Meet the Board

 Dr. Robert Martin brings more than two decades of experience in education and leadership to his role, guided by a lifelong commitment to learning and a servant-leadership philosophy. Rather than identifying as a “trainer,” Dr. Martin prefers the title of “facilitator,” reflecting his belief in drawing out the best in others through thoughtful questions, meaningful dialogue, and engaging, hands-on experiences.

His career in public education—as both a science teacher and school administrator—has left a significant and lasting mark. A notable highlight includes leading Minot High School’s Central Campus to national recognition in 2010 as a Professional Learning Community (PLC) Model School. It remains the only school in North Dakota to have received this distinction. In 2015, Dr. Martin earned his Ph.D. in Educational Leadership, further demonstrating his dedication to personal growth and the advancement of others.

Whether working with students, professionals, or community leaders, Dr. Martin’s sessions are designed to provide actionable takeaways that drive individual development and strengthen team effectiveness.

 Tim Fisher brings a strong blend of international business acumen and regional expertise to the Central Region Economic Development board. He holds an MBA in International Business from Temple University/Washington University and a Bachelor of Science degree from Minnesota State University Moorhead.

With a career spanning global markets and corporate leadership, Tim operates a private consulting firm that has advised major international clients, including Boeing, Nestlé, Johnson Controls, General Motors, and AM General. He also served as CEO and partner of a Stockholm-based company that was successfully acquired by a NASDAQ-listed corporation.

Tim is also known regionally for his role as co-host of Energy Matters on KFYR Radio during the height of the Bakken oil boom, where he provided insight into energy development and its economic impact.

A lifelong athlete, Tim recently retired from competitive javelin. He earned All-American Masters status, held the school record at Moorhead State, and was inducted into the Minnesota State University Moorhead Track & Field Hall of Fame—an honor reflecting his dedication and discipline both on and off the field. 

Mandy Jump brings a people-centered perspective to economic development, grounded in her background in sociology and more than four years of experience in Human Services across multiple states. Her work with diverse populations has given her unique insight into the practical needs of families and communities in a range of cultural and regional contexts.

As a published author and former editor of The Dakota Leader magazine, Mandy is a strong advocate for clear communication and thoughtful storytelling—blending data with lived experience to shape more responsive policy and practice. She currently works in Family Services with Mountrail County, where she engages daily with the challenges and opportunities facing rural North Dakota communities.

A mother of three and an active participant in community life, Mandy brings valuable first-hand knowledge of local systems such as transportation, childcare, housing, and access to services. Having lived in five different states and immersed herself in a variety of micro-cultures, she understands how infrastructure, policies, and even unspoken community norms can either promote or limit economic participation.

Her voice on the board reflects a deep commitment to making communities not only economically viable but also inclusive, functional, and resilient—rooted in everyday realities.