BSC-Continuing Education

📢 CALL FOR PRESENTERS IS NOW OPEN!

The Energy Progress & Innovation Conference (EPIC) is seeking presenters for our 2027 conference. Share your expertise, innovative ideas, and industry insights with energy professionals from across the region.

Conference Dates:
January 26-28, 2027
Bismarck Event Center, Bismarck, ND

Presenter Proposals Accepted:
May 1 - July 31, 2026

Whether your topic focuses on power generation, transmission, distribution, emerging technologies, operations, workforce development, safety, or industry innovation, we encourage you to submit a proposal.

For proposal information and conference updates, visit NDEPIC.com.

The Lignite Energy Council's (LEC) annual Teacher Education Seminar returns to Bismarck State College this week in the Advanced Technology Center!

For more than 20 years, the seminar has brought educators from across the region to BSC's campus to gain first-hand knowledge of how lignite is mined and used to generate the electricity that powers homes, farms, and businesses throughout the Upper Midwest.

Participants will also explore key environmental and energy issues impacting the industry and will take part in tours of a local lignite mine and electricity generation facility.

Learn more: https://lignite.com/event/lignite-education-seminar/

Upcoming Enrichment Classes | June 21–27

Technology is changing the way we travel. Learn how artificial intelligence can simplify trip planning and help you make informed decisions before you go. Explore how AI tools can assist with itinerary building, destination research, budgeting, and travel preparation.

Using AI for Travel Planning
Date: June 23
Time: 6:00–7:30 PM
Register: https://tinyurl.com/BSC-AITravel33064

✨ Instructor Spotlight: Darren Kruger, CDL Instructor ✨

For more than 20 years, Darren Kruger has built a career rooted in the trucking industry, gaining firsthand experience in nearly every aspect of commercial driving before bringing his expertise into the classroom.

Darren began his trucking journey in 2001 after earning his Commercial Driver’s License (CDL) at Careers Worldwide in Brighton, Colorado. From team driving across the country to becoming an owner-operator of his own semi-truck, Darren experienced life on the road from many different perspectives.

He later worked hauling water in the oil fields before returning to over-the-road trucking. Unfortunately, a career-ending injury forced him to step away from driving - but it also opened the door to a new passion: teaching.

Darren discovered a love for helping future drivers build the skills and confidence needed for successful trucking careers. After teaching in Cedar Rapids, Iowa, he joined Bismarck State College in October 2022, allowing him to return home to Bismarck and be closer to family.

Today, Darren is dedicated to preparing the next generation of professional drivers for success on the road. His students benefit from not only his knowledge and industry expertise, but also the real-life experiences and lessons he shares from his years behind the wheel.

⭐ Fun Fact:
Darren is known for being a fantastic storyteller and has plenty of entertaining tales from his travels across America’s highways and backroads. His stories bring classroom lessons to life and give students a real glimpse into the trucking industry.

The best lessons often come from experience, and Darren brings years of real-world trucking experience to every class he teaches.

Are you an RN looking for a flexible, part-time opportunity? Join our team as an instructor for our Certified Medication Assistant II (CMA II) class! Share your expertise, mentor future healthcare professionals, and make a meaningful impact through teaching. Apply today or reach out to learn more! https://bit.ly/3PsTpBb

Make time this week for opportunities to slow down, reset, and build a strong foundation for wellness. Whether you are brand new to meditation or looking to create a consistent practice, this class offers practical tools you can use right away.

Meditation for Beginners
Dates: June 8–25 (Mon & Thurs)
Time: 6:00–7:15 PM
Register: https://tinyurl.com/BSC-Meditation33063

Kick Off Summer with OLLI!
Looking for a fun, relaxing way to start your summer? Join us for the OLLI Spring Social—an afternoon filled with friendly faces, great conversation, and a little inspiration!

Thursday, June 4
3:00–5:00 PM
BSC Campus – NECE Bavendick State Room
Come reconnect with friends and meet new ones while enjoying light appetizers in a welcoming, easygoing atmosphere. It’s the perfect way to celebrate another wonderful year of lifelong learning together

Featured Presentation:
We’re excited to welcome Kelsey Deckert from NDSU Extension–Burleigh County for a short and helpful presentation on Successful Gardening—perfect whether you’ve got a green thumb or are just getting started.
Be among the first to sign up for the 2026–27 OLLI membership and take home a small thank-you gift from us!

Bring a Friend!
New and prospective members are always welcome—so invite a neighbor or two!
No RSVP required, but we’d appreciate a heads-up if you plan to attend:
https://bismarckstate.questionpro.com/OLLISocial2026
We hope to see you there—let’s celebrate summer together!

The North Dakota Asian-American Arts and Cultural Initiative (NDAAACI) is proud to present the 5th Annual Cultural Expo!

This free public event invites the community to explore the beauty and uniqueness of Asian arts and culture. This year’s expo celebrates artistic expression, storytelling, and the many forms of creativity that shape diverse cultures across Asia. Attendees will experience engaging performances, meaningful cultural displays, and a wide range of artistic works.

More than a showcase, the Cultural Expo serves as a bridge—connecting communities, encouraging cultural appreciation, and highlighting the richness, complexity, and resilience of Asian identity.

Event Details:
Date: Saturday, May 30, 2026
Time: 2:00 PM – 4:00 PM
Location: Bavendick Board Room, second level of the BSC National Energy Center of Excellence (NECE)
Address: 1200 Schafer St, Bismarck, ND 58501

The NDAAACI Cultural Expo also provides a platform for local artists and artisans to share their work. Featuring a diverse collection of arts and crafts, this event offers an opportunity to engage with the stories, perspectives, and creativity of our communities while honoring cultural traditions and celebrating evolving artistic expression.
All are welcome to attend.