the community to elevate their careers while contributing to local growth.

Nate Willer, a lifelong Jamestown resident, echoes this sentiment. After spending time in Bismarck, he felt drawn to return. Now managing Fairway Independent Mortgage, Willer appreciates the shift in perspective that comes with adulthood. “When you grow up here, you see things differently as an adult—it’s about being part of the community,” he said.

He believes the growth of UJ positively impacts Jamestown. The university supports local programs, like the Young Professionals group, creating a welcoming environment for new residents. “It’s great to see people put down roots in Jamestown,” Willer added.

Heidi Larson, the associate vice president for the Career Center at UJ, highlights efforts to strengthen the local workforce. “For many students, Jamestown becomes home,” she mentioned in an email. The Career Center connects students with job opportunities in the area, nurturing a valuable pipeline for businesses and residents alike.

In the last five years, 77 graduate students have balanced work, life, and education in Jamestown. This year, 30 are currently enrolled, pursuing degrees in fields like business, engineering, and nursing. Amanda Allen, a graduate assistant, is one such student. Growing up in Pingree-Buchanan, she values the support she’s received from both the university and the community.

“The people of Jamestown are fantastic,” she said, recalling how the community came together to help after a fire damaged a university facility earlier this year.

Larson noted that the Career Center offers tailored resources to support students from the beginning of their college journey. Services include career assessments, alumni mentorship, resume advice, and internship opportunities, all aimed at helping students succeed.

“The community really embraces our students,” Larson said. “From attending events to offering job placements, they make them feel at home.”

In a recent survey, over 70% of respondents reported that local educational institutions have a significant impact on community engagement and workforce development. This trend underscores the importance of having accessible educational opportunities in small towns. As UJ continues to strengthen its programs, both the university and Jamestown can look forward to a thriving future together.

Check out this related article: Inside the Columbia University Protests: A Campus Transformed into a Police State

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