The North Dakota Trade Office is thrilled to welcome two new additions to our team. Nick and Mathew are exceptionally talented individuals who are committed to keeping our organization on top. Continue reading to learn more about them.
About Nick Lehr
Nicholas Lehr will be stepping into the role of International Business Specialist at the NDTO. With a passion for global commerce and a strong commitment to fostering economic growth, Nick brings a wealth of knowledge and a dedication to helping North Dakota businesses expand their reach beyond borders.
Born and raised in Moorhead, Minnesota, Nick developed a love for the Midwest and its rich culture. His upbringing instilled in him a strong work ethic and a deep appreciation for community—values that have played a key role in shaping his professional journey.
Nick is a lifelong learner who has continually sought out opportunities to deepen his understanding of the world, studying in Turkey and Israel/ Palestine and the global marketplace. He believes that international business is not just about financial success, but about fostering meaningful relationships and mutual growth between countries, regions, and businesses. This perspective drives his work at the NDTO, where he will focus on identifying new markets, assisting companies in building export strategies, and ensuring that North Dakota businesses have the resources and knowledge they need to thrive internationally.
His role as International Business Specialist involves guiding local companies through the various stages of exporting, from initial market research to securing international partnerships and contracts. Nick is particularly excited about helping small and mid-sized enterprises in North Dakota, as they have the potential to make a significant impact in the global marketplace. He believes that by empowering local businesses, we can not only boost the state’s economy but also enhance its reputation on the international stage.
Nick’s passion for business is complemented by a deep commitment to the overall success of the region. He sees his role as not only advancing individual companies but also contributing to the broader goal of enhancing North Dakota’s economic development and global competitiveness. His approach emphasizes collaboration, understanding that the success of one business can have a ripple effect, benefiting the wider community.
Outside of work, Nick leads an active lifestyle that reflects his connection to the natural world. He enjoys spending time outdoors, exploring the many parks and nature reserves in the region, which provide both relaxation and inspiration. Gardening is another one of his hobbies, where he finds joy in nurturing growth—an apt metaphor for his professional life as well. In addition, Nick values time spent with his family, drawing energy and motivation from those close to him.
We are confident that Nick’s passion, expertise, and dedication will make a lasting impact at the NDTO. We are thrilled to have him join our team and look forward to seeing the great work he will do to support North Dakota businesses in achieving international success.
About Mathew Warsocki
Mathew Warsocki, a native of Omaha, Nebraska, is our new Grants and Membership Coordinator. His family’s move to southern Wisconsin, followed by Minot, North Dakota during his middle school years, provided Mathew and his two siblings with a broad exposure to Midwestern life early on.
Growing up in Minot, Mathew was enthralled with the culture of his new home. From watching the artisans, chefs, and bakers at the Norsk Hostfest (you must try the lutefisk at least once!), going to his first rodeo, or the yearly visit of the North Dakota State Fair, there was always a new experience to behold. On skates since he was three years old, Mathew was thrilled to play hockey competitively through his school years.
Business and finance were longstanding focuses for Mathew growing up. He joined the Minot FBLA team and was successful at the State and National FBLA competitions for both Economics and Accounting. He graduated from Minot High School and followed it up by attending North Dakota State University in Fargo, ND, where he earned his Bachelor of Science in Finance. While at NDSU, Mathew was an active member in their Student Government, running both their Congress of Student Organizations and Student Court.
After earning his degree, Mathew worked with regional banks in various positions, from being a teller and branch manager, to commercial credit analysis, as well as working credit and treasury roles within the international grocery and insurance industries. Skilled in both financial analysis and the communication of complex financial situations, Mathew is glad to assist our members and exporters with their grant applications, trade trip budgeting, and research reporting to help ensure they find potential markets for their products and services.
If you can’t find Mathew at the North Dakota Trade Office, you will usually find him at a local trivia competition, keeping up to date on current events in business and geopolitics, cooking up an elaborate meal, or hanging out with his friends, family, and cat, Jack.