When Tyler Sletten joined Vorbeck as the site leader for the company’s North Dakota operations, he knew he was stepping into something special. With a background as SBIR/STTR Director at the Center for Innovation and experience running his own businesses, Tyler was inspired by Vorbeck’s leadership team, Department of Defense partnerships, and potential to play a key role in North Dakota’s growing defense ecosystem.
“Vorbeck is at the right time and the right place,” Tyler said. “North Dakota—and the Red River Valley in particular—is a perfect fit for our work.”
About Vorbeck
Founded in 2006, Vorbeck has built a reputation for innovation in advanced materials for extreme environments, particularly for the Department of Defense. With more than 100 patents, much of their work is centered on printed electronics and graphene-based technologies.
Why North Dakota?
Vorbeck’s journey to Grand Forks began when Chairman William “Bill” Kilberg connected with Governor Doug Burgum. The welcome they received on their first visit sparked multiple return trips—and ultimately the decision to establish a long-term presence here.
“It quickly became clear that North Dakota could be a place where we could plant deep roots,” Tyler shared.
Building a Team, Building a Future
Like many expansions, Vorbeck faced challenges: assembling a new team, securing facilities, and operating across two locations 1,400 miles apart. Their solution? Invest in people.
One key step was hiring Amanda Odegard, now company-wide HR Director, whose leadership helped stabilize operations and set the foundation for growth.
From there, the team grew into a powerhouse of talent:
- Andrew Knable and Ryan Chappell – designing and building the plant
- Morgan LaRock – first to be brought on to the team directly from UND, now leading Logistics and Supply Chain
- Andy Lafferty – Master Electrician, pivotal to plant construction
- Chris Vondra and Zach Edwards – skilled technicians supporting expansion
“More than the milestones, it’s the people who make this work,” Tyler said.
Group photo taken while touring the Vorbeck Facility, Photo by Haylee Bjork
Support Along the Way
Vorbeck credits a strong ecosystem of partners for helping fuel their success:
- Center for Innovation (CFI) for everything from pitch coaching to membership support
- Grand Forks EDC and Keith Lund’s team for hands-on support
- North Dakota Development Fund for advancing UAS initiatives
- Department of Commerce for ongoing partnership
As a former CFI staff member, Tyler has a unique perspective: “CFI has been instrumental in our growth. Amy Whitney introduced me to NSF I-Corps, which reshaped how we think about customer needs. Anthony Maher’s coaching sharpened our pitches, often with the tough advice only a trusted advisor can give. And Travis Fretheim guided us through every step of our tenancy—from a single office, to larger Skalicky spaces, and eventually to our graduation into a permanent home.
I’d also like to thank Haylee Bjork, Jeff Barta, Sona Lesmeister, Amanda Voigt, and Kevin Lunke —each played a role in making the road a little smoother. Simply put, CFI has been a partner every step of the way.”
Recent Highlights
- Moving into a new, larger facility with the support of Russell Crary and Crary Development
- Launching internship opportunities for UND students across engineering disciplines
- Establishing a scholarship for excellence in electrical engineering at UND’s College of Engineering & Mines
- Developing collaborations with UND’s EERC, Aerospace, Space Studies, and CEM
“This expansion sets the stage for our next chapter,” Tyler explained. “We can now bring all production under one roof, with room to grow.”
Andrew Knable leading a tour of Vorbeck’s new facility, Photo by Haylee Bjork
Looking Ahead
Vorbeck’s near-term focus is finishing its plant buildout this fall and growing its North Dakota team from 20 to 50+ employees. Longer term, the company envisions becoming a cornerstone of advanced manufacturing in North Dakota, known for PFAS-free firefighting foams, cutting-edge graphene applications, and deep ties to UND in research and workforce development.
“In five years, we want to be at full scale—delivering mission-critical technologies for the Department of Defense and beyond, while creating jobs and opportunities right here in Grand Forks.”
Advice for Fellow Innovators
When asked what advice he’d give to other entrepreneurs, Tyler pointed to the wisdom of Teddy Roosevelt, paraphrasing one of his most famous ideas:
“Think boldly; dare greatly.”
Learn more about Vorbeck and their mission to pioneer advanced materials that support national defense while creating jobs and opportunities in North Dakota by following them on LinkedIn or visiting their website.