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  "description": "Williston is the center of North Dakota's energy industry. The Bakken is still in it's infancy and has so much potential for our community. I want to push for advancement in energy, creating long-term jobs for our area, and help our region becoming a leader in dependable energy innovation.",
  "path": "/innovation-and-opportunity-in-the-williston-area/",
  "publishedAt": "2026-04-04T17:02:55.000Z",
  "site": "https://michaelsteelefornd.com",
  "tags": [
    "Donate"
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  "textContent": "Western North Dakota – Williston in particular – is the center of North Dakota’s energy industry. The oil boom began around 2008, but the Bakken’s resources are still just getting set in motion. There is a lot of oil and many valuable by-products, and too much of that potential is still sent out of state. I want to help grow that innovation here in North Dakota, creating more jobs, encouraging economic advancement, and strengthening our community.\n\nOur region has grown on a skilled oil and gas workforce. My goal is to protect our jobs while preparing Williston for  _long-term success_ through new ideas and responsible energy development.\n\nFor example, carbon capture is a functional way to reduce emissions while continuing to support our local energy industry. If we take the right approach, we can  _lead the future of energy_ instead of reacting to it. As a chemical engineer, I have worked on carbon capture research with the Energy & Environmental Research Center (EERC), and have helped design systems for safe, long-term storage. This experience drives my focus to bring real solutions to Williston.\n\nMy priorities include:\n\n  * Supporting innovative projects, such as carbon capture, in the Williston area\n  * Using the skills and input of our existing oil and gas workforce\n  * Building strong partnerships between industry, government, and research groups\n  * Making our region a _leader in dependable energy innovation_\n\n\n\nOther energy opportunities include lithium elements, a multitude of different chemistry options, and flare gas capture. These can all help create a stronger, more stable economy within Williston and all of North Dakota. By building on our strengths while incorporating new technologies, we can protect jobs, grow our economy, and create a sustainable future for the next generation.\n\nWith your help, we can bring innovation to District 23\n\n\n                            Donate\n                        \n\n## Sign up for Michael Steele for ND\n\nBuilding Stronger Communities in District 23\n\nJoin Today\n\nEmail sent! Check your inbox to complete your signup.\n\nNo spam. Unsubscribe anytime.",
  "title": "Innovation and Opportunity in the Williston Area",
  "updatedAt": "2026-04-17T15:32:51.770Z"
}