UND, Vorbeck join forces on next-generation technologies. November 5, 2026 Agreement signed at Space Operations Summit creates pathway from University research to manufacturing and deployment The University of North Dakota and Vorbeck Materials have signed a memorandum of understanding to collaborate on advanced materials, aerospace, unmanned systems and defense-related research, creating new opportunities to move emerging technologies from the laboratory to real-world applications. The agreement was formalized Nov. 4 during the 2026 Space Operations Summit in Grand Forks, with U.S. Sen. Kevin Cramer presiding over the signing ceremony. "I've always felt like when you have friends who don't know each other, you should do as much as you can to help them get to know each other, right?" said U.S. Sen. Kevin Cramer. "And in this position, I was able to make that happen." Cramer emphasized the importance of partnerships that can keep pace with rapid technological change, anticipate emerging challenges and develop solutions before new needs arise. The partnership combines UND's research strengths in aerospace, autonomous systems and national security with Vorbeck's expertise in advanced materials, product development and manufacturing. The organizations will explore collaborative research, technology development, workforce initiatives and federal funding opportunities. "Having strong partnerships with industry supports the development of new technologies," said Scott Snyder, UND's vice president for Research and Economic Development. "Vorbeck's expertise and manufacturing capabilities complement the research happening across UND. Through this agreement, we can move promising technologies from discovery to deployment." Founded in 2006, Vorbeck Materials develops graphene-based technologies for military, aerospace, first responder and commercial applications. The company recently established a manufacturing facility in Grand Forks, creating new opportunities for collaboration between regional research and industry. "Some of the most important challenges facing our country will be solved by people who believe they have a responsibility to do something about them," said Tyler Sletten, site leader for Vorbeck's North Dakota operations. "That spirit runs deep in North Dakota. And it's why we're so proud to join forces with UND, bringing research and industry together to develop technologies that strengthen our national defense. This is the kind of work that matters, and exactly the kind of work North Dakota should be known for." The collaboration will connect research, engineering and manufacturing expertise to help bring new technologies from concept to operational use.

Vorbeck Materials opens manufacturing facility. May 12, 2026 Facility will provide UND students with employment, experiential learning opportunities Last week, campus and community leaders cut the ribbon of a manufacturing facility that will provide experiential learning opportunities for UND students, while also bolstering the region's economy. On May 6, Vorbeck Materials - a Maryland-based manufacturer of products for clients spanning the defense, aerospace and first responder industries - opened its new, 47,000 square foot campus in Grand Forks. Tyler Sletten, director of operations for Vorbeck, opened the event. Sletten, who previously worked at UND's Center for Innovation, reminisced on meeting company leadership for the first time. "When I sat in the boardroom at CFI and learned about Vorbeck, I came away knowing that we had to have this company in Grand Forks," he said. Vorbeck CEO John Lettow added that the "national and global level talent at UND" was a major factor in choosing to build its manufacturing facility in Grand Forks. "The first thing we noticed about this area is that it has a fantastically connected business ecosystem," Lettow said. "Then there is UND. It is an incredible asset to this community. It has excellent programs - national security, the Research Institute for Autonomous Systems, UAS and growing space programs. It's just an ideal place that we are honored to be." North Dakota U.S. Sen. John Hoeven cited rising enrollment at UND - and Vorbeck's partnership with the College of Engineering & Mines to provide internship opportunities - as a boon to the region's workforce. "Think about what this means for recruiting people to live in North Dakota, in this exciting, growing economy," Hoeven said. "If you're a student interested in space, aerospace or UAS, you don't just see it in the classroom - you live it. You can be part of these companies developing these technologies and jobs for the future." In addition to providing internship and employment opportunities for UND students, Vorbeck sponsors UND's Advanced Rocketry Club - an organization introducing students to the mechanics of designing and testing rockets. One such Vorbeck product that will be manufactured at the new facility - and beneficial to area first responders - is its patented graphene-based firefighting foam. According to Lettow, the product is more effective than traditional firefighting agents and contains no PFAS, a chemical known to cause environmental and health harms. "We now have the highest performing foam, not only in the country but also in the world," Lettow said. Following the ribbon-cutting, members of the Grand Forks Fire Department demonstrated the capabilities of Vorbeck's firefighting foam by extinguishing a simulated fire.