A Random Note from Billings Big Sky Economic Development Authority -- The Bakken, North Dakota, USA

Link here. 

In the midst of oil and gas exploration and production to the east, south and north, in the middle of wind energy production, and surrounded by coal production, with the prospect of much more to come, Billings could easily be proclaimed as an “energy hub.”

That’s just what Big Sky Economic Development Authority (BSED) proclaimed, as it set as a priority, the recruitment of companies to Billings and Yellowstone County which are engaged in energy-related businesses.

“We make the perfect hub to locate offices or to manufacture stuff,” said Jeremy Vannatta, who is BSED’s director of business outreach, recruitment and marketing. “We have a big opportunity.”

Although quick to note that energy-related businesses are not the only kind of business BSED wants to recruit, it does make sense, he said, that energy-related businesses should be readily attracted to Billings, once they understand its strategic location.

Look at what Billings is seeing with regard to Williston:

Board member Susan Riplett, vice president of First Interstate Bank, agreed that many people are still unaware of what is in store. She said that her industry is trying to get geared up by acquiring the expertise they will need in providing financing to energy related businesses.

Financial services, medical services, retail, construction — all are going to be impacted, she said. Energy development will “bring more people, more jobs, and help every business,” she said.

Gordon Tryon, general manager of Brown’s Auto Service and a member of the committee, agreed. He said that most auto service businesses in Billings are now being frequently pressed by customers who say they are in a hurry to get back to North Dakota. He added, “There are a hundred thousand more vehicles in that area and no more auto shops.”

He went on to say that there are many people with incomes “10, 20, 30 times greater than before.” They are buying things and have no place to spend money where they are, he said.

I can't remember if I posted my observation regarding the need for diesel mechanics here in the Bakken, but this article supports that view.