High school students in Williston, North Dakota, will soon have the opportunity to participate in a 2-day Energy Education Workshop thanks to funding from UND CONNECT. The University of North Dakota (UND)’s UND CONNECT program provides UND faculty and students with the opportunity to engage in community-based research, development, and outreach projects.
UND energy and petroleum engineering teaching Assistant Professor Moones Alamooti is one of five UND faculty members to receive up to $5,000 in funding for projects advancing public service, education, and community well-being across North Dakota.
Funded projects will begin in the spring 2026 semester.
Alamooti will partner with the Williston Basin Career & Technical Education Center and Williston High School to engage 50 junior and senior students interested in STEM fields through hands-on learning and career exploration. Students will be introduced to energy-sector careers and technical skills available in their own region.
“Despite North Dakota’s position as a leading energy producer, local students have limited exposure to the technical skills and career opportunities available in their own community,” the project’s proposal notes.
The project will provide classroom and computer lab facilities at Williston High for the 2-day workshop, and designate two science teachers to assist with coordination, student supervision, and curriculum integration.