UAS, Manufacturing, and Momentum: Inside Grand Forks' Economic Transformation

(TIMESTAMPS in description below) ~ In this episode of Hangar X, Brandon Bochenski, Mayor of Grand Forks, North Dakota, shares how he’s turning this Midwest city into one of America’s most promising hubs for UAS innovation, advanced manufacturing, and defense-tech growth.From attracting major defense contractors to scaling local startups, Brandon reveals the strategy behind Grand Forks’ transformation—and why it’s now a low-risk, high-upside destination for investors, entrepreneurs, and aerospace pioneers. BRANDON BOCHENSKI LINKS: / brandon-bochenski-442297283 / bochenskibrandon FOLLOW HANGAR X STUDIOS:Instagram: / hangarxstudios Facebook: / hangarxstudios LinkedIN: / hangarxstudios X: https://x.com/hangarxstudios LISTEN TO HANGAR X PODCAST:Apple Podcasts▶https://podcasts.apple.com/us/podcast... Spotify▶https://open.spotify.com/show/3rOII1W... TIMESTAMPS00:00 – "We’ve de-risked the story for you — bring your dollars here."01:44 – Brandon’s journey: From NHL pro to mayor with a mission04:12 – How he unseated a 20-year incumbent with vision and energy05:46 – Grand Forks’ dual strategy: agriculture + tech innovation06:22 – 600–800 new high-paying jobs coming via Grand Sky in 5 years08:20 – Why Grand Forks is perfectly positioned for UAS innovation09:32 – Building a full aerospace ecosystem—from prototyping to mentorship10:20 – Small companies now winning defense contracts—how the game has changed11:12 – Access to venture capital and manufacturing support in Grand Forks15:59 – “We’ve got all the pieces—your investment will only grow here.