If you’re looking to connect with candidates or employers in this region, the NORTHFORCE Team is here to help make that happen!
NORTHFORCE is your talent portal into the seven northernmost counties of Minnesota and Wisconsin. The community initiative powered by Northspan is led by partners in local and regional economic development, higher education, and the business community.
The NORTHFORCE Tech Team
- Ali Bilden Camps, Northspan Consultant & NORTHFORCE Program Manager — Ali is the first point of contact for employers and candidates. If you’re seeking employment opportunities or employees in northeast Minnesota or northwest Wisconsin, reach out to Ali!
- Caitlin Vander Wal, Operations Specialist — Caitlin handles day-to-day administrative support. Reach out to Caitlin for help with general questions at info@northforce.org.
- Josie Strom, Communications Consultant — Since 2016, Josie has handled the blog, newsletters, and media relations. If you have a lead on a story — a new hire, a career move, or another event — let Josie know!
- Ian Vincent, APEX Partner — Ian helped build northforce.org from the ground up beginning in 2013 and continued to manage the initiative through 2018. Now a Senior Business Developer with APEX as well as the chairman of the Duluth Workforce Board, Ian provides oversight and critical connectivity to private business and workforce partners.
- Elissa Hansen, Northspan President & CEO — Steering NF with strategic oversight brings Elissa’s career full circle: She helped launch northforce.org as Director of Business Development at APEX in 2013. After roles with Brainerd Lakes Area Development Corporation and Steam Creative Consulting, in addition to serving as a member of the Duluth City Council and a commissioner on the Duluth Economic Development Authority, she’s now back at the helm of the NF program.
The NORTHFORCE Advisory Committee includes 30 participants:
Working in tandem with the Tech Team, these individuals and representatives of area organizations:
- Provide program oversight and strategic funding recommendations
- Warm sales development with businesses and organizations
- Connect with regional and statewide entities and share information
- Guide and inform how the program fits into the broader workforce development system
