Bozeman, Montana — The Montana Chamber of Commerce proudly announces Montana State University (MSU) joining as its newest Treasure State Member, marking a significant step forward in strengthening workforce readiness, expanding career opportunities, and advancing statewide economic development.
As a land‑grant university, the state’s largest post‑secondary institution, and Montana’s most business friendly campus, MSU is committed to serving the state’s people, communities, and industries. The university brings vital education, research, and talent‑development programs that support employers and drive innovation across the Treasure State.
“Montana State University is proud to be a member of the Montana Chamber of Commerce,” said the university’s president, Brock Tessman. “Our state’s communities are already well served by Bobcat graduates who leave college with the knowledge, talent and skills to be Montana’s next generation of leaders, and our work with the Chamber will do even more, connecting our students to careers and Montana’s towns and cities to new opportunities.”
Having MSU join the Montana Chamber’s highest membership tier will boost statewide economic growth and support the long‑term prosperity of Montana communities and its future workforce. MSU’s collaboration with the Montana Chamber will enhance efforts to connect students with employers, align academic programs with emerging workforce needs, and advance initiatives that prepare graduates for high‑demand careers in Montana’s growing economy.
The membership further reinforces MSU’s commitment to economic development and industry‑driven research across the state.
“Together, the Montana Chamber of Commerce and Montana State University are committed to ensuring Montana remains a place where businesses invest in the future to build an appropriately skilled workforce of students who are prepared to learn, work, and thrive across the state,” said Todd O’Hair, President & CEO of the Montana Chamber of Commerce.
As a Treasure State Member, MSU will actively engage in the Montana Chamber’s strategic priorities, including workforce development and youth entrepreneurship.
Connecting university students with Montana businesses—and fostering entrepreneurship—are essential to strengthening the state’s long‑term economic vitality and ensuring homegrown talent can build meaningful careers without leaving Montana. Through strong relationships between higher education and industry leaders, employers gain access to skilled, workplace‑ready students— students gain real‑world experience, mentorship opportunities, and clear career pathways that encourage them to remain in Montana after graduation. These connections help employers address workforce shortages—one of the most significant challenges facing the state—empowering students to contribute their ideas, innovate within local industries, and build lasting professional networks.
For more information about the Montana Chamber of Commerce or its Treasure State Membership program, visit www.montanachamber.com.
