On the Ground Report: Federal Impacts in North Dakota
By: Prairie Action North Dakota Institute
June 6, 2025
What is Job Corps?
Job Corps was established in 1964 under President Lyndon B. Johnson's Economic Opportunity Act.
It’s purpose is to provide education and vocational training to underserved youth aged 16–24.
There are around 25,000 participants across 120 centers nationwide.
ND’s only center, Quentin N. Burdick Job Corps in Minot, has been open for 31 years.
Federal Cuts to Job Corps
On May 30, the U.S. Department of Labor announced a “phased pause in operations” for all contractor-operated Job Corps centers.
Centers, including Minot’s, instructed to cease operations by June 30, 2025.
No clear answer if closures are temporary or permanent.
Sudden Shutdown for Students
Students in Minot were informed on May 31 they must leave campus by Wednesday, June 5.
Many were given little notice and began packing immediately.
Students report being blindsided and anxious, especially those with no other housing options.
Some students had only been there a few days before being told to leave.
Job Corps Staff Left Without Answers
Bryce Young, Fargo’s only Job Corps staff member, was laid off June 3.
His role was helping graduates access jobs, housing, food, and clothing.
He described the program’s end simply: “That has been discontinued as of Friday.”
Unclear how many of North Dakota’s 120 Job Corps employees will lose their jobs.
Scrambling to Support Students with Nowhere to Go
Remaining staff are trying to connect students with housing, employment, and transportation.
With such little notice, many are scrambling to offer even basic support.
Some students were nearing program completion and are now cut off from finishing.
Local and State Impact
Quentin N. Burdick Job Corps has been a critical resource for decades in rural ND.
Closure creates a training gap for underserved youth across the region.
ND officials and Job Corps staff say they are still waiting on clear federal guidance.
What Happens Next?
No confirmed plan for transitioning students or staff.
Staff and students left in limbo as operations wind down.
Programs aimed at economic mobility, housing stability, and job readiness are now off the table for hundreds across the state.
Sources:
KFGO, June 4, 2025
InForum, June 3, 2025
KFYR TV, June 2, 2025
Minot Daily News, May 31, 2025
