MDMA History

The following is based on the feedback received from Gary Zespy.  Gary is one of the founders of Fargo Assembly.  He also was instrumental in starting Fargo Hose, and Dakota Molding

• Started in mid-70’s
• Many of the founders were business owners from eastern North Dakota and western Minnesota, most of them in manufacturing
• Met every month and included topics relevant to manufacturing such as quality, workforce, workman compensation, trade policies
• 3-4 time a year they had a bus tour visiting member companies in North Dakota and Minnesota

AN INTERESTING NOTE
Confronted with finding qualified people who possessed basic manufacturing skills, the Association started its own school.  The school offered a 9-week course with curriculum in-line manufacturers’ needs.  The fee for the 9-week course was $10.

Upon successful completion, the graduates were given high priority for hiring whenever there was an opening in member companies.  The program lasted for two years after which the Association approached Fargo School District and met with 10 teachers asking them if they can integrate some of the learning competencies in their vocational programs.  Fargo School District did so but only lasted 6-7 months.