Harlem, Mont. - The Montana Department of Labor and Industry (DLI), in partnership with the Fort Belknap Tribal Employment Rights Office (TERO), proudly celebrated the success of the 2025 Aaniiih Nakoda Workforce Expo, held on Wednesday, April 30 in Harlem, MT. This landmark event welcomed 444 students from 8 middle and high schools on and near the Fort Belknap Indian Community in North Central and Hi-Line Montana, connecting them with hands-on career exploration, practical skills training, and local employment opportunities.
“This event is a powerful example of what we can achieve when we come together with a shared purpose,” said Commissioner Sarah Swanson. “The Aaniiih Nakoda Workforce Expo opened new doors for students, helping them imagine – and prepare for – their futures. At the same time, it gave employers and training programs direct access to the next generation of talent. We are deeply grateful to the Fort Belknap TERO for their leadership and vision. This is more than a one-day-event – it’s a model for how state and Tribal partners can work together to create real opportunity. We look forward to collaborating with more rural and tribal communities across Montana!”
The expo marked the first-ever collaboration between Montana DLI and a Tribal Nation to host a youth career fair in Indian Country. Students engaged with local employers through interactive exhibits, live industry demonstrations, and hands-on skill career exploration – gaining real-world exposure to a range of career paths in trades, apprenticeships, entrepreneurship, and beyond.
“Our mission was accomplished,” said Nancy Boushie, Director of Fort Belknap TERO. “If even one student left with a clear interest in a career path, we consider the event a success – and we know we achieved that and more! One student operated heavy equipment at the expo and was hired as a pre-apprentice with a local construction company that same day. We are incredibly grateful to the Montana DLI team for accepting our invitation and making history with us. We are already planning for an even bigger event in 2026!”
The Aaniiih Nakoda Workforce Expo exemplifies what’s possible when communities, educators, employers, and Tribal leaders come together to invest in youth and local talent. The Montana DLI and Fort Belknap TERO extend their heartfelt thanks to all who participated, exhibited, and sponsored this groundbreaking event.
To learn more about the Aaniiih Nakoda Workforce Expo, or to discuss bringing this event to your community, please contact Don Wetzel, Jr., Tribal Liaison for the Montana Department of Labor & Industry, at Don.Wetzel@mt.gov.