Which industry significantly shaped North Dakota's economy in the 21st century?

The oil drilling and extraction industry has significantly shaped North Dakota's economy in the 21st century due to the substantial shale oil reserves located within the Bakken Formation. This region has experienced a boom in oil production since the early 2000s, transforming North Dakota into one of the leading oil-producing states in the U.S. The increased drilling activities have led to economic growth, job creation, and infrastructure development, profoundly impacting local communities and the state's overall economy.

The growth of the oil industry has also contributed to a surge in population as workers relocated to take advantage of job opportunities in the sector. The economic benefits are not just limited to direct oil jobs; they also extend to ancillary industries such as construction, transportation, and services, amplifying the overall economic impact on the state.

While renewable energy and technology are indeed growing sectors in North Dakota, they do not currently match the scale and immediacy of impact that oil drilling has had since the early 2000s. Aerospace is also a relevant industry but remains a smaller part of the state's economic portfolio in comparison to oil production. Thus, oil drilling and extraction stands out as the defining industry that has shaped North Dakota's economy in the 21st century.