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Faculty and Staff Directory

A

Todd Anderson

Program Co-Director - Architectural & Engineering Technology

(605) 718-2986
Todd.Anderson@wdt.edu
L214


Education and Credentials

A.A.S. in Computer-Aided Drafting at Western Dakota Technical Institute

B.S. in Technical Occupations at Chadron State College

Bio: 
Todd Anderson, Program Co-director for the Architectural and Engineering Technology Program, is an architectural and civil design instructor specializing in the Autodesk’s AutoCAD, Revit and Civil 3D software. He received an A.A.S. in Computer-Aided Drafting from Western Dakota Technical Institute and a Bachelor's degree in Technical Occupations from Chadron State College.

Anderson has worked in the Architectural Design industry for nearly three decades and has experience that spans multiple disciplines including the casino industry, and both residential and commercial building design. Throughout his career, he has helped with the design for over 100 casinos across the US, Canada and Mexico and has collaborated on many architectural design projects in and around the Black Hills area.

William Armstrong

Adjunct Faculty


William.Armstrong@wdt.edu


Education and Credentials

B.A. in History/Phys Ed at Pacific Lutheran University

M.Ed. in Guidance & Counseling/School Administration at South Dakota State University

Bio:
Bill Armstrong retired as a Captain from the Pennington County Sheriff’s Office after 20 years of service. He is a veteran of the United States Air Force and was stationed at EAFB. Armstrong has a Bachelor’s degree in History from Pacific Lutheran University and a Master’s degree in Education from South Dakota State University. He has taught in the Law Enforcement program at WDTC since 1998. Armstrong has also taught as an adjunct instructor in the Criminal Justice Program for the University of South Dakota since 2002. Armstrong now teaches Criminal Investigations, Criminology, Terrorism, and Firearms.

B

Angela Baker

Instructional Support Coordinator

(605) 718-2909
Angela.Baker@wdt.edu
Admin D222


Education and Credentials

B.S. in Business Management at National American University

Megan Ball

Medical Laboratory Technician Instructor

(605) 718-2913
Megan.Ball@wdt.edu
W131P


Education and Credentials

A.A.S. in Medical Laboratory Technology at Mitchell Technical Institute  

B.S. in Medical Laboratory Science at South Dakota State University

Bio:
Megan Ball has worked as a Medical Lab Technician since graduating from Mitchell Technical College in 2005. She later completed her Bachelor’s degree in Medical Laboratory Science from South Dakota State University. In addition to being an MLT, Ball has been employed in various leadership roles including Lead Tech, Credentialled Trainer, Education Specialist, and Medical Laboratory Scientist. She began teaching at Western Dakota Technical College in 2023.

Jay Banick

Photo of Jay Banick.

Program Director Professional Truck Driving

(605) 718-2990
Jay.Banick@wdt.edu
B108


Education and Credentials

Bio:
Jay Banick has been the Program Director for the Professional Truck Driving Program since 2018. He has 30 years of driving experience with 3 million safe miles. During his 30-year driving career, Banick assisted in training and mentoring new drivers, provided input and served as an advocate for company safety programs, and built decades-long relationships with customers.



Abbie Barber

Farm & Ranch Management/Meat Processing Programs Director

(605) 718-3060
Abbie.Barber@wdt.edu
W2364-A


Education and Credentials

B.A. in Criminal Justice at Chadron State College

Bio:
Abbie Barber obtained her Bachelor’s degree in Criminal Justice from Chadron State College. She currently owns/operates an Angus cattle ranch in Western South Dakota. 

In 2023, Barber became the WDTC Farm and Ranch program director.

Troy Barry

Photo of Troy Barry.

Welding & Fabrication Instructor

(605) 718-2989
Troy.Barry@wdt.edu
L223


Education and Credentials

Diploma in Welding/Manufacturing at Western Dakota Technical College
AWS Certified Welding Inspector

Bio:
Troy Barry, a 2005 graduate of Western Dakota Technical College’s (WDTC) Welding Program, brings 14+ years of industry experience to classroom instruction. While a student, Barry was a S.D. State SkillsUSA Champion and now currently serves as the Vice President of the S.D. SkillsUSA Board of Directors. In 2022, he received the SkillsUSA S.D. Hall of Champions Award which is bestowed upon those who help youth develop the components of the Skills USA Framework in a changing world. Additionally, Barry was named one of five 2019 SkillsUSA Outstanding Career and Technical Educators and was honored at their national conference. In 2020, WDTC’s Welding and Fabrication program earned the American Technical Education’s Association (ATEA) Outstanding Technical Program Award. Barry was a 2020 finalist for the ATEA Outstanding Faculty Award.

Mindy Bear

Associate Registrar

(605) 718-2957
Mindy.Bear@wdt.edu
SS-D132


Education and Credentials

Certification from Black Hills Beauty College for Cosmetology

Danielle Beaulieu

Photo of Danielle Ragnone

Registered Nursing Coordinator & Instructor

(605) 718-2916
Danielle.Beaulieu@wdt.edu
W131F


Education and Credentials

B.S. in Nursing at South Dakota State University

M.S. Nurse Educator Specialization at South Dakota State University

Bio:
Danielle Beaulieu received her Bachelor of Science in Nursing and Master of Science, Nurse Educator Specialization at South Dakota State University. She began her health care career more than 13 years ago as a Certified Nurse Assistant while attending nursing courses.

Following graduation, Beaulieu worked as a staff nurse, nurse preceptor, clinical teaching assistant, and nurse clinician. She began her career in academia in 2018 with Western Dakota Tech and has taught Medical Assisting, Practical Nursing, and most currently, Registered Nursing courses.

Nicole Bisgaard

Adjunct Faculty


Nicole.Bisgaard@wdt.edu


Education and Credentials

B.S. in Mathematics at South Dakota State University

M.A. in Education, Science/Mathematics at Chadron State College

Ann Bolman, Ed.D

President


Ann.Bolman@wdt.edu
Dakota Hall-Admin


Education and Credentials

B.A. in English at Texas A&I University

M.A. in English at Texas A&I University

Ed.D. in Education at Texas A&M University

Jennifer Bonner

Program Director - Medical Assisting Instructor

(605) 718-2925
Jennifer.Bonner@wdt.edu
W131L


Education and Credentials

B.S. in Nursing at University of Arkansas for Medical Science

M.S. in Nursing at University of Cincinnati

Doctor of Nursing Practice at Frontier Nursing University


Dr. Jennifer Bonner joined the faculty at Western Dakota Technical College in March 2022. She received her B.S. in Nursing from University of Arkansas for Medical Sciences in 2009, M.S. in Nursing from the University of Cincinnati in 2012 and M.S. in Midwifery from Frontier Nursing University in 2017, then her DNP in 2019 from Frontier. She has spent most of her nursing career in L&D and Postpartum, then as a Certified Nurse Midwife she enjoyed providing care for the women of the Black Hills and surrounding areas at Rapid City OB/GYN. She currently serves as the Program Director for the Medical Assisting program and teaches within the RN and LPN programs. 

Joelle Boshart

Program Director - Health Information Management

Simulation Operations Specialist

(605) 718-2918
Joelle.Boshart@wdt.edu
W131A


Education and Credentials

Certified Professional Coder - Coder II (CPC)

Certified Professional Medical Auditor (CPMA)

Certified Evaluation and Management Coder (CEMC)

Bio:
Joelle Boshart is the WDTC Health Information Management Program Director. She is a Certified Professional Coder. She began coding and billing in 1986 and over the years has worked in numerous medical practices and hospital settings. Specialties include Plastic and Reconstructive Surgery, Orthopedic Surgery, Colo-Rectal Surgery, General Surgery, Dermatology, Pulmonology, Neurology and Sleep Medicine, Pain
Management and Rehabilitation, Anesthesiology, Internal Medicine, and Family Practice. In 2014, she was awarded “Compliance Champion” by Regional Health Corporate Responsibility for “Always striving to do the right thing”. In the past she has held Board seats with APSPA (Association of Plastic Surgery Physician Assistants) as Member at Large – West, Race for the Cure, Orange County Chapter as Member Secretary, and served as Treasurer for AAPC (American Association of Professional Coders) Rapid City Chapter from 2020-2021.

Doyle Bouzek

Photo of Doyle Bouzek

Program Director - Automotive Technology

(605) 718-2924
Doyle.Bouzek@wdt.edu
L109B


Education and Credentials

A.A.S in Advanced Automotive Repair at Lake Area Tech

Bio:
Doyle Bouzek is the Automotive Technology Program Director. He received his A.A.S in Advanced Automotive Repair at Lake Area Tech.

Bouzek came to WDT as an adjunct in the fall of 2016 after closing his repair facility that operated for 14.5 years. He started his career as a Ford Service Technician for nine years before becoming a Service Manager in a Ford Dealership for seven years. After leaving the Ford Service Management position, he was hired by Snap-on Tools as a Technical Representative for five years before returning to Rapid City to open his own repair facility, which included two locations.

Hannah Bowman

Adjunct Faculty


Hannah.Bowman@wdt.edu


Education and Credentials

B.A. in Comm Studies & Theater at South Dakota State University

M.S. in Communication Studies at SDSU

Eric Boyda

Adjunct Instructor


Eric.Boyda@wdt.edu


Education and Credentials

B.A. in Wildlife and Fisheries Sciences from South Dakota State University
M.A. in Biological Science & Statistics from South Dakota State University

Suzanne Brandt

Instructor

Practical Nursing

(605) 718-2974
Suzanne.Brandt@wdt.edu
W131E


Education and Credentials

B.S.N. in Nursing at Morningside College

Bio:
Suzanne Brandt received her B.S.N. in Nursing at Morningside College in Sioux City, Iowa, in 1986. She worked in the Houston Medical Center and surrounding areas for the first 23 years of her nursing career in Neuro ICU, Cardiac Care Unit, Cardiovascular Recovery, and intermediate Care as a bedside nurse and nurse manager. She also assisted her husband in managing his chiropractic office. Upon moving to the Rapid City area in 2009, Brandt worked at Rapid City Regional Hospital for three years in Progressive Care Unit and Clinical Informatics before beginning her teaching career in the Western Dakota Tech Practical Nursing program in 2012.

Timmi Bubac

General Education - English Instructor

(605) 718-2938
Timmi.Bubac@wdt.edu
L173


Education and Credentials

B.S. in Secondary English Education at BH State University  

M.A. in English Literature at Colorado State University

Bio:
Timmi Bubac has a Bachelor’s degree in secondary English education from Black Hills State University and a Master’s degree in English Literature from Colorado State University. She taught English in the public schools in Colorado and College Composition courses for Colorado State University while attending graduate school. Most recently, Bubac taught English at Stevens High School.

Rachael Burchell

Dental Assisting Instructor

(605) 718-2933
Rachael.Burchell@wdt.edu
W141


Education and Credentials

A.A.S. in Dental Assisting at San Joaquin Valley College

Bachelor of Arts degree in General Studies from Southern New Hampshire University

Bio:
Rachael Burchell earned an Associate’s degree in Culinary Arts from South Central College in Minnesota and an Associate’s degree in Dental Assisting from San Joaquin Valley College in California. She is a Certified Dental Assistant with more than 10 years of experience in that role and most recently as an Office Manager.

C

Chandra Calvert

Director of Industry Relations & Grant Management

(605) 718-2419
Chandra.Calvert@wdt.edu
L110


Education and Credentials

B.S. in English/Music Ed at University of Mary

M.A. in English at Colorado State University

Georgina Cavin

Adjunct Faculty


Georgina.Cavin@wdt.edu


Education and Credentials

M.B.A. at University of Sioux Falls

B.S. in Accounting at National American University

A.A.S. in Accounting @ National College

Bryon Christian

Computer Science Instructor

(605) 718-3053
Bryon.Christian@wdt.edu
L173


Education and Credentials

B.S. in English and Education at University of South Dakota
Axis Cameras Certified Network Video Professional
Genetec Security Systems Omnicast and Synergis Technical Certification
CompTIA Network+ Certified

Bio:
Bryon Christian is a Computer Science Instructor. He began teaching at WDTC in August 2022. He has a Bachelor’s degree in English from University of South Dakota. He spent 24 years as a high school English teacher and Technology Director.

Bret Clark

Program Director - Construction Technology

(605) 718-3054
Bret.Clark@wdt.edu
L158


Education and Credentials

B.S. in Education at Black Hills State University

Bio:
Bret Clark is the Construction Technology Program Director. He received a Bachelor’s degree in Education at Black Hills State University. He taught in the Rapid City School District for five years. Clark then began his own construction company working primarily in western South Dakota, Wyoming and North Dakota. The main focus of his company was commercial construction and post frame construction, but it also branched out into the residential homes and concrete. After 15 years in construction, Clark began teaching the Construction Tech program at Western Dakota Tech in the Fall of 2018.

Mark Cropley

Truck Driving Instructor


Mark.Cropley@wdt.edu
B108


Education and Credentials

Bio:
Mark Cropley started in the trucking industry in 1981 as a tow truck driver for a small company and later worked for WR Grace. In 1985, he became an independent trucker and later became a truck broker. At the peak of his company, he owned five trucks and five to seven brokered trucks depending on time of year. Cropley has all commercial driving endorsements including school bus. He closed his company in 2019 and began working at Western Dakota Technical College as an instructor in Fall 2022.

D

Xavier DeBlieck

Program Director - Plumbing

(605) 718-2983
Xavier.DeBlieck@wdt.edu
L114


Education and Credentials

Bio:
Xavier DeBlieck holds a Journeyman Plumbing License from the S.D. Plumbing Commission and has worked as a Journeyman Plumber and Plumbing Foreman since 2017.

Jocelyn Depatie

WR AHEC Coordinator

(605) 718-4314
Jocelyn.Depatie@bhsu.edu
BHSU at RC Campus 4300 Cheyenne Blvd. Rapid City SD 57703 Office 114B


Education and Credentials

A.A.S. in Physical Therapist Assistant at San Juan College

B.S. in Business Administration at University of New Mexico

M.S. in Higher Education at Walden University

Tamara (Tami) Dewes

Assessment Coordinator

Instructor - General Education

(605) 718-2984
Tamara.Dewes@wdt.edu
Admin - D225B


Education and Credentials

B.S. in Elementary Education at Dakota State University

B.S. in Home Economics at South Dakota State University

Bio:
Tami Dewes earned Bachelor's degrees in Home Economics and Elementary Education from South Dakota State University. She has experience as a Program Director at Youth & Family Services, a Child Development Director for Rapid City Catholic Schools, and as a DataBase Manager/Technology Coordinator for Rapid City Catholic Schools. Dewes teaches in the General Education Department and is also one of WDTC’s Assessment Coordinators.

Melissa Diedrich

Adjunct Faculty


Melissa.Diedrich@wdt.edu


Education and Credentials

M.B.A. in Business Administration at American Public University School

B.S. in Business Administration, Tourism, and Hospitality at Black Hills State University

A.S. in Computer Technology at Black Hills State University

Tony Dobbs

Adjunct Instructor


Tony.Dobbs@wdt.edu


Education and Credentials

A.A.S. in Air Conditioning, Heating & Refrigeration Technology from University of Arkansas

Carol Duncan

Adjunct Faculty


Carol.Duncan@wdt.edu


Education and Credentials

M.A. in English at University of Central Florida at Orlando

B.S. in English at Black Hills State University

Mary Duncan

Adjunct Faculty


Mary.Duncan@wdt.edu


Education and Credentials

B.S. in Accounting at Southwest State University

C.P.A.

Bio:
Mary R. Duncan,
CPA, CGMA, has been an Adjunct Accounting Instructor at  Western Dakota Tech since 2018.  She has a Bachelor’s degree in Accounting from Southwest Minnesota State University and has been a Certified Public Accountant for more than 33 years. Duncan worked in public accounting for 15 years, where she did auditing, tax preparation and financial statements.  She was also the CFO of a non-profit community mental health center for 10 years, prior to becoming the Accounting Manager for the Rapid City Area School District - a position she has been in for the last 12 years. Duncan is a member of the South Dakota CPA Society and the American Institute of Certified Public Accountants.

Sidney Dunker

Adjunct Instructor


Sidney.Dunker@wdt.edu


Education and Credentials

Diploma in Licensed Practical Nursing at Southeast Technical College
A.A.S. in Registered Nursing at Western Dakota Technical College

E

David Eckmann

HVAC/Refrigeration Instructor

(605) 718-3075
David.Eckmann@wdt.edu
L201


Education and Credentials

Certificate for Sheet Metal Technician at Mitchell Technical College

Bio:
Dave Eckmann completed sheet metal training at Mitchell Technical College and spent 20 years in the sheet metal trade. He has also worked as a certified air and water balancer for 10 years. Locally, he worked at Rapid City Regional Hospital maintaining HVAC and refrigeration equipment and most recently worked at the Black Hills State University Center in the Maintenance department.

Justin Eiesland

Technology Technician 1

(605) 718-4032
Justin.Eiesland@wdt.edu
L213C


Education and Credentials

A.A.S. in Computer Systems Technology at Mitchell Technical Institute

Diploma for Computer Networking Specialist at Western Dakota Tech

Jill Elder

Director of Compliance and Financial Aid

(605) 718-2411
Jill.Elder@wdt.edu
SS - D117


Education and Credentials

B.S. in Business Administration at National American University

NASFAA Return of Title IV Funds Credential

NASFAA Consumer Information Credential

NASFAA Gainful Employment Credential

NASFAA Professional Judgement Credential

NASFAA Direct Loan Credential

NASFAA Verification Credential

NASFAA Administrative Capability Credential

NASFAA Satisfactory Academic Progress Credential

NASFAA Federal Pell Grant Credential

NASFAA Cost of Attendance Credential

Michael Elston, M.D.

Adjunct Faculty

(605) 718-2511
Michael.Elston@wdt.edu


Education and Credentials

B.S. in Chemical Engineering at South Dakota School of Mines and Technology

M.S. in Chemical Engineering at South Dakota School of Mines and Technology

M.D., Sanford School of Medicine at Sanford School of Medicine, University of South Dakota

Bio:
Michael Elston, M.D., received Bachelor’s and Master’s degrees in Chemical Engineering at South Dakota School of Mines and Technology. He earned his Doctor of Medicine degree from the Sanford School of Medicine at the University of South Dakota and specializes in Family Medicine. Dr. Elson began working as a Western Dakota Tech Paramedic program Adjunct in 2018.

F

Sarah Feldhaus

Adjunct Faculty


Sarah.Feldhaus@wdt.edu


Education and Credentials

M.L.I.S. in Library and Information Science at San Jose State University
B.A. in General Studies at Dakota State University
A.A.S. in Respiratory Care at Dakota State University

Beth-Anne Ferley

Adjunct Instructor


BethAnne.Ferley@wdt.edu


Education and Credentials

B.S. in Business Administration, Marketing at Slippery Rock University

M.B.A. in Business Administration at National American University

Tonia Fischer

General Education - Psychology/Sociology Instructor

(605) 718-2936
Tonia.Fischer@wdt.edu
W232


Education and Credentials

M.S. in Administrative Studies at University of South Dakota
B.S. in Human Services and Sociology at Black Hills State University

Bio:
Tonia Fischer has a double Bachelor’s degree in Sociology and Human Services from Black Hills State University and a Master’s degree in Administrative Studies from the University of South Dakota. Recently retired from the industry, Fischer worked 23 years with the State of South Dakota - five years as a Social Worker and 18 years in probation.

Lyndee Fogelman

Adjunct Faculty


Lyndee.Fogelman@wdt.edu


Education and Credentials

LPN Diploma at Western Dakota Tech
B.S. in Nursing at Presentation College
M.A. in Nursing Education at Walden University

Bio:
Lyndee Fogelman received her Practical Nursing education through Western Dakota Technical College and has a Bachelor's degree in Nursing from Presentation College. Most recently, she has worked as a COVID-Relief School Nurse for the Meade County School District and as a Pre-Test Nurse for Black Hills Surgical Hospital.

G

John Geiman

Team Leader

Program Director - Computer Science

(605) 718-3052
John.Geiman@wdt.edu
L215


Education and Credentials

B.A. in Industrial Technology with emphasis in Drafting at Chadron State College

Master in Cyber Security, Maryville University

Bio:

John Geiman is the Computer Science Program Director. He has worked at WDTC since February 2016. He has a Bachelor’s degree, Composite Major in Industrial Arts with an emphasis in Teaching Methods, Electronics and Drafting, from Chadron State College. Geiman recently earned a Master’s degree in Cyber Security from Maryville University. He has 24 years of experience in the Computer Science field.

Travis Gerlich

Welding & Fabrication Instructor

(605) 718-4709
Travis.Gerlich@wdt.edu
L223


Education and Credentials

A.A.S. in Welding at Western Dakota Technical College

Bio:
Travis Gerlich is a 2007 graduate of Western Dakota Tech’s Welding & Fabrication Program and has been a Certified Welding Inspector with the American Welding Society since 2018. He has been welding in the mining industry for more than 15 years with 12 of those years spent at the Coeur Wharf Mine, where he started as a welder and worked his way up to Maintenance Supervisor.

Melissa Ginsbach

Director of Program Development/Registrar

(605) 718-2415
Melissa.Ginsbach@wdt.edu
SS-D130


Education and Credentials

B.A. in Human Services & Sociology at Black Hills State University
M.A. in Psychology at University of the Rockies
M.A.  in Business Administration at National American University

Christine Goldsmith

Vice President for Finance and Operations

(605) 718-2403
Christine.Goldsmith@wdt.edu
SS-D133


Education and Credentials

M.B.A. at San Diego State University - Imperial Valley Campus
B.S. in Business Administration at California State University
A.A. in General Studies at Santa Rosa Junior College

Mary Grassrope

Program Co-Director - Paramedic

(605) 718-2549
Mary.Grassrope@wdt.edu
W145


Education and Credentials

B.S. in Physics at SD School of Mines & Technology

M.Ed. in Instructional Design at Western Governors University

Paramedic, Advanced Medical Life Support, Prehospital Trauma Life Support

Bio:
Mary Grassrope has worked at Western Dakota Tech since 2015 and is the Paramedic Program Director. She received a Bachelor’s degree in Physics at the South Dakota School of Mines and Technology and a Master’s degree in Instructional Design at Western Governors University. Grassrope is a certified Paramedic and has additional certifications in Advanced Medical Life Support, Prehospital and Trauma Life Support. She is also a certified PALS/ACLS provider. 

Thomas Gravatt

Electrical Trades Instructor

(605) 718-2943
Thomas.Gravatt@wdt.edu
L201


Education and Credentials

A.A.S. in Industrial Controls from Western Dakota Technical College
A.A.S. in Electrical Technology from Southeast Technical College

Bio:
Thomas Gravatt acquired an Electronics Technology degree from Southeast Technical Institute in Sioux Falls in 2011. He continued his education at Western Dakota Technical College and received a degree in Industrial Wiring in 2013.

Gravatt began his apprenticeship in Bozeman, Mont. He passed his Journeyman exam in 2019 and has more than 21,000 hours of electrical experience in the field. He has wired in industrial, commercial, and residential properties. His industrial experience includes the Bakken Oilfields, backup generators, and manufacturing. His commercial experience includes hotels, urgent cares, offices, and the Yellowstone Club Party Barn. His residential experience includes tiny homes, large custom homes, large multi-family dwelling units, etc. Tom began teaching for the WDTC Electrical Trades program in 2024.

Matthew Greene

Director of Information Systems

(605) 718-4038
Matthew.Greene@wdt.edu
L213D


Education and Credentials

B.S. in Information Technology - Emphasis Network Management/Microsoft at National American University

Gary Gregson

College Dining Services Assistant

(605) 718-2431
Gary.Gregson@wdt.edu
W167


Education and Credentials

B.A. in Music Education at Black Hills State University

Linnea Grosz

Adjunct Faculty


Linnea.Grosz@wdt.edu


Education and Credentials

B.S. in Sociology at SD State University

M.S. in Agency and School Counseling at SD State University 

Joseph Guttierez

Adjunct Faculty


Joseph.Guttierez@wdt.edu


Education and Credentials

B.S. in Sociology & Psychology at Black Hills State University

M.S. in Strategic Leadership at Black Hills State University

H

Roger Habermann

Assistant Director Simulation

(605) 718-2915
Roger.Habermann@wdt.edu
W103


Education and Credentials

A.A.S. in Engineering Technology Southwestern Illinois College – Benton LA

Essentials in Clinical Simulations Certificate -George Washington University

CHSOS – Certified Healthcare Simulation Operation Specialist

Krista Hagemann

Program Director - Surgical Technology

(605) 718-2917
Krista.Hagemann@wdt.edu
W131C


Education and Credentials

A.A.S. in Surgical Technology, Rasmussen College, Moorhead, Minn.

Certified Surgical Technologist

Bio:
Krista Hagemann received her A.A.S. in Surgical Technology at Rasmussen College in Moorhead, Minn. She has been a practicing Certified Surgical Technologist since 2010 and an Instructor at Western Dakota Tech since 2017. She became the WDT Surgical Technology Program Director in July 2021. Hagemann is an active member of the Association of Surgical Technologists (AST) and has served as Treasurer and Board of Directors for the South Dakota State Assembly. In 2021, she received the national AST Rising Star Constellation Award. Hagemann was the recipient of the 2019 AST Chris Keegan Conference Scholarship. She was a presenter at the 2019 AST Educator’s Conference.

Richard Hamilton

General Education - Math

(605) 718-3056
Richard.Hamilton@wdt.edu
L173


Education and Credentials

M.S. in Mathematics at University of West Florida

B.S. in Chemical Engineering at SD School of Mines and Technology

Bio:
Rick Hamilton earned a Bachelor's degree in Chemical Engineering from the South Dakota School of Mines & Technology and a Master's degree in Mathematics from the University of West Florida. Most recently, Hamilton was a high school math teacher for the Hill City School District for 13 years.

Donna Hanks

Director of Instructional Support and Professional Development

(605) 718-2951
Donna.Hanks@wdt.edu
Admin - D224


Education and Credentials

Bio:
B.S. in Marketing at Southwest MN State University

M.S. in Administrative Studies at the University of South Dakota

Certificate in Instructional Design from Georgetown University School of Continuing Studies


Bio:
Donna Hanks was an instructor in the Business & Technology program for 14 years before transferring to the Academic Support Team in 2018.  She was our Instructional Technology and Design Specialist for 4 years and now serves as the Director of Instructional Support and Professional Development.

Hanks has a Master's degree from the University of South Dakota in Administrative Studies with an emphasis in Organizational Leadership. She has a Bachelor's degree from Southwest Minnesota State University in Business Administration with an emphasis in finance and marketing. In 2021, she earned a certificate in Instructional Design from Georgetown University School of Continuing Studies.

Hanks has a passion for education, leadership and her community. She is a graduate of Rapid City Area Chamber of Commerce Leadership Rapid City, has served as a board member for LRC, co-chair of Junior Leadership Rapid City committee and served as a volunteer for the Abbott House.

In 2017, Hanks received the Rose Day Award during the International Women’s Day Presentation from Zonta Club of the Black Hills, honoring women for their community work and involvement.

Keeryn Hare

Practical Nursing Instructor

(605) 718-2921
Keeryn.Hare@wdt.edu
W132


Education and Credentials

B.A. in Nursing from University of South Dakota

Bio:
Keeryn Hare began working in the medical field when she was 19 as a nurse’s aide before starting nursing school. She graduated with her Bachelor’s degree in Nursing degree from the University of South Dakota in May 2022. Hare began her first job as a Registered Nurse at Monument Health working on the heart and vascular floors. She has also worked at Black Hills Regional Eye Institute as a Preop, OR, and PACU nurse. She began teaching Registered Nursing clinicals for Western Dakota Technical College in Fall Semester 2023 and then moved into a full-time nursing position in January 2024 in the Practical Nursing program.



Chanin Hartnett

Program Director - Dental Assisting

(605) 718-3057
Chanin.Hartnett@wdt.edu
W141


Education and Credentials

B.A. in General Studies at Southern New Hampshire University

A.A.S. in Pharmacy Technician Program at San Joaquin Valley College-Bakersfield, CA

A.A.S. in Dental Assisting Program at San Joaquin Valley College-Bakersfield, CA

Bio:
Chanin Hartnett is the Director of the Dental Assisting program. She has register dental assisting certification in California and South Dakota, is a Certified Dental Assistant through DANB, and a Bachelor's degree in Business Administration from Southern New Hampshire University.

Hartnett has been teaching in the Business and Dental programs since 2011 and brings five years of work experience in Dentistry.

Dani Hersrud

Surgical Technology Instructor

(605) 718-2934
Dani.Hersrud@wdt.edu
W131C


Education and Credentials

A.A.S. in Surgical Technology at Western Dakota Tech
B.S. in Occupational Education at Wayland Baptist University

Bio:
Dani Hersrud has an Associate of Applied Science degree in Surgical Technology from Western Dakota Technical College and a Bachelor's degree in Occupational Education with a specialization in Psychological Studies from Wayland Baptist University. She is a Certified Surgical Technologist and most recently worked at Black Hills Surgical Hospital.

Mandy Hertel

Program Director - General Education - Social Science

(605) 718-2935
Mandy.Hertel@wdt.edu
W232


Education and Credentials

B.S. in Sociology & Psychology at Black Hills State University

M.S. in Educational Psychology at Capella University

Bio:
Mandy Hertel is the Western Dakota Technical College Social Science Program Director overseeing Sociology and Economics. She started as a Sociology and Psychology Instructor at the college in 2012.

Hertel has a Bachelor's degree in Sociology and Psychology from Black Hills State University and
a Master’s degree in Educational Psychology from Capella University.

Prior to her career as an instructor, Hertel spent 16 years dedicated to helping people with disabilities overcome adversity and reach life goals. This included direct support, case management, and director positions.

In 2021, Hertel received the inaugural American Technical Education Association (ATEA) Impact to Technical Education Award.

Hertel is a proud alumni of Leadership Rapid City and a founding member of the Rapid City Day of Excellence, Inc.

Annette Hill

Assistant Director WR AHEC

(605) 718-4327
Annette.Hill@bhsu.edu
BHSU at RC Campus 4300 Cheyenne Blvd. Rapid City SD 57703 Office 114E


Education and Credentials

B.S. in Chemistry at Purdue University
MPH in Public Health at Southern New Hampshire University

Tiffany Howe

Vice President for Teaching and Learning

(605) 718-2905
Tiffany.Howe@wdt.edu
Admin - D220


Education and Credentials

A.A.S. in Surgical Technology at Presentation College

B.A. in Organizational Management - Biology at Ashford University

M.B.A. in Project Management at Colorado Technical University

M.B.A. in Healthcare Management at Colorado Technical University

Samantha Hunsaker

Adjunct Instructor


Samantha.Hunsaker@wdt.edu


Education and Credentials

Diploma in Licensed Practical Nursing at Southeast Technical College
A.A.S. in Allied Health at Western Dakota Technical College
A.S.S. in Registered Nursing at Western Dakota Technical College

Kristen Hybertson

Team Leader

Director of Nursing

Program Director - Practical Nursing & Registered Nursing

(605) 718-2428
Kristen.Hybertson@wdt.edu
W131H


Education and Credentials

B.S. in Nursing at University of Wyoming

M.S. in Nursing - Nurse Educator at South Dakota State University

Bio:
Kristen Hybertson has been teaching at Western Dakota Tech since August 2019. She received her B.S. in Nursing at University of Wyoming in 2007 and her M.S. in Nursing - Nurse Educator at South Dakota State University in 2018.

Hybertson has worked at Monument Health Rapid City on the Progress Care Unit and the Heart and Vascular Unit as both a bedside nurse and a Clinical Resource Nurse since 2007.

I

J

Megan Jenisch-Nagel

Adjunct Instructor


Megan.Jenisch-Nagel@wdt.edu


Education and Credentials

Diploma in Licensed Practical Nursing at Western Dakota Technical College
A.A.S. in Allied Health at Western Dakota Technical College
A.A.S. in Registered Nursing at Western Dakota Technical College

Justin Jutting

Assessment Coordinator

Program Director - ET Autonomous Equipment Technician

(605) 718-4703
Justin.Jutting@wdt.edu
Admin - D225A


Education and Credentials

A.A.S. in Automotive Technician at Western Dakota Tech

A.A.S. in Transportation Technology at Western Dakota Tech 

B.S. in Education at South Dakota State University

M.B.A. in Business Administration at Chadron State College

ASE Auto Master Certified

ASE Medium Heavy Duty Master Certified

Bio:
Justin Jutting earned an Associate of Applied Science degree in Automotive Technician and in Transportation Technology from Western Dakota Technical College, Bachelor's degree in Education from South Dakota State University, and a Master's degree in Business Administration from Chadron State College. Jutting teaches in the WDTC Autonomous Equipment Technician Program and is also one of the college's Assessment Coordinators.

K

Andrew Kapelewski

Assistant Director of Scholarships

(605) 718-3061
Andrew.Kapelewski@wdt.edu
D127


Education and Credentials

B.A. in Social Work at Christopher Newport University

M.S. in Strategic Leadership at Black Hills State University

Karie Kennedy

Team Leader
Program Director - General Education - Behavioral Science

(605) 718-2928
Karie.Kennedy@wdt.edu
W236B


Education and Credentials

B.S. in Psychology, Sociology & Human Services at Black Hills State University

J.D. in Law at University of South Dakota

Bio:
Karie Kennedy is the Western Dakota Technical College General Education Team Leader, Behavioral Sciences Program Director, and psychology and sociology instructor. She has been an instructor at the college since 2010. She taught full-time in the Paralegal Program for several years before transitioning to the General Education Program.

Kennedy has a Juris Doctorate from the University of South Dakota School of Law and a Bachelor's degree from Black Hills State University in psychology, sociology and human services with an emphasis in community services.

Kennedy was an Assistant City Attorney for the City of Rapid City and worked in private practice. She serves as a volunteer for the 7th Circuit Court Appointed Special Advocate Program (CASA) advocating in court for the best interest of abused and neglected children.

Gina Kimball

Admissions Specialist

(605) 718-2966
Gina.Kimball@wdt.edu
SS-D106


Education and Credentials

B.S. in Education at Black Hills State University

M.A. in Educational Administration at University of South Dakota

Krista Kirst

Director of Simulation

(605) 718-2910
Krista.Kirst@wdt.edu
W131K


Education and Credentials

B.S. in Secondary History Education at Black Hills State University

Bio:
Krista Kirst has a Bachelor’s degree in secondary history education from Black Hills State University and more than five years of high school teaching experience. She also has a background in health care working at Rapid City Regional Hospital/Monument in their OB Unit. Kirst is certified in CPR, CNA, First Aid, Medication Aid and Prevention Intervention.

Mark Kjellerson

Adjunct Faculty


Jared.Kerber@wdt.edu


Education and Credentials

A.A.S. in Electronics at North Dakota State College of Science

B.A. in Business Administration at Minot State University

M.A. in Administration at Central Michigan University

Doctorate in Education Administration at University of South Dakota

Michele Klapprodt

Photo of Michele Klapprodt.

Program Director - General Education - Biological Sciences

(605) 718-2584
Michele.Klapprodt@wdt.edu
W141


Education and Credentials

B.S. in Biology & Health/ Phys Ed & Recreation at South Dakota State University

M.S. in Biological Sciences at Western Governors University 

Bio:
Michele Klapprodt has been an instructor at Western Dakota Technical College (WDTC) since 1993. She began as an adjunct instructor teaching Anatomy & Physiology, Medical Terminology, Pathophysiology and Human Relations in the Workplace. She accepted a full-time position in 2018 as the Biological Science Program Director.

Klapprodt has a Bachelor's degree in Biological Science from South Dakota State University and a Master’s degree in Biological Science from Western Governors University. She is a WDTC Academic Advisor, and member of the following: Curriculum and Standards Committee, General Education Assessment and Advisory Board, and Program Review Board for the Nursing, Phlebotomy and Medical Lab Tech program.

Her science background in the field includes working as the Pathology assistant for the Clinical Laboratory of the Black Hills and Fuel-Ade Laboratory Supervisor.

Kevin Klingbile

Adjunct Faculty


Kevin.Klingbile@wdt.edu


Education and Credentials

M.B.A. in IT Management at Western Governors University

B.S. in Specialization in General IT at Capella University

A.A.S. in Computer Network Security at Minnesota State Community and Technical College

Greg Kock

Diesel Technology Instructor

(605) 718-3062
Gregory.Kock@wdt.edu
B112


Education and Credentials

A.A.S. in Diesel Technology at Lake Area Technical College
Diploma in Small Business at Allied University
A.A.S. in General Studies at Mitchell Technical College
B.A. in Technical Leadership/Management at University of South Dakota

Bio:
Greg Kock earned a diploma in Diesel Technology & Management from Lake Area Tech and an AAS degree in Technical Studies from Mitchell Technical College. He is ASE Master Certified in Medium/Heavy Truck, holds ESCO A/C Certification Section 608, MACS A/C Certification Section 608, and is also OSHA certified. Kock has more than 20 years of experience in the diesel technology industry including experience as a heavy equipment mechanic, business owner, and instructor.

Jodi Kor

Team Leader
Program Director - Medical Laboratory Technician

(605) 718-2939
Jodi.Kor@wdt.edu
W131M


Education and Credentials

B.S. in Arts & Science at South Dakota State University

M.S. in Business Administration at Baker College

Certified Medical Technologist

Bio:
Jodi Kor began working for Western Dakota Tech (WDT) in the Medical Laboratory Technician (MLT) Program in 2017 and transitioned into the Program Director and Team Leader positions in 2018. Prior to working at WDT, Kor was a Laboratory Manager, Supervisor, and Medical Technologist with Regional Health for more than 20 years. She has a Medical Technologist Certification, ASCP, a Bachelor’s degree in Arts & Science from South Dakota State University, and a Master’s degree in Business Administration at Baker College. In her free time, Kor enjoys spending time with her family, trail riding, and skiing.

L

Nora Leinen

Foundation Director

(605) 718-2436
Nora.Leinen@wdt.edu
D116


Education and Credentials

B.A. in English from University of Minnesota

M.A. in English from Marquette University

Lori Libra

Accounting Coordinator

605-718-2408
Lori.Libra@wdt.edu
SS-D113


Education and Credentials

A.A.S. in Business Management at University of Phoenix

Dave Lingle

Photo of David Lingle.

Program Director - Diesel Technology & DT - Industrial Maintenance

(605) 718-2923
David.Lingle@wdt.edu
B106


Education and Credentials

ASE Certified - Diesel
ASE Certified Master Medium/Heavy Truck Technician

Bio:
Dave Lingle is the Diesel Technology Program Co-Director. He has been ASE Certified – Diesel since 1981.

Lingle has two years of undergraduate studies at the University of South Dakota/Springfield in Diesel and Power Controls Technology. He has worked for two John Deere dealerships and was a shop foreman at a Cummins dealership. Lingle spent the last 30 years as a Department of Defense Heavy Mobile Equipment technician, ending that career as a Mechanic Supervisor.

Lingle is Cummins engine certified, Section 609 certified for HVAC repair, a Master Service Technician for Bobcat, GM S.E.T certified, and OSHA supervisor trained.

Jason Linneweber

Automotive Technology Instructor

(605) 718-3063
Jason.Linneweber@wdt.edu
L109b


Education and Credentials

Certification Automotive Technology at Wyotech

Bio:
Jason Linneweber has twenty-plus years of Automotive experience in both dealership and independent repair facilities. He received his Automotive Technician Diploma from WyoTech’s Laramie campus. He has earned multiple credentials throughout his career, including several Automotive Service Excellence (ASE) certifications. These include ASE Master Automobile Technician, and Advanced Level Specialist certifications in Light Duty Diesel and Hybrid/Electric vehicles. Linneweber spent several years of his automotive career working in General Motors dealerships, earning master certifications throughout all areas.

Heidi Linngren

Adjunct Faculty


Heidi.Linngren@wdt.edu


Education and Credentials

B.S. in English/Elementary Education at Northern State University

J.D. in Education Law at University of South Dakota

Bio:
The Honorable Heidi Linngren is a Circuit Court Judge in the Seventh Judicial Circuit in South Dakota. She has served as a Law Clerk, Deputy Public Defender, and a Special Prosecutor for the Attorney General.  Judge Linngren has taught at the University of South Dakota and Black Hills State University at the undergraduate and graduate level since 2000. She has taught at WDTC since 2012. Judge Linngren has Bachelor's degrees in Education and English from Northern State University. She also holds a Juris Doctorate from the University of South Dakota. Judge Linngren teaches Constitutional Law and Court Proceedings. 

James Loverich

Program Co-Director - Architectural & Engineering Technology

(605) 718-2941
James.Loverich@wdt.edu
L214


Education and Credentials

B.S. in Mechanical Engineering at Northern Arizona University

M.S. in Engineering Mechanics at Virginia Tech

Bio:

James S. Loverich, Program Co-Director for the Architectural and Engineering Technology Program, is a Mechanical Engineering Technology instructor specializing in PTC Creo, Autodesk AutoCAD, and Autodesk Fusion 360. A graduate of Northern Arizona University with a Bachelor's degree in Mechanical Engineering and a Master's degree in Engineering Science and Mechanics from Virginia Tech, he is a Registered Professional Engineer in South Dakota. With a decade-long career as a mechanical engineer at Boeing Commercial Airplane Group, Wellstream, Inc., Sanmina-SCI, and RPM and Associates, Loverich transitioned to teaching in 2008.


Ashley Lowery

Adjunct Instructor


Ashley.Lowery@wdt.edu


Education and Credentials

B.A. in Nursing at Indiana State University
Diploma in Professionalism at Ogeechee Technical College

Sarah Ludes

Administrative Assistant II - Enrollment Services

(605) 718-2400
sarah.ludes@wdt.edu
SS-D104


Education and Credentials

A.A.S. in Library Technician at Western Dakota Technical College

M

Duane Martenson

Program Director - Accounting

(605) 718-2929
Duane.Martenson@wdt.edu
W236D


Education and Credentials

B.S. in Marketing at Black Hills State University

M.S. in Administrative Studies at University of South Dakota

Bio:
Duane Martenson is the co-program director for the Business and Accounting Programs. He has been teaching at Western Dakota Tech for more than 20 years. He has presented on using innovative technology-based teaching strategies at national conferences and was named a finalist for ATEA National Outstanding Technical Teacher of the year. He has his Bachelor’s degree in Marketing, a Business and Technology K-12 Teaching Certification from Black Hills State University, and a Master’s degree in Business from the University of South Dakota. Martenson has owned a business in the retail and service sector and currently owns and operates two businesses in the real-estate sector.

Skye Martin

Admissions Specialist

(605) 718 - 2964
Skye.Martin@wdt.edu
SS-D115


Education and Credentials

B.A. in Human Services from Dakota Wesleyan University

Sharon Martin

Assistant Director of Financial Aid

(605) 718-2422
Sharon.Martin@wdt.edu
SS - D119


Education and Credentials

NASFAA Return of Title IV Funds Credential

NASFAA Consumer Information Credential

NASFAA Gainful Employment Credential

NASFAA Professional Judgement Credential

NASFAA Direct Loan Credential

NASFAA Verification Credential

NASFAA Administrative Capability Credential

NASFAA Satisfactory Academic Progress Credential

NASFAA Federal Pell Grant Credential

NASFAA Cost of Attendance Credential

Stephanie Mayfield

Director of West River Area Health Education Center

(605)718-4077
Stephanie.Mayfield@bhsu.edu
BHSU at RC Campus, 4300 Cheyenne Blvd, Rapid City, SD 57703 Office 114D


Education and Credentials

    B.S. in Business Administration @ Dickinson State University

    Stephanie McCoy

    Adjunct Instructor




    Education and Credentials

    B.S. in Interdisciplinary Sciences at South Dakota School Mines and Technology

    M.A. in Interdisciplinary Sciences at The University of South Dakota

    Tamira McMeekin

    Adjunct Instructor


    Tamira.McMeekin@wdt.edu


    Education and Credentials

    Diploma in Medical Transcription at National American University
    B.S. in Human Services & Sociology at Black Hills State University
    M.S. in Administrative Studies at University of South Dakota

    Daniel McRae

    Electrical Trades Instructor

    (605) 718-4741
    Daniel.McRae@wdt.edu
    L201


    Education and Credentials

    Independent Electrical Contractor

    Electrical Journeyman

    Bio:
    Dan McRae is a Western Dakota Tech Electrical Trades Instructor. He has been with the college since spring of 2019.

    McRae started as an apprentice electrician with Freeman’s electric in 1995. He completed
    apprentice training with IEC and went on to teach classes there.

    McRae has wired houses, apartments, commercial, retail, banks, water treatment, and various other projects. In 2014, he became a service electrician with Muth electric. In this position, he worked on many electrical systems from complex control systems, mining sites, and hazardous locations, to residential and lighting retrofit projects.

    Emalee McRae

    Environmental Programs Lab Specialist

    (605) 718-2982
    Emalee.McRae@wdt.edu
    L212


    Education and Credentials

    A.A.S. in Environmental Engineering Technology at Western Dakota Technical College

    Bryan Mitchell

    Program Director - Electrical Trades
    Program Co-Director - Controlled Environment Agriculture

    (605) 718-2942
    Bryan.Mitchell@wdt.edu
    L223


    Education and Credentials

    A.A.S. in Industrial Electronics at Western Dakota Tech

    Electrical Journeyman's License

    Bio:
    Bryan Mitchell is the Electrical Trades Program Director. He started in the electrical industry in 2003 attending the Industrial Electronics program at Western Dakota Tech (WDT). Upon graduation, Mitchell worked locally until 2009, and earned his South Dakota Electrical Journeymen’s License.

    Mitchell then relocated to Wyoming where he installed new construction electrical systems before he left the installation side of the industry and took a position as an Electrical Technician for the Kiewit Mining Group’s Buckskin Mine.

    Mitchell then worked as a Service Engineer/Technical Service Representative position for the world’s largest manufacturer of electrical mining equipment at the time - P&H MinePro, then Joy Global, and now Komatsu Mining.

    Mitchell worked in this position until 2016 when he next entered the world of high-speed manufacturing as an Asset Care Response Team member for what was then MillerCoors, now MolsonCoors, at their brewery complex in Golden, CO.

    He worked in Colorado until he decided to take the education and experience at the top levels of the electrical industry back to where it all began and accepted a position as an Electrical Instructor for the WDT Electrical Trades Program, at WDT in 2017, and was promoted to Program Director not long after that same year. During his time at WDT, Mitchell has led the program and students to several prestigious awards including first place in the National Science Foundation’s Community College Innovation Challenge, in Washington D.C., in June 2018.

    Mitchell has Electrical Contractor/Master Electrician Licenses for Rapid City as well as at the S.D. state level. He also has an Electrical Journeymen’s license in North Dakota and a federal license through the Mine Safety and Health Administration (MSHA) as a “Qualified Person” under Part 77.103 which allows him to do electrical work in hazardous mining locations. Mitchell has had a Wyoming Mining Foremen License.

    Mitchell serves on the board of the South Dakota Electrical Council.

    He has worked summers off at WDT, leading a crew as a Project Foremen in the oil fields in North Dakota.

    Kylee Mulz

    Adjunct Instructor


    Kylee.Mulz@wdt.edu


    Education and Credentials

    B.S. in Elementary Education from University of South Dakota
    Dental Assisting Certificate from Rio Salado College

    Ann Murano

    Program Director - General Education - Computer Literacy

    (605) 718-2930
    AMurano@wdt.edu
    W236C


    Education and Credentials

    B.S. in Business Administration at Black Hills State University

    B.S. in Business Education at Black Hills State University

    Bio:
    Ann Murano is the Western Dakota Technical College (WDTC) Computer Literacy Program Director and a computer instructor in the General Education Program. She has been an instructor at WDTC since 1996. Murano taught in the Business Management & Marketing Program for 20 years before moving to the General Education Program.

    Murano has a Bachelor's degree in Business Administration with a Computer Programming minor and a Bachelor's degree in Secondary Business Education.

    Murano is also very active in the community. As an active P.E.O. member promoting women in education, she is proud that her chapter has awarded $44,000 in scholarships to WDTC students. She also serves on the Abbott House Board of Directors.

    Kelsey Murray

    Photo of Kelsey Murray.

    Program Director - Environmental Engineering Tech & Pharmacy Technician
    Program Co-Director - EET Controlled Environment Agriculture

    (605) 718-2992
    Kelsey.Murray@wdt.edu
    L156


    Education and Credentials

    A.S. in Respiratory Care at Dakota State University

    B.S. in Biochemistry at University of Minnesota - Twin Cities

    Ph.D. in Biomedical Engineering at South Dakota School of Mines & Technology

    Bio:
    Kelsey Murray, Ph.D., Western Dakota Technical (WDT) College Pharmacy Technology Director and Environmental Engineering Technology Director, has been full-time faculty at WDT since 2018.

    Dr. Murray received her A.S. in Respiratory Care from Dakota State University, B.S. in Biochemistry from the University of Minnesota-Twin Cities, and Ph.D. in Biomedical Engineering from South Dakota School of Mines and Technology. She has maintained a PTCB Certified Pharmacy Technician standing since 2006 and has 15 years of pharmacy-related experience.

    Dr. Murray is CEO and Founder of Crossover Biomedical, a genetics and genomics consulting company. Dr. Murray’s current research works to establish connections between the environment and human health, with emphasis on pathogenic and antibiotic resistance potential of microbes in surface and wastewater environments.

    She has previous research and diagnostic experience in behavioral pharmacology, molecular diagnostic testing and surveillance of veterinary infections agents, pharmaceutical sciences, and biomedical engineering. Selected projects include: Factors Effecting PCP Self-Administration in Rhesus Monkeys, Optimization and Characterization of Lipid-Polycation-DNA Nanoparticles and Lipoplexes for Lung Cancer Gene Delivery, Delivery of Smurf2, a Potential Tumor Suppressor Gene, and Establishing Gene Fingerprints of Pathogenic Bacteria in Rapid Creek and the Big Sioux River.

    Dr. Murray has been a keynote speaker/invited lecturer at more than 20 conferences and is the author of numerous reports, journal articles, laboratory manuals, and book chapters. She also serves on the Breadroot Cooperative, Live.Move.Be Farms, and South Dakota Public Health Association Boards of Directors.

    N

    Paula Nason

    Adjunct Instructor


    Paula.Nason@wdt.edu


    Education and Credentials

    B.S. in Psychology/Sociology at Black Hills State University
    M.S. in Psychology at Capella University

    Lydia Nemec

    Practical Nursing Instructor

    (605) 718-2919
    Lydia.Nemec@wdt.edu
    W131B


    Education and Credentials

    A.A.S. in Practical Nursing at Dickinson State University

    B.S. in Nursing at Dickinson State University

    M.S. in Nursing Education at Western Governors University

    Bio:
    Lydia Nemec is a Registered Nurse with a Bachelor’s degree in Nursing from Dickenson State University and a Master’s degree in Nursing Education from Western Governor’s University. Most recently, she worked as a clinical resource nurse in the Oncology department at Monument Health, as well as working as an Infusion RN at Rapid City Medical Center. Nemec has also worked as a Licensed Practical Nurse in Long-Term Care. She began teaching at Western Dakota Technical College in 2023.

    Duane Nestor

    Team Leader

    Program Director - General Education - Mathematics & Library Science

    (605) 718-2954
    Duane.Nestor@wdt.edu
    W236A


    Education and Credentials

    B.S. in Mathematics United States Naval Academy

    M.S. in Aeronautical Engineering at Naval Postgraduate School

    Bio:
    Duane Nestor is the Library Technician Program Director and a Mathematics Instructor in the General Education Program. He has been an instructor at WDTC since 2016. He has a Bachelor's degree in Mathematics from the United States Naval Academy and a Master's degree in Aeronautical Engineering from the Naval Postgraduate School. Nestor retired in 2009 from the United States Navy after a 30-year career and began teaching mathematics full time. He has teaching experience at the United States Naval Academy, University of Minnesota, and Thomas Nelson Community College in Hampton, Va.

    Diana Newman

    Director of Admissions

    (605) 718-2541
    Diana.Newman@wdt.edu
    D111


    Education and Credentials

    B.S. in Mathematics at University of Wyoming

    M.A. in Education at Virginia Polytechnic Institute and State University

    O

    Kristy O'Kief

    Financial Aid Coordinator

    (605) 718-2425
    Kristy.Okief@wdt.edu
    SS - D118


    Education and Credentials

    B.S., University of NE at Kearney

    M.A., University of Phoenix

    NASFAA Return of Title IV Funds Credential

    NASFAA Gainful Employment Credential

    NASFAA Direct Loan Credential

    NASFAA Verification Credential

    NASFAA Administrative Capability Credential

    NASFAA Federal Pell Grant Credential

    NASFAA Cost of Attendance Credential

    Kelly Oehlerking

    Vice President for Institutional Effectiveness and Student Success/Title IX Coordinator

    (605) 718-2931
    Kelly.Oehlerking@wdt.edu
    Admin - D206


    Education and Credentials

    B.S. in Business with an emphasis in Business Administration at Black Hills State University

    M.S. in Administrative Studies with an emphasis in Human Resources at University of South Dakota

    NASFAA Satisfactory Academic Progress Credential

    ATIXA Investigator Level One Credential

    John Olson

    Adjunct Faculty


    John.Olson@wdt.edu


    Education and Credentials

    B.A. in Criminal Justice at Moorhead State University

    M.S. in Administrative Studies at University of South Dakota

    Christine Ousley

    Program Director - Phlebotomy - Laboratory Assistant

    (605) 718-2912
    Christine.Ousley@wdt.edu
    W131N


    Education and Credentials

    A.A.S. in Medical Lab Technician at Hibbing Community College

    Certified Phlebotomist

    Bio:
    Christine Ousley started at Western Dakota Technical College (WDTC) in 2012. She instructs the first semester of the Medical Laboratory Technician program in which students can earn a Phlebotomy Certificate. Ousley came to WDT with more than 15 years of industry experience as a Patient Service Center Manager for Regional West Medical Center in Rapid City and as a Medical Laboratory Technician and Phlebotomist/Outpatient Services Coordinator in Minnesota. She received her A.A.S. in Medical Lab Technology from Hibbing Community and Technical College. She is Medical Laboratory Technician certified, ASCP. In her free time, Ousley enjoys spending time with her family, hiking, and traveling to see sloths.

    Stephanie Owens

    Adjunct Faculty


    Stephanie.Owens@wdt.edu


    Education and Credentials

    A.A.S in Business Administration at Chadron State College

    B.A. in Business Administration at Chadron State College

    P

    Ann Perry

    Adjunct Faculty


    Ann.Perry@wdt.edu


    Education and Credentials

    B.B.A. in Business Education at University of IA

    M.A. in Education Counseling at Northern State Univeristy

    Cozy Petersen

    Practical Nursing Instructor

    (605) 718-2920
    Cozette.Petersen@wdt.edu
    W131J


    Education and Credentials

    A.A.S. in Practical Nursing from Western Nebraska Community College

    A.D. in Nursing from University of South Dakota

    B.S. in Nursing from Walden University


    Bio:
    Cozy Petersen began her nursing career in 1991 as a Certified Nursing Assistant and then advanced through LPN and ADN to BSN. Her nursing experience includes Geriatrics, Home Health, Labor and Delivery, New-Born Nursery, Med/Surg, Ortho/Neuro, Operating Room, Dialysis, Clinical Instructor and Outpatient clinics. Petersen has also worked in leadership positions including Director of Nursing, Charge Nurse, and Preceptor. She began teaching at Western Dakota Technical College in 2023.

    Kathleen Phillips

    Adjunct Faculty


    Kathleen.Phillips@wdt.edu


    Education and Credentials

    B.S. in Criminal Justice at Ferris State University

    M.S. in Administration – Criminal Justice Studies at University of South Dakota

    Ryan Phillips

    Adjunct Faculty




    Education and Credentials

    B.S. in Animal Science – Missouri State University

    Michael Prugh

    Team Leader

    Program Director - Welding & Fabrication

    (605) 718-2926
    Michael.Prugh@wdt.edu
    L233


    Education and Credentials

    B.A. in Industrial Design at Metropolitan State College of Denver

    Bio:
    Michael Prugh is the Welding and Fabrication Program Director and has been a full-time faculty member for Western Dakota Tech (WDT) for six years. Prugh has a Bachelor’s degree in Industrial Design. He  serves as a Team Leader and is a member of WDT’s Persistence and Completion Committee. Prugh has more than 20 years of welding and fabrication experience to include being a successful business owner. In 2020, WDT’s Welding and Fabrication program earned the American Technical Education’s Association Outstanding technical Program Award.

    Q

    R

    Peter Ragnone

    Instructor - Criminal Justice

    (605) 718-2927
    Peter.Ragnone@wdt.edu
    W236G


    Education and Credentials

    B.S. in Criminal Justice at Ferris State University

    M.A. in Political Science at the University of South Dakota

    Bio:
    Peter Ragnone is a Criminal Justice Instructor at WDTC. He served as the Director of the Criminal Justice Program from 2017 through June 2023. He was an adjunct instructor at WDTC from 2007-2017. Ragnone has a Bachelor's degree in Criminal Justice from Ferris State University and a Master’s degree in Political Science from the University of South Dakota. He has taught Philosophy and Criminal Justice at the University of South Dakota and Black Hills State University since 2002. He retired in 2016 as a Lieutenant from the Rapid City Police Department after 25 years of serving in Field Services, Investigations, and Administration. Ragnone teaches Introduction to Criminal Justice and the Law Enforcement Academy.

    Rob Reagan

    Program Director - Business & Technology

    (605) 718-4743
    Robert.Reagan@wdt.edu
    W236D


    Education and Credentials

    B.S. in Business Administration at Black Hills State University

    M.B.A. in Business Administration at Webster University

    Bio:
    Robert Reagan is the Director of the Western Dakota Tech Business programs. The programs include Business and Technology, Entrepreneurship, Office Professional, Social Media Marketing and Hospitality. He has a Bachelor’s degree in Business Administration from Black Hills State University and a Master’s degree in Business Administration from Webster University. Reagan has been teaching in the Business programs for more than 10 years and brings 20 years of work experience in investments, real estate and entrepreneurship. Reagan has worked as a manager, financial advisor, small business owner (hotel, auto dealership, rental real estate), librarian and soccer coach.

    Sara Rembold

    Executive Administrative Assistant – VP for Institutional Effectiveness and Student Success

    (605) 718-2949
    Sara.Rembold@wdt.edu
    Admin - D225C


    Education and Credentials

    B.S. in Business Management Rocky Mountain

    Deborah Reynolds

    Adjunct Instructor


    Deborah.Reynolds@wdt.edu


    Education and Credentials

    M.A. in Tourism at Black Hills State University
    B.A. in Education at Black Hills State University
    A.A.S. in Tourism at Black Hills State University

    Wanda Roe

    Admissions Specialist

    (605) 718-2963
    Wanda.Roe@wdt.edu
    SS - D111


    Education and Credentials

    A.A.S., National American University

    B.S., National American University

    M.M., National American University

    Kurt Russow

    Program Director - General Education - Communications

    (605) 718-2932
    Kurt.Russow@wdt.edu
    W232


    Education and Credentials

    B.S. in English at Minnesota State University

    M.A. in English at North Dakota State University

    Bio:
    Kurt Russow is the Western Dakota Technical College (WDTC) Program Director of Communication. He has been an instructor at WDTC since Fall Semester 2010. He has a Master's Degree from North Dakota State University in English and a Bachelor's degree from Minnesota State University Moorhead in English Education. He has a passion for both writing and English Literature. Before WDTC, Russow taught first year English courses at North Dakota State University. He also has a history of volunteer grant writing for non-profits in the Black Hills area.

    Dorothy Ryan

    Adjunct Instructor


    Dorothy.Ryan@wdt.edu


    Education and Credentials

    B.M. in Music at University of Arizona

    M.M. in Music at Illinois State University

    M.A. in Information Resources & Library Science at University of Arizona

    S

    Noelle Simmons

    Senior Executive Assistant to the President and Secretary of the Board of Trustees

    (605) 718-2401
    noelle.simmons@wdt.edu
    Admin - D215


    Education and Credentials

    B.S. in Psychology at Washington State University
    M.A. in Community Counseling at Washington State University

    Beth Sparby

    Student Accounts Coordinator

    (605) 718-2540
    Elizabeth.Sparby@wdt.edu
    D143


    Education and Credentials

    Accounting A.A.S., Western Dakota Tech

    Bursars Lite Professional Certificate


    Pam Stillman-Rokusek

    Director of Strategic Communications & Marketing

    (605) 718-2970
    Pam.Stillman-Rokusek@wdt.edu
    SS - D122


    Education and Credentials

    B.S. in Journalism and Sociology at South Dakota State University

    National Council for Marketing & Public Relations Region 5 S.D. Representative

    Chutima Supboon

    Scholarship Outreach Specialist

    605-718-3064
    Chutima.Supboon@wdt.edu
    SS-D128


    Education and Credentials

    B.A. in Geography at Silpakorn University

    M.S. in Geography at Northern Illinois University

    T

    Olimpia Tilles

    Adjunct Faculty


    Olimpia.Tilles@wdt.edu


    Education and Credentials

    B.A. in French at Florida International University

    M.S. in Human Resources at Florida International University

    Ph.D. in Educational Leadership at Florida Agricultural & Mechanical University

    Bio:

    Olimpia Tilles has been teaching at Western Dakota Tech since 2017. She started her educational leadership career at Tallahassee Community College, Florida in 2013. With a Master’s degree in Human Resource Management, Tilles progressed from a Human Resources Specialist to a Business Analyst of Human Capital Management, in the Information and Technology Department. Tilles has a Ph.D. in Educational Leadership from Florida Agricultural and Mechanical University. She has worked as an instructor at Tallahassee Community College and Bryant and Stratton College - Online, and Black Hills State University. Tilles is a recipient of the National Association of African American Studies and Affiliates National Conference Award (2017), Florida A&M University Graduate Studies and Research Poster Competition (2015), Golden Key International Honor Society (2015), and the Holmes Scholars Organization Membership (2015). She  is currently an affiliate of several national educational and research organizations.


    Debbie Toms

    Vice President for Data Strategy and Enrollment Management

    (605) 718-2958
    Deborah.Toms@wdt.edu
    Admin D225D


    Education and Credentials

    B.S. in Elementary Education and Special Education at Northern State University

    M.S. in Curriculum and Instruction at Black Hills State University

    NASFAA Consumer Information Credential

    NASFAA Satisfactory Academic Progress Credential

    ATIXA Investigator Level One Credential

    Jennifer Tyre

    Data Support Technician

    (605) 718-2575
    Jennifer.Tyre@wdt.edu
    D227


    Education and Credentials

    A.A.S. in Computer Programming, Networking, and CAD at Western Dakota Technical College

    U

    Bill Urban

    Program Director - Precision Machining

    (605) 718-4704
    William.Urban@wdt.edu
    L114


    Education and Credentials

    A.A.S. in Welding and Fabrication at Western Dakota Technical Institute

    Bio:
    Bill Urban is the Drafting & Machining Technologies Program Director. He received his A.A.S. in Welding and Fabrication at Western Dakota Technical Institute. He began teaching at Western Dakota Tech in 2004.

    With more than 25 years of machining and fabrication experience, Urban has owned and operated his own business providing custom machining, fabrication, and manufacturing services to several industries. He has manufactured products for the Homestake Mine, as well as for the agricultural, logging, aviation, motorcycle, and advanced metal processing industries. His experience spans the spectrum of conventional and CNC machining and the use of CAD/CAM systems.


    V

    Anthony Verchio

    Adjunct Faculty


    Anthony.Verchio@wdt.edu


    Education and Credentials

    B.S. in English at Ball State University

    M.S. in Criminal Justice/Organizational Leadership at USD

    M.S. in Strategic Studies at US Army War College

    W

    Misty Watts

    Student Success Coach

    (605) 718-2960
    Misty.Watts@wdt.edu
    Library - D160T


    Education and Credentials

    B.A. in Communications/Philosophy from University of Tennessee at Martin

    Jeannie Wiege

    Practical Nursing Instructor

    (605) 393-5817
    Jeannie.Wiege@wdt.edu
    Whitewood Location


    Education and Credentials

    B.S. in Nursing at South Dakota State University

    Bio:
    Jeannie Wiege is a Registered Nurse and also received a Bachelor's degree in Nursing from South Dakota State University. She has worked for the last 15 years in the GI Department at Rapid City Medical Center. Previous to that, Wiege was a Long-Term Care Nurse for about 10 years at Northern Mt. Health Care in Montana.

    Fawn Wilde

    Director of the Western Statewide CTE Consortium

    (605) 718-2961
    Fawn.Wilde@wdt.edu
    Admin D226


    Education and Credentials

    B.S. in Psychology at Black Hills State University

    John Willis

    Adjunct Faculty


    John.Willis@wdt.edu


    Education and Credentials

    A.A.S. in Sociology at Gainesville State College

    A.A.S. in Intelligence Operations Support at Cochise College

    B.A. in Sociology at University of Georgia

    M.A. in Theological Studies at Liberty University

    CompTIA Security+ Certified

    X

    Y

    Z

    Christina Zweber

    Practical Nursing Offsite Coordinator/Instructor

    (605) 718-2980
    Christina.Zweber@wdt.edu
    W131L


    Education and Credentials

    B.S. in Nursing at South Dakota State University
    M.A. of Nursing Science at Capella University

    Bio:
    Christina Zweber is a Registered Nurse earning a Bachelor's degree in Nursing from South Dakota State University and a Master's degree in Nursing from Capella University. Most recently, she worked as the Medical/Orthopedic/Neurology/ Surgical Nurse Manager for Monument Health in Rapid City.

    Academics

    Angela Baker

    Instructional Support Coordinator

    (605) 718-2909
    Angela.Baker@wdt.edu
    Admin D222


    Education and Credentials

    B.S. in Business Management at National American University

    Donna Hanks

    Director of Instructional Support and Professional Development

    (605) 718-2951
    Donna.Hanks@wdt.edu
    Admin - D224


    Education and Credentials

    Bio:
    B.S. in Marketing at Southwest MN State University

    M.S. in Administrative Studies at the University of South Dakota

    Certificate in Instructional Design from Georgetown University School of Continuing Studies


    Bio:
    Donna Hanks was an instructor in the Business & Technology program for 14 years before transferring to the Academic Support Team in 2018.  She was our Instructional Technology and Design Specialist for 4 years and now serves as the Director of Instructional Support and Professional Development.

    Hanks has a Master's degree from the University of South Dakota in Administrative Studies with an emphasis in Organizational Leadership. She has a Bachelor's degree from Southwest Minnesota State University in Business Administration with an emphasis in finance and marketing. In 2021, she earned a certificate in Instructional Design from Georgetown University School of Continuing Studies.

    Hanks has a passion for education, leadership and her community. She is a graduate of Rapid City Area Chamber of Commerce Leadership Rapid City, has served as a board member for LRC, co-chair of Junior Leadership Rapid City committee and served as a volunteer for the Abbott House.

    In 2017, Hanks received the Rose Day Award during the International Women’s Day Presentation from Zonta Club of the Black Hills, honoring women for their community work and involvement.

    Tiffany Howe

    Vice President for Teaching and Learning

    (605) 718-2905
    Tiffany.Howe@wdt.edu
    Admin - D220


    Education and Credentials

    A.A.S. in Surgical Technology at Presentation College

    B.A. in Organizational Management - Biology at Ashford University

    M.B.A. in Project Management at Colorado Technical University

    M.B.A. in Healthcare Management at Colorado Technical University

    Adjunct Faculty

    William Armstrong

    Adjunct Faculty


    William.Armstrong@wdt.edu


    Education and Credentials

    B.A. in History/Phys Ed at Pacific Lutheran University

    M.Ed. in Guidance & Counseling/School Administration at South Dakota State University

    Bio:
    Bill Armstrong retired as a Captain from the Pennington County Sheriff’s Office after 20 years of service. He is a veteran of the United States Air Force and was stationed at EAFB. Armstrong has a Bachelor’s degree in History from Pacific Lutheran University and a Master’s degree in Education from South Dakota State University. He has taught in the Law Enforcement program at WDTC since 1998. Armstrong has also taught as an adjunct instructor in the Criminal Justice Program for the University of South Dakota since 2002. Armstrong now teaches Criminal Investigations, Criminology, Terrorism, and Firearms.

    Nicole Bisgaard

    Adjunct Faculty


    Nicole.Bisgaard@wdt.edu


    Education and Credentials

    B.S. in Mathematics at South Dakota State University

    M.A. in Education, Science/Mathematics at Chadron State College

    Hannah Bowman

    Adjunct Faculty


    Hannah.Bowman@wdt.edu


    Education and Credentials

    B.A. in Comm Studies & Theater at South Dakota State University

    M.S. in Communication Studies at SDSU

    Eric Boyda

    Adjunct Instructor


    Eric.Boyda@wdt.edu


    Education and Credentials

    B.A. in Wildlife and Fisheries Sciences from South Dakota State University
    M.A. in Biological Science & Statistics from South Dakota State University

    Chandra Calvert

    Director of Industry Relations & Grant Management

    (605) 718-2419
    Chandra.Calvert@wdt.edu
    L110


    Education and Credentials

    B.S. in English/Music Ed at University of Mary

    M.A. in English at Colorado State University

    Georgina Cavin

    Adjunct Faculty


    Georgina.Cavin@wdt.edu


    Education and Credentials

    M.B.A. at University of Sioux Falls

    B.S. in Accounting at National American University

    A.A.S. in Accounting @ National College

    Melissa Diedrich

    Adjunct Faculty


    Melissa.Diedrich@wdt.edu


    Education and Credentials

    M.B.A. in Business Administration at American Public University School

    B.S. in Business Administration, Tourism, and Hospitality at Black Hills State University

    A.S. in Computer Technology at Black Hills State University

    Tony Dobbs

    Adjunct Instructor


    Tony.Dobbs@wdt.edu


    Education and Credentials

    A.A.S. in Air Conditioning, Heating & Refrigeration Technology from University of Arkansas

    Mary Duncan

    Adjunct Faculty


    Mary.Duncan@wdt.edu


    Education and Credentials

    B.S. in Accounting at Southwest State University

    C.P.A.

    Bio:
    Mary R. Duncan,
    CPA, CGMA, has been an Adjunct Accounting Instructor at  Western Dakota Tech since 2018.  She has a Bachelor’s degree in Accounting from Southwest Minnesota State University and has been a Certified Public Accountant for more than 33 years. Duncan worked in public accounting for 15 years, where she did auditing, tax preparation and financial statements.  She was also the CFO of a non-profit community mental health center for 10 years, prior to becoming the Accounting Manager for the Rapid City Area School District - a position she has been in for the last 12 years. Duncan is a member of the South Dakota CPA Society and the American Institute of Certified Public Accountants.

    Carol Duncan

    Adjunct Faculty


    Carol.Duncan@wdt.edu


    Education and Credentials

    M.A. in English at University of Central Florida at Orlando

    B.S. in English at Black Hills State University

    Sidney Dunker

    Adjunct Instructor


    Sidney.Dunker@wdt.edu


    Education and Credentials

    Diploma in Licensed Practical Nursing at Southeast Technical College
    A.A.S. in Registered Nursing at Western Dakota Technical College

    Michael Elston, M.D.

    Adjunct Faculty

    (605) 718-2511
    Michael.Elston@wdt.edu


    Education and Credentials

    B.S. in Chemical Engineering at South Dakota School of Mines and Technology

    M.S. in Chemical Engineering at South Dakota School of Mines and Technology

    M.D., Sanford School of Medicine at Sanford School of Medicine, University of South Dakota

    Bio:
    Michael Elston, M.D., received Bachelor’s and Master’s degrees in Chemical Engineering at South Dakota School of Mines and Technology. He earned his Doctor of Medicine degree from the Sanford School of Medicine at the University of South Dakota and specializes in Family Medicine. Dr. Elson began working as a Western Dakota Tech Paramedic program Adjunct in 2018.

    Sarah Feldhaus

    Adjunct Faculty


    Sarah.Feldhaus@wdt.edu


    Education and Credentials

    M.L.I.S. in Library and Information Science at San Jose State University
    B.A. in General Studies at Dakota State University
    A.A.S. in Respiratory Care at Dakota State University

    Beth-Anne Ferley

    Adjunct Instructor


    BethAnne.Ferley@wdt.edu


    Education and Credentials

    B.S. in Business Administration, Marketing at Slippery Rock University

    M.B.A. in Business Administration at National American University

    Lyndee Fogelman

    Adjunct Faculty


    Lyndee.Fogelman@wdt.edu


    Education and Credentials

    LPN Diploma at Western Dakota Tech
    B.S. in Nursing at Presentation College
    M.A. in Nursing Education at Walden University

    Bio:
    Lyndee Fogelman received her Practical Nursing education through Western Dakota Technical College and has a Bachelor's degree in Nursing from Presentation College. Most recently, she has worked as a COVID-Relief School Nurse for the Meade County School District and as a Pre-Test Nurse for Black Hills Surgical Hospital.

    Linnea Grosz

    Adjunct Faculty


    Linnea.Grosz@wdt.edu


    Education and Credentials

    B.S. in Sociology at SD State University

    M.S. in Agency and School Counseling at SD State University 

    Joseph Guttierez

    Adjunct Faculty


    Joseph.Guttierez@wdt.edu


    Education and Credentials

    B.S. in Sociology & Psychology at Black Hills State University

    M.S. in Strategic Leadership at Black Hills State University

    Samantha Hunsaker

    Adjunct Instructor


    Samantha.Hunsaker@wdt.edu


    Education and Credentials

    Diploma in Licensed Practical Nursing at Southeast Technical College
    A.A.S. in Allied Health at Western Dakota Technical College
    A.S.S. in Registered Nursing at Western Dakota Technical College

    Megan Jenisch-Nagel

    Adjunct Instructor


    Megan.Jenisch-Nagel@wdt.edu


    Education and Credentials

    Diploma in Licensed Practical Nursing at Western Dakota Technical College
    A.A.S. in Allied Health at Western Dakota Technical College
    A.A.S. in Registered Nursing at Western Dakota Technical College

    Mark Kjellerson

    Adjunct Faculty


    Jared.Kerber@wdt.edu


    Education and Credentials

    A.A.S. in Electronics at North Dakota State College of Science

    B.A. in Business Administration at Minot State University

    M.A. in Administration at Central Michigan University

    Doctorate in Education Administration at University of South Dakota

    Kevin Klingbile

    Adjunct Faculty


    Kevin.Klingbile@wdt.edu


    Education and Credentials

    M.B.A. in IT Management at Western Governors University

    B.S. in Specialization in General IT at Capella University

    A.A.S. in Computer Network Security at Minnesota State Community and Technical College

    Heidi Linngren

    Adjunct Faculty


    Heidi.Linngren@wdt.edu


    Education and Credentials

    B.S. in English/Elementary Education at Northern State University

    J.D. in Education Law at University of South Dakota

    Bio:
    The Honorable Heidi Linngren is a Circuit Court Judge in the Seventh Judicial Circuit in South Dakota. She has served as a Law Clerk, Deputy Public Defender, and a Special Prosecutor for the Attorney General.  Judge Linngren has taught at the University of South Dakota and Black Hills State University at the undergraduate and graduate level since 2000. She has taught at WDTC since 2012. Judge Linngren has Bachelor's degrees in Education and English from Northern State University. She also holds a Juris Doctorate from the University of South Dakota. Judge Linngren teaches Constitutional Law and Court Proceedings. 

    Ashley Lowery

    Adjunct Instructor


    Ashley.Lowery@wdt.edu


    Education and Credentials

    B.A. in Nursing at Indiana State University
    Diploma in Professionalism at Ogeechee Technical College

    Stephanie McCoy

    Adjunct Instructor




    Education and Credentials

    B.S. in Interdisciplinary Sciences at South Dakota School Mines and Technology

    M.A. in Interdisciplinary Sciences at The University of South Dakota

    Tamira McMeekin

    Adjunct Instructor


    Tamira.McMeekin@wdt.edu


    Education and Credentials

    Diploma in Medical Transcription at National American University
    B.S. in Human Services & Sociology at Black Hills State University
    M.S. in Administrative Studies at University of South Dakota

    Kylee Mulz

    Adjunct Instructor


    Kylee.Mulz@wdt.edu


    Education and Credentials

    B.S. in Elementary Education from University of South Dakota
    Dental Assisting Certificate from Rio Salado College

    Paula Nason

    Adjunct Instructor


    Paula.Nason@wdt.edu


    Education and Credentials

    B.S. in Psychology/Sociology at Black Hills State University
    M.S. in Psychology at Capella University

    John Olson

    Adjunct Faculty


    John.Olson@wdt.edu


    Education and Credentials

    B.A. in Criminal Justice at Moorhead State University

    M.S. in Administrative Studies at University of South Dakota

    Stephanie Owens

    Adjunct Faculty


    Stephanie.Owens@wdt.edu


    Education and Credentials

    A.A.S in Business Administration at Chadron State College

    B.A. in Business Administration at Chadron State College

    Ann Perry

    Adjunct Faculty


    Ann.Perry@wdt.edu


    Education and Credentials

    B.B.A. in Business Education at University of IA

    M.A. in Education Counseling at Northern State Univeristy

    Ryan Phillips

    Adjunct Faculty




    Education and Credentials

    B.S. in Animal Science – Missouri State University

    Kathleen Phillips

    Adjunct Faculty


    Kathleen.Phillips@wdt.edu


    Education and Credentials

    B.S. in Criminal Justice at Ferris State University

    M.S. in Administration – Criminal Justice Studies at University of South Dakota

    Deborah Reynolds

    Adjunct Instructor


    Deborah.Reynolds@wdt.edu


    Education and Credentials

    M.A. in Tourism at Black Hills State University
    B.A. in Education at Black Hills State University
    A.A.S. in Tourism at Black Hills State University

    Dorothy Ryan

    Adjunct Instructor


    Dorothy.Ryan@wdt.edu


    Education and Credentials

    B.M. in Music at University of Arizona

    M.M. in Music at Illinois State University

    M.A. in Information Resources & Library Science at University of Arizona

    Olimpia Tilles

    Adjunct Faculty


    Olimpia.Tilles@wdt.edu


    Education and Credentials

    B.A. in French at Florida International University

    M.S. in Human Resources at Florida International University

    Ph.D. in Educational Leadership at Florida Agricultural & Mechanical University

    Bio:

    Olimpia Tilles has been teaching at Western Dakota Tech since 2017. She started her educational leadership career at Tallahassee Community College, Florida in 2013. With a Master’s degree in Human Resource Management, Tilles progressed from a Human Resources Specialist to a Business Analyst of Human Capital Management, in the Information and Technology Department. Tilles has a Ph.D. in Educational Leadership from Florida Agricultural and Mechanical University. She has worked as an instructor at Tallahassee Community College and Bryant and Stratton College - Online, and Black Hills State University. Tilles is a recipient of the National Association of African American Studies and Affiliates National Conference Award (2017), Florida A&M University Graduate Studies and Research Poster Competition (2015), Golden Key International Honor Society (2015), and the Holmes Scholars Organization Membership (2015). She  is currently an affiliate of several national educational and research organizations.


    Anthony Verchio

    Adjunct Faculty


    Anthony.Verchio@wdt.edu


    Education and Credentials

    B.S. in English at Ball State University

    M.S. in Criminal Justice/Organizational Leadership at USD

    M.S. in Strategic Studies at US Army War College

    John Willis

    Adjunct Faculty


    John.Willis@wdt.edu


    Education and Credentials

    A.A.S. in Sociology at Gainesville State College

    A.A.S. in Intelligence Operations Support at Cochise College

    B.A. in Sociology at University of Georgia

    M.A. in Theological Studies at Liberty University

    CompTIA Security+ Certified

    Assessment

    Tamara (Tami) Dewes

    Assessment Coordinator

    Instructor - General Education

    (605) 718-2984
    Tamara.Dewes@wdt.edu
    Admin - D225B


    Education and Credentials

    B.S. in Elementary Education at Dakota State University

    B.S. in Home Economics at South Dakota State University

    Bio:
    Tami Dewes earned Bachelor's degrees in Home Economics and Elementary Education from South Dakota State University. She has experience as a Program Director at Youth & Family Services, a Child Development Director for Rapid City Catholic Schools, and as a DataBase Manager/Technology Coordinator for Rapid City Catholic Schools. Dewes teaches in the General Education Department and is also one of WDTC’s Assessment Coordinators.

    Tiffany Howe

    Vice President for Teaching and Learning

    (605) 718-2905
    Tiffany.Howe@wdt.edu
    Admin - D220


    Education and Credentials

    A.A.S. in Surgical Technology at Presentation College

    B.A. in Organizational Management - Biology at Ashford University

    M.B.A. in Project Management at Colorado Technical University

    M.B.A. in Healthcare Management at Colorado Technical University

    Justin Jutting

    Assessment Coordinator

    Program Director - ET Autonomous Equipment Technician

    (605) 718-4703
    Justin.Jutting@wdt.edu
    Admin - D225A


    Education and Credentials

    A.A.S. in Automotive Technician at Western Dakota Tech

    A.A.S. in Transportation Technology at Western Dakota Tech 

    B.S. in Education at South Dakota State University

    M.B.A. in Business Administration at Chadron State College

    ASE Auto Master Certified

    ASE Medium Heavy Duty Master Certified

    Bio:
    Justin Jutting earned an Associate of Applied Science degree in Automotive Technician and in Transportation Technology from Western Dakota Technical College, Bachelor's degree in Education from South Dakota State University, and a Master's degree in Business Administration from Chadron State College. Jutting teaches in the WDTC Autonomous Equipment Technician Program and is also one of the college's Assessment Coordinators.

    Bookstore

    Business Office

    Christine Goldsmith

    Vice President for Finance and Operations

    (605) 718-2403
    Christine.Goldsmith@wdt.edu
    SS-D133


    Education and Credentials

    M.B.A. at San Diego State University - Imperial Valley Campus
    B.S. in Business Administration at California State University
    A.A. in General Studies at Santa Rosa Junior College

    Lori Libra

    Accounting Coordinator

    605-718-2408
    Lori.Libra@wdt.edu
    SS-D113


    Education and Credentials

    A.A.S. in Business Management at University of Phoenix

    Beth Sparby

    Student Accounts Coordinator

    (605) 718-2540
    Elizabeth.Sparby@wdt.edu
    D143


    Education and Credentials

    Accounting A.A.S., Western Dakota Tech

    Bursars Lite Professional Certificate


    Corporate Education Center

    Jay Banick

    Photo of Jay Banick.

    Program Director Professional Truck Driving

    (605) 718-2990
    Jay.Banick@wdt.edu
    B108


    Education and Credentials

    Bio:
    Jay Banick has been the Program Director for the Professional Truck Driving Program since 2018. He has 30 years of driving experience with 3 million safe miles. During his 30-year driving career, Banick assisted in training and mentoring new drivers, provided input and served as an advocate for company safety programs, and built decades-long relationships with customers.



    Chandra Calvert

    Director of Industry Relations & Grant Management

    (605) 718-2419
    Chandra.Calvert@wdt.edu
    L110


    Education and Credentials

    B.S. in English/Music Ed at University of Mary

    M.A. in English at Colorado State University

    Mark Cropley

    Truck Driving Instructor


    Mark.Cropley@wdt.edu
    B108


    Education and Credentials

    Bio:
    Mark Cropley started in the trucking industry in 1981 as a tow truck driver for a small company and later worked for WR Grace. In 1985, he became an independent trucker and later became a truck broker. At the peak of his company, he owned five trucks and five to seven brokered trucks depending on time of year. Cropley has all commercial driving endorsements including school bus. He closed his company in 2019 and began working at Western Dakota Technical College as an instructor in Fall 2022.

    Tiffany Howe

    Vice President for Teaching and Learning

    (605) 718-2905
    Tiffany.Howe@wdt.edu
    Admin - D220


    Education and Credentials

    A.A.S. in Surgical Technology at Presentation College

    B.A. in Organizational Management - Biology at Ashford University

    M.B.A. in Project Management at Colorado Technical University

    M.B.A. in Healthcare Management at Colorado Technical University

    Custodian

    Dining Services

    Gary Gregson

    College Dining Services Assistant

    (605) 718-2431
    Gary.Gregson@wdt.edu
    W167


    Education and Credentials

    B.A. in Music Education at Black Hills State University

    disability

    Disability Services

    EchoWorks

    Enrollment Services

    Mindy Bear

    Associate Registrar

    (605) 718-2957
    Mindy.Bear@wdt.edu
    SS-D132


    Education and Credentials

    Certification from Black Hills Beauty College for Cosmetology

    Jill Elder

    Director of Compliance and Financial Aid

    (605) 718-2411
    Jill.Elder@wdt.edu
    SS - D117


    Education and Credentials

    B.S. in Business Administration at National American University

    NASFAA Return of Title IV Funds Credential

    NASFAA Consumer Information Credential

    NASFAA Gainful Employment Credential

    NASFAA Professional Judgement Credential

    NASFAA Direct Loan Credential

    NASFAA Verification Credential

    NASFAA Administrative Capability Credential

    NASFAA Satisfactory Academic Progress Credential

    NASFAA Federal Pell Grant Credential

    NASFAA Cost of Attendance Credential

    Melissa Ginsbach

    Director of Program Development/Registrar

    (605) 718-2415
    Melissa.Ginsbach@wdt.edu
    SS-D130


    Education and Credentials

    B.A. in Human Services & Sociology at Black Hills State University
    M.A. in Psychology at University of the Rockies
    M.A.  in Business Administration at National American University

    Gina Kimball

    Admissions Specialist

    (605) 718-2966
    Gina.Kimball@wdt.edu
    SS-D106


    Education and Credentials

    B.S. in Education at Black Hills State University

    M.A. in Educational Administration at University of South Dakota

    Sharon Martin

    Assistant Director of Financial Aid

    (605) 718-2422
    Sharon.Martin@wdt.edu
    SS - D119


    Education and Credentials

    NASFAA Return of Title IV Funds Credential

    NASFAA Consumer Information Credential

    NASFAA Gainful Employment Credential

    NASFAA Professional Judgement Credential

    NASFAA Direct Loan Credential

    NASFAA Verification Credential

    NASFAA Administrative Capability Credential

    NASFAA Satisfactory Academic Progress Credential

    NASFAA Federal Pell Grant Credential

    NASFAA Cost of Attendance Credential

    Skye Martin

    Admissions Specialist

    (605) 718 - 2964
    Skye.Martin@wdt.edu
    SS-D115


    Education and Credentials

    B.A. in Human Services from Dakota Wesleyan University

    Diana Newman

    Director of Admissions

    (605) 718-2541
    Diana.Newman@wdt.edu
    D111


    Education and Credentials

    B.S. in Mathematics at University of Wyoming

    M.A. in Education at Virginia Polytechnic Institute and State University

    Kristy O'Kief

    Financial Aid Coordinator

    (605) 718-2425
    Kristy.Okief@wdt.edu
    SS - D118


    Education and Credentials

    B.S., University of NE at Kearney

    M.A., University of Phoenix

    NASFAA Return of Title IV Funds Credential

    NASFAA Gainful Employment Credential

    NASFAA Direct Loan Credential

    NASFAA Verification Credential

    NASFAA Administrative Capability Credential

    NASFAA Federal Pell Grant Credential

    NASFAA Cost of Attendance Credential

    Wanda Roe

    Admissions Specialist

    (605) 718-2963
    Wanda.Roe@wdt.edu
    SS - D111


    Education and Credentials

    A.A.S., National American University

    B.S., National American University

    M.M., National American University

    Facilities

    Faculty

    Todd Anderson

    Program Co-Director - Architectural & Engineering Technology

    (605) 718-2986
    Todd.Anderson@wdt.edu
    L214


    Education and Credentials

    A.A.S. in Computer-Aided Drafting at Western Dakota Technical Institute

    B.S. in Technical Occupations at Chadron State College

    Bio: 
    Todd Anderson, Program Co-director for the Architectural and Engineering Technology Program, is an architectural and civil design instructor specializing in the Autodesk’s AutoCAD, Revit and Civil 3D software. He received an A.A.S. in Computer-Aided Drafting from Western Dakota Technical Institute and a Bachelor's degree in Technical Occupations from Chadron State College.

    Anderson has worked in the Architectural Design industry for nearly three decades and has experience that spans multiple disciplines including the casino industry, and both residential and commercial building design. Throughout his career, he has helped with the design for over 100 casinos across the US, Canada and Mexico and has collaborated on many architectural design projects in and around the Black Hills area.

    William Armstrong

    Adjunct Faculty


    William.Armstrong@wdt.edu


    Education and Credentials

    B.A. in History/Phys Ed at Pacific Lutheran University

    M.Ed. in Guidance & Counseling/School Administration at South Dakota State University

    Bio:
    Bill Armstrong retired as a Captain from the Pennington County Sheriff’s Office after 20 years of service. He is a veteran of the United States Air Force and was stationed at EAFB. Armstrong has a Bachelor’s degree in History from Pacific Lutheran University and a Master’s degree in Education from South Dakota State University. He has taught in the Law Enforcement program at WDTC since 1998. Armstrong has also taught as an adjunct instructor in the Criminal Justice Program for the University of South Dakota since 2002. Armstrong now teaches Criminal Investigations, Criminology, Terrorism, and Firearms.

    Megan Ball

    Medical Laboratory Technician Instructor

    (605) 718-2913
    Megan.Ball@wdt.edu
    W131P


    Education and Credentials

    A.A.S. in Medical Laboratory Technology at Mitchell Technical Institute  

    B.S. in Medical Laboratory Science at South Dakota State University

    Bio:
    Megan Ball has worked as a Medical Lab Technician since graduating from Mitchell Technical College in 2005. She later completed her Bachelor’s degree in Medical Laboratory Science from South Dakota State University. In addition to being an MLT, Ball has been employed in various leadership roles including Lead Tech, Credentialled Trainer, Education Specialist, and Medical Laboratory Scientist. She began teaching at Western Dakota Technical College in 2023.

    Jay Banick

    Photo of Jay Banick.

    Program Director Professional Truck Driving

    (605) 718-2990
    Jay.Banick@wdt.edu
    B108


    Education and Credentials

    Bio:
    Jay Banick has been the Program Director for the Professional Truck Driving Program since 2018. He has 30 years of driving experience with 3 million safe miles. During his 30-year driving career, Banick assisted in training and mentoring new drivers, provided input and served as an advocate for company safety programs, and built decades-long relationships with customers.



    Abbie Barber

    Farm & Ranch Management/Meat Processing Programs Director

    (605) 718-3060
    Abbie.Barber@wdt.edu
    W2364-A


    Education and Credentials

    B.A. in Criminal Justice at Chadron State College

    Bio:
    Abbie Barber obtained her Bachelor’s degree in Criminal Justice from Chadron State College. She currently owns/operates an Angus cattle ranch in Western South Dakota. 

    In 2023, Barber became the WDTC Farm and Ranch program director.

    Troy Barry

    Photo of Troy Barry.

    Welding & Fabrication Instructor

    (605) 718-2989
    Troy.Barry@wdt.edu
    L223


    Education and Credentials

    Diploma in Welding/Manufacturing at Western Dakota Technical College
    AWS Certified Welding Inspector

    Bio:
    Troy Barry, a 2005 graduate of Western Dakota Technical College’s (WDTC) Welding Program, brings 14+ years of industry experience to classroom instruction. While a student, Barry was a S.D. State SkillsUSA Champion and now currently serves as the Vice President of the S.D. SkillsUSA Board of Directors. In 2022, he received the SkillsUSA S.D. Hall of Champions Award which is bestowed upon those who help youth develop the components of the Skills USA Framework in a changing world. Additionally, Barry was named one of five 2019 SkillsUSA Outstanding Career and Technical Educators and was honored at their national conference. In 2020, WDTC’s Welding and Fabrication program earned the American Technical Education’s Association (ATEA) Outstanding Technical Program Award. Barry was a 2020 finalist for the ATEA Outstanding Faculty Award.

    Danielle Beaulieu

    Photo of Danielle Ragnone

    Registered Nursing Coordinator & Instructor

    (605) 718-2916
    Danielle.Beaulieu@wdt.edu
    W131F


    Education and Credentials

    B.S. in Nursing at South Dakota State University

    M.S. Nurse Educator Specialization at South Dakota State University

    Bio:
    Danielle Beaulieu received her Bachelor of Science in Nursing and Master of Science, Nurse Educator Specialization at South Dakota State University. She began her health care career more than 13 years ago as a Certified Nurse Assistant while attending nursing courses.

    Following graduation, Beaulieu worked as a staff nurse, nurse preceptor, clinical teaching assistant, and nurse clinician. She began her career in academia in 2018 with Western Dakota Tech and has taught Medical Assisting, Practical Nursing, and most currently, Registered Nursing courses.

    Nicole Bisgaard

    Adjunct Faculty


    Nicole.Bisgaard@wdt.edu


    Education and Credentials

    B.S. in Mathematics at South Dakota State University

    M.A. in Education, Science/Mathematics at Chadron State College

    Jennifer Bonner

    Program Director - Medical Assisting Instructor

    (605) 718-2925
    Jennifer.Bonner@wdt.edu
    W131L


    Education and Credentials

    B.S. in Nursing at University of Arkansas for Medical Science

    M.S. in Nursing at University of Cincinnati

    Doctor of Nursing Practice at Frontier Nursing University


    Dr. Jennifer Bonner joined the faculty at Western Dakota Technical College in March 2022. She received her B.S. in Nursing from University of Arkansas for Medical Sciences in 2009, M.S. in Nursing from the University of Cincinnati in 2012 and M.S. in Midwifery from Frontier Nursing University in 2017, then her DNP in 2019 from Frontier. She has spent most of her nursing career in L&D and Postpartum, then as a Certified Nurse Midwife she enjoyed providing care for the women of the Black Hills and surrounding areas at Rapid City OB/GYN. She currently serves as the Program Director for the Medical Assisting program and teaches within the RN and LPN programs. 

    Joelle Boshart

    Program Director - Health Information Management

    Simulation Operations Specialist

    (605) 718-2918
    Joelle.Boshart@wdt.edu
    W131A


    Education and Credentials

    Certified Professional Coder - Coder II (CPC)

    Certified Professional Medical Auditor (CPMA)

    Certified Evaluation and Management Coder (CEMC)

    Bio:
    Joelle Boshart is the WDTC Health Information Management Program Director. She is a Certified Professional Coder. She began coding and billing in 1986 and over the years has worked in numerous medical practices and hospital settings. Specialties include Plastic and Reconstructive Surgery, Orthopedic Surgery, Colo-Rectal Surgery, General Surgery, Dermatology, Pulmonology, Neurology and Sleep Medicine, Pain
    Management and Rehabilitation, Anesthesiology, Internal Medicine, and Family Practice. In 2014, she was awarded “Compliance Champion” by Regional Health Corporate Responsibility for “Always striving to do the right thing”. In the past she has held Board seats with APSPA (Association of Plastic Surgery Physician Assistants) as Member at Large – West, Race for the Cure, Orange County Chapter as Member Secretary, and served as Treasurer for AAPC (American Association of Professional Coders) Rapid City Chapter from 2020-2021.

    Doyle Bouzek

    Photo of Doyle Bouzek

    Program Director - Automotive Technology

    (605) 718-2924
    Doyle.Bouzek@wdt.edu
    L109B


    Education and Credentials

    A.A.S in Advanced Automotive Repair at Lake Area Tech

    Bio:
    Doyle Bouzek is the Automotive Technology Program Director. He received his A.A.S in Advanced Automotive Repair at Lake Area Tech.

    Bouzek came to WDT as an adjunct in the fall of 2016 after closing his repair facility that operated for 14.5 years. He started his career as a Ford Service Technician for nine years before becoming a Service Manager in a Ford Dealership for seven years. After leaving the Ford Service Management position, he was hired by Snap-on Tools as a Technical Representative for five years before returning to Rapid City to open his own repair facility, which included two locations.

    Hannah Bowman

    Adjunct Faculty


    Hannah.Bowman@wdt.edu


    Education and Credentials

    B.A. in Comm Studies & Theater at South Dakota State University

    M.S. in Communication Studies at SDSU

    Eric Boyda

    Adjunct Instructor


    Eric.Boyda@wdt.edu


    Education and Credentials

    B.A. in Wildlife and Fisheries Sciences from South Dakota State University
    M.A. in Biological Science & Statistics from South Dakota State University

    Suzanne Brandt

    Instructor

    Practical Nursing

    (605) 718-2974
    Suzanne.Brandt@wdt.edu
    W131E


    Education and Credentials

    B.S.N. in Nursing at Morningside College

    Bio:
    Suzanne Brandt received her B.S.N. in Nursing at Morningside College in Sioux City, Iowa, in 1986. She worked in the Houston Medical Center and surrounding areas for the first 23 years of her nursing career in Neuro ICU, Cardiac Care Unit, Cardiovascular Recovery, and intermediate Care as a bedside nurse and nurse manager. She also assisted her husband in managing his chiropractic office. Upon moving to the Rapid City area in 2009, Brandt worked at Rapid City Regional Hospital for three years in Progressive Care Unit and Clinical Informatics before beginning her teaching career in the Western Dakota Tech Practical Nursing program in 2012.

    Timmi Bubac

    General Education - English Instructor

    (605) 718-2938
    Timmi.Bubac@wdt.edu
    L173


    Education and Credentials

    B.S. in Secondary English Education at BH State University  

    M.A. in English Literature at Colorado State University

    Bio:
    Timmi Bubac has a Bachelor’s degree in secondary English education from Black Hills State University and a Master’s degree in English Literature from Colorado State University. She taught English in the public schools in Colorado and College Composition courses for Colorado State University while attending graduate school. Most recently, Bubac taught English at Stevens High School.

    Rachael Burchell

    Dental Assisting Instructor

    (605) 718-2933
    Rachael.Burchell@wdt.edu
    W141


    Education and Credentials

    A.A.S. in Dental Assisting at San Joaquin Valley College

    Bachelor of Arts degree in General Studies from Southern New Hampshire University

    Bio:
    Rachael Burchell earned an Associate’s degree in Culinary Arts from South Central College in Minnesota and an Associate’s degree in Dental Assisting from San Joaquin Valley College in California. She is a Certified Dental Assistant with more than 10 years of experience in that role and most recently as an Office Manager.

    Chandra Calvert

    Director of Industry Relations & Grant Management

    (605) 718-2419
    Chandra.Calvert@wdt.edu
    L110


    Education and Credentials

    B.S. in English/Music Ed at University of Mary

    M.A. in English at Colorado State University

    Georgina Cavin

    Adjunct Faculty


    Georgina.Cavin@wdt.edu


    Education and Credentials

    M.B.A. at University of Sioux Falls

    B.S. in Accounting at National American University

    A.A.S. in Accounting @ National College

    Bryon Christian

    Computer Science Instructor

    (605) 718-3053
    Bryon.Christian@wdt.edu
    L173


    Education and Credentials

    B.S. in English and Education at University of South Dakota
    Axis Cameras Certified Network Video Professional
    Genetec Security Systems Omnicast and Synergis Technical Certification
    CompTIA Network+ Certified

    Bio:
    Bryon Christian is a Computer Science Instructor. He began teaching at WDTC in August 2022. He has a Bachelor’s degree in English from University of South Dakota. He spent 24 years as a high school English teacher and Technology Director.

    Bret Clark

    Program Director - Construction Technology

    (605) 718-3054
    Bret.Clark@wdt.edu
    L158


    Education and Credentials

    B.S. in Education at Black Hills State University

    Bio:
    Bret Clark is the Construction Technology Program Director. He received a Bachelor’s degree in Education at Black Hills State University. He taught in the Rapid City School District for five years. Clark then began his own construction company working primarily in western South Dakota, Wyoming and North Dakota. The main focus of his company was commercial construction and post frame construction, but it also branched out into the residential homes and concrete. After 15 years in construction, Clark began teaching the Construction Tech program at Western Dakota Tech in the Fall of 2018.

    Mark Cropley

    Truck Driving Instructor


    Mark.Cropley@wdt.edu
    B108


    Education and Credentials

    Bio:
    Mark Cropley started in the trucking industry in 1981 as a tow truck driver for a small company and later worked for WR Grace. In 1985, he became an independent trucker and later became a truck broker. At the peak of his company, he owned five trucks and five to seven brokered trucks depending on time of year. Cropley has all commercial driving endorsements including school bus. He closed his company in 2019 and began working at Western Dakota Technical College as an instructor in Fall 2022.

    Xavier DeBlieck

    Program Director - Plumbing

    (605) 718-2983
    Xavier.DeBlieck@wdt.edu
    L114


    Education and Credentials

    Bio:
    Xavier DeBlieck holds a Journeyman Plumbing License from the S.D. Plumbing Commission and has worked as a Journeyman Plumber and Plumbing Foreman since 2017.

    Tamara (Tami) Dewes

    Assessment Coordinator

    Instructor - General Education

    (605) 718-2984
    Tamara.Dewes@wdt.edu
    Admin - D225B


    Education and Credentials

    B.S. in Elementary Education at Dakota State University

    B.S. in Home Economics at South Dakota State University

    Bio:
    Tami Dewes earned Bachelor's degrees in Home Economics and Elementary Education from South Dakota State University. She has experience as a Program Director at Youth & Family Services, a Child Development Director for Rapid City Catholic Schools, and as a DataBase Manager/Technology Coordinator for Rapid City Catholic Schools. Dewes teaches in the General Education Department and is also one of WDTC’s Assessment Coordinators.

    Melissa Diedrich

    Adjunct Faculty


    Melissa.Diedrich@wdt.edu


    Education and Credentials

    M.B.A. in Business Administration at American Public University School

    B.S. in Business Administration, Tourism, and Hospitality at Black Hills State University

    A.S. in Computer Technology at Black Hills State University

    Mary Duncan

    Adjunct Faculty


    Mary.Duncan@wdt.edu


    Education and Credentials

    B.S. in Accounting at Southwest State University

    C.P.A.

    Bio:
    Mary R. Duncan,
    CPA, CGMA, has been an Adjunct Accounting Instructor at  Western Dakota Tech since 2018.  She has a Bachelor’s degree in Accounting from Southwest Minnesota State University and has been a Certified Public Accountant for more than 33 years. Duncan worked in public accounting for 15 years, where she did auditing, tax preparation and financial statements.  She was also the CFO of a non-profit community mental health center for 10 years, prior to becoming the Accounting Manager for the Rapid City Area School District - a position she has been in for the last 12 years. Duncan is a member of the South Dakota CPA Society and the American Institute of Certified Public Accountants.

    Carol Duncan

    Adjunct Faculty


    Carol.Duncan@wdt.edu


    Education and Credentials

    M.A. in English at University of Central Florida at Orlando

    B.S. in English at Black Hills State University

    Sidney Dunker

    Adjunct Instructor


    Sidney.Dunker@wdt.edu


    Education and Credentials

    Diploma in Licensed Practical Nursing at Southeast Technical College
    A.A.S. in Registered Nursing at Western Dakota Technical College

    David Eckmann

    HVAC/Refrigeration Instructor

    (605) 718-3075
    David.Eckmann@wdt.edu
    L201


    Education and Credentials

    Certificate for Sheet Metal Technician at Mitchell Technical College

    Bio:
    Dave Eckmann completed sheet metal training at Mitchell Technical College and spent 20 years in the sheet metal trade. He has also worked as a certified air and water balancer for 10 years. Locally, he worked at Rapid City Regional Hospital maintaining HVAC and refrigeration equipment and most recently worked at the Black Hills State University Center in the Maintenance department.

    Michael Elston, M.D.

    Adjunct Faculty

    (605) 718-2511
    Michael.Elston@wdt.edu


    Education and Credentials

    B.S. in Chemical Engineering at South Dakota School of Mines and Technology

    M.S. in Chemical Engineering at South Dakota School of Mines and Technology

    M.D., Sanford School of Medicine at Sanford School of Medicine, University of South Dakota

    Bio:
    Michael Elston, M.D., received Bachelor’s and Master’s degrees in Chemical Engineering at South Dakota School of Mines and Technology. He earned his Doctor of Medicine degree from the Sanford School of Medicine at the University of South Dakota and specializes in Family Medicine. Dr. Elson began working as a Western Dakota Tech Paramedic program Adjunct in 2018.

    Sarah Feldhaus

    Adjunct Faculty


    Sarah.Feldhaus@wdt.edu


    Education and Credentials

    M.L.I.S. in Library and Information Science at San Jose State University
    B.A. in General Studies at Dakota State University
    A.A.S. in Respiratory Care at Dakota State University

    Beth-Anne Ferley

    Adjunct Instructor


    BethAnne.Ferley@wdt.edu


    Education and Credentials

    B.S. in Business Administration, Marketing at Slippery Rock University

    M.B.A. in Business Administration at National American University

    Tonia Fischer

    General Education - Psychology/Sociology Instructor

    (605) 718-2936
    Tonia.Fischer@wdt.edu
    W232


    Education and Credentials

    M.S. in Administrative Studies at University of South Dakota
    B.S. in Human Services and Sociology at Black Hills State University

    Bio:
    Tonia Fischer has a double Bachelor’s degree in Sociology and Human Services from Black Hills State University and a Master’s degree in Administrative Studies from the University of South Dakota. Recently retired from the industry, Fischer worked 23 years with the State of South Dakota - five years as a Social Worker and 18 years in probation.

    Lyndee Fogelman

    Adjunct Faculty


    Lyndee.Fogelman@wdt.edu


    Education and Credentials

    LPN Diploma at Western Dakota Tech
    B.S. in Nursing at Presentation College
    M.A. in Nursing Education at Walden University

    Bio:
    Lyndee Fogelman received her Practical Nursing education through Western Dakota Technical College and has a Bachelor's degree in Nursing from Presentation College. Most recently, she has worked as a COVID-Relief School Nurse for the Meade County School District and as a Pre-Test Nurse for Black Hills Surgical Hospital.

    John Geiman

    Team Leader

    Program Director - Computer Science

    (605) 718-3052
    John.Geiman@wdt.edu
    L215


    Education and Credentials

    B.A. in Industrial Technology with emphasis in Drafting at Chadron State College

    Master in Cyber Security, Maryville University

    Bio:

    John Geiman is the Computer Science Program Director. He has worked at WDTC since February 2016. He has a Bachelor’s degree, Composite Major in Industrial Arts with an emphasis in Teaching Methods, Electronics and Drafting, from Chadron State College. Geiman recently earned a Master’s degree in Cyber Security from Maryville University. He has 24 years of experience in the Computer Science field.

    Travis Gerlich

    Welding & Fabrication Instructor

    (605) 718-4709
    Travis.Gerlich@wdt.edu
    L223


    Education and Credentials

    A.A.S. in Welding at Western Dakota Technical College

    Bio:
    Travis Gerlich is a 2007 graduate of Western Dakota Tech’s Welding & Fabrication Program and has been a Certified Welding Inspector with the American Welding Society since 2018. He has been welding in the mining industry for more than 15 years with 12 of those years spent at the Coeur Wharf Mine, where he started as a welder and worked his way up to Maintenance Supervisor.

    Mary Grassrope

    Program Co-Director - Paramedic

    (605) 718-2549
    Mary.Grassrope@wdt.edu
    W145


    Education and Credentials

    B.S. in Physics at SD School of Mines & Technology

    M.Ed. in Instructional Design at Western Governors University

    Paramedic, Advanced Medical Life Support, Prehospital Trauma Life Support

    Bio:
    Mary Grassrope has worked at Western Dakota Tech since 2015 and is the Paramedic Program Director. She received a Bachelor’s degree in Physics at the South Dakota School of Mines and Technology and a Master’s degree in Instructional Design at Western Governors University. Grassrope is a certified Paramedic and has additional certifications in Advanced Medical Life Support, Prehospital and Trauma Life Support. She is also a certified PALS/ACLS provider. 

    Thomas Gravatt

    Electrical Trades Instructor

    (605) 718-2943
    Thomas.Gravatt@wdt.edu
    L201


    Education and Credentials

    A.A.S. in Industrial Controls from Western Dakota Technical College
    A.A.S. in Electrical Technology from Southeast Technical College

    Bio:
    Thomas Gravatt acquired an Electronics Technology degree from Southeast Technical Institute in Sioux Falls in 2011. He continued his education at Western Dakota Technical College and received a degree in Industrial Wiring in 2013.

    Gravatt began his apprenticeship in Bozeman, Mont. He passed his Journeyman exam in 2019 and has more than 21,000 hours of electrical experience in the field. He has wired in industrial, commercial, and residential properties. His industrial experience includes the Bakken Oilfields, backup generators, and manufacturing. His commercial experience includes hotels, urgent cares, offices, and the Yellowstone Club Party Barn. His residential experience includes tiny homes, large custom homes, large multi-family dwelling units, etc. Tom began teaching for the WDTC Electrical Trades program in 2024.

    Linnea Grosz

    Adjunct Faculty


    Linnea.Grosz@wdt.edu


    Education and Credentials

    B.S. in Sociology at SD State University

    M.S. in Agency and School Counseling at SD State University 

    Joseph Guttierez

    Adjunct Faculty


    Joseph.Guttierez@wdt.edu


    Education and Credentials

    B.S. in Sociology & Psychology at Black Hills State University

    M.S. in Strategic Leadership at Black Hills State University

    Krista Hagemann

    Program Director - Surgical Technology

    (605) 718-2917
    Krista.Hagemann@wdt.edu
    W131C


    Education and Credentials

    A.A.S. in Surgical Technology, Rasmussen College, Moorhead, Minn.

    Certified Surgical Technologist

    Bio:
    Krista Hagemann received her A.A.S. in Surgical Technology at Rasmussen College in Moorhead, Minn. She has been a practicing Certified Surgical Technologist since 2010 and an Instructor at Western Dakota Tech since 2017. She became the WDT Surgical Technology Program Director in July 2021. Hagemann is an active member of the Association of Surgical Technologists (AST) and has served as Treasurer and Board of Directors for the South Dakota State Assembly. In 2021, she received the national AST Rising Star Constellation Award. Hagemann was the recipient of the 2019 AST Chris Keegan Conference Scholarship. She was a presenter at the 2019 AST Educator’s Conference.

    Richard Hamilton

    General Education - Math

    (605) 718-3056
    Richard.Hamilton@wdt.edu
    L173


    Education and Credentials

    M.S. in Mathematics at University of West Florida

    B.S. in Chemical Engineering at SD School of Mines and Technology

    Bio:
    Rick Hamilton earned a Bachelor's degree in Chemical Engineering from the South Dakota School of Mines & Technology and a Master's degree in Mathematics from the University of West Florida. Most recently, Hamilton was a high school math teacher for the Hill City School District for 13 years.

    Donna Hanks

    Director of Instructional Support and Professional Development

    (605) 718-2951
    Donna.Hanks@wdt.edu
    Admin - D224


    Education and Credentials

    Bio:
    B.S. in Marketing at Southwest MN State University

    M.S. in Administrative Studies at the University of South Dakota

    Certificate in Instructional Design from Georgetown University School of Continuing Studies


    Bio:
    Donna Hanks was an instructor in the Business & Technology program for 14 years before transferring to the Academic Support Team in 2018.  She was our Instructional Technology and Design Specialist for 4 years and now serves as the Director of Instructional Support and Professional Development.

    Hanks has a Master's degree from the University of South Dakota in Administrative Studies with an emphasis in Organizational Leadership. She has a Bachelor's degree from Southwest Minnesota State University in Business Administration with an emphasis in finance and marketing. In 2021, she earned a certificate in Instructional Design from Georgetown University School of Continuing Studies.

    Hanks has a passion for education, leadership and her community. She is a graduate of Rapid City Area Chamber of Commerce Leadership Rapid City, has served as a board member for LRC, co-chair of Junior Leadership Rapid City committee and served as a volunteer for the Abbott House.

    In 2017, Hanks received the Rose Day Award during the International Women’s Day Presentation from Zonta Club of the Black Hills, honoring women for their community work and involvement.

    Keeryn Hare

    Practical Nursing Instructor

    (605) 718-2921
    Keeryn.Hare@wdt.edu
    W132


    Education and Credentials

    B.A. in Nursing from University of South Dakota

    Bio:
    Keeryn Hare began working in the medical field when she was 19 as a nurse’s aide before starting nursing school. She graduated with her Bachelor’s degree in Nursing degree from the University of South Dakota in May 2022. Hare began her first job as a Registered Nurse at Monument Health working on the heart and vascular floors. She has also worked at Black Hills Regional Eye Institute as a Preop, OR, and PACU nurse. She began teaching Registered Nursing clinicals for Western Dakota Technical College in Fall Semester 2023 and then moved into a full-time nursing position in January 2024 in the Practical Nursing program.



    Chanin Hartnett

    Program Director - Dental Assisting

    (605) 718-3057
    Chanin.Hartnett@wdt.edu
    W141


    Education and Credentials

    B.A. in General Studies at Southern New Hampshire University

    A.A.S. in Pharmacy Technician Program at San Joaquin Valley College-Bakersfield, CA

    A.A.S. in Dental Assisting Program at San Joaquin Valley College-Bakersfield, CA

    Bio:
    Chanin Hartnett is the Director of the Dental Assisting program. She has register dental assisting certification in California and South Dakota, is a Certified Dental Assistant through DANB, and a Bachelor's degree in Business Administration from Southern New Hampshire University.

    Hartnett has been teaching in the Business and Dental programs since 2011 and brings five years of work experience in Dentistry.

    Dani Hersrud

    Surgical Technology Instructor

    (605) 718-2934
    Dani.Hersrud@wdt.edu
    W131C


    Education and Credentials

    A.A.S. in Surgical Technology at Western Dakota Tech
    B.S. in Occupational Education at Wayland Baptist University

    Bio:
    Dani Hersrud has an Associate of Applied Science degree in Surgical Technology from Western Dakota Technical College and a Bachelor's degree in Occupational Education with a specialization in Psychological Studies from Wayland Baptist University. She is a Certified Surgical Technologist and most recently worked at Black Hills Surgical Hospital.

    Mandy Hertel

    Program Director - General Education - Social Science

    (605) 718-2935
    Mandy.Hertel@wdt.edu
    W232


    Education and Credentials

    B.S. in Sociology & Psychology at Black Hills State University

    M.S. in Educational Psychology at Capella University

    Bio:
    Mandy Hertel is the Western Dakota Technical College Social Science Program Director overseeing Sociology and Economics. She started as a Sociology and Psychology Instructor at the college in 2012.

    Hertel has a Bachelor's degree in Sociology and Psychology from Black Hills State University and
    a Master’s degree in Educational Psychology from Capella University.

    Prior to her career as an instructor, Hertel spent 16 years dedicated to helping people with disabilities overcome adversity and reach life goals. This included direct support, case management, and director positions.

    In 2021, Hertel received the inaugural American Technical Education Association (ATEA) Impact to Technical Education Award.

    Hertel is a proud alumni of Leadership Rapid City and a founding member of the Rapid City Day of Excellence, Inc.

    Samantha Hunsaker

    Adjunct Instructor


    Samantha.Hunsaker@wdt.edu


    Education and Credentials

    Diploma in Licensed Practical Nursing at Southeast Technical College
    A.A.S. in Allied Health at Western Dakota Technical College
    A.S.S. in Registered Nursing at Western Dakota Technical College

    Kristen Hybertson

    Team Leader

    Director of Nursing

    Program Director - Practical Nursing & Registered Nursing

    (605) 718-2428
    Kristen.Hybertson@wdt.edu
    W131H


    Education and Credentials

    B.S. in Nursing at University of Wyoming

    M.S. in Nursing - Nurse Educator at South Dakota State University

    Bio:
    Kristen Hybertson has been teaching at Western Dakota Tech since August 2019. She received her B.S. in Nursing at University of Wyoming in 2007 and her M.S. in Nursing - Nurse Educator at South Dakota State University in 2018.

    Hybertson has worked at Monument Health Rapid City on the Progress Care Unit and the Heart and Vascular Unit as both a bedside nurse and a Clinical Resource Nurse since 2007.

    Megan Jenisch-Nagel

    Adjunct Instructor


    Megan.Jenisch-Nagel@wdt.edu


    Education and Credentials

    Diploma in Licensed Practical Nursing at Western Dakota Technical College
    A.A.S. in Allied Health at Western Dakota Technical College
    A.A.S. in Registered Nursing at Western Dakota Technical College

    Justin Jutting

    Assessment Coordinator

    Program Director - ET Autonomous Equipment Technician

    (605) 718-4703
    Justin.Jutting@wdt.edu
    Admin - D225A


    Education and Credentials

    A.A.S. in Automotive Technician at Western Dakota Tech

    A.A.S. in Transportation Technology at Western Dakota Tech 

    B.S. in Education at South Dakota State University

    M.B.A. in Business Administration at Chadron State College

    ASE Auto Master Certified

    ASE Medium Heavy Duty Master Certified

    Bio:
    Justin Jutting earned an Associate of Applied Science degree in Automotive Technician and in Transportation Technology from Western Dakota Technical College, Bachelor's degree in Education from South Dakota State University, and a Master's degree in Business Administration from Chadron State College. Jutting teaches in the WDTC Autonomous Equipment Technician Program and is also one of the college's Assessment Coordinators.

    Karie Kennedy

    Team Leader
    Program Director - General Education - Behavioral Science

    (605) 718-2928
    Karie.Kennedy@wdt.edu
    W236B


    Education and Credentials

    B.S. in Psychology, Sociology & Human Services at Black Hills State University

    J.D. in Law at University of South Dakota

    Bio:
    Karie Kennedy is the Western Dakota Technical College General Education Team Leader, Behavioral Sciences Program Director, and psychology and sociology instructor. She has been an instructor at the college since 2010. She taught full-time in the Paralegal Program for several years before transitioning to the General Education Program.

    Kennedy has a Juris Doctorate from the University of South Dakota School of Law and a Bachelor's degree from Black Hills State University in psychology, sociology and human services with an emphasis in community services.

    Kennedy was an Assistant City Attorney for the City of Rapid City and worked in private practice. She serves as a volunteer for the 7th Circuit Court Appointed Special Advocate Program (CASA) advocating in court for the best interest of abused and neglected children.

    Mark Kjellerson

    Adjunct Faculty


    Jared.Kerber@wdt.edu


    Education and Credentials

    A.A.S. in Electronics at North Dakota State College of Science

    B.A. in Business Administration at Minot State University

    M.A. in Administration at Central Michigan University

    Doctorate in Education Administration at University of South Dakota

    Michele Klapprodt

    Photo of Michele Klapprodt.

    Program Director - General Education - Biological Sciences

    (605) 718-2584
    Michele.Klapprodt@wdt.edu
    W141


    Education and Credentials

    B.S. in Biology & Health/ Phys Ed & Recreation at South Dakota State University

    M.S. in Biological Sciences at Western Governors University 

    Bio:
    Michele Klapprodt has been an instructor at Western Dakota Technical College (WDTC) since 1993. She began as an adjunct instructor teaching Anatomy & Physiology, Medical Terminology, Pathophysiology and Human Relations in the Workplace. She accepted a full-time position in 2018 as the Biological Science Program Director.

    Klapprodt has a Bachelor's degree in Biological Science from South Dakota State University and a Master’s degree in Biological Science from Western Governors University. She is a WDTC Academic Advisor, and member of the following: Curriculum and Standards Committee, General Education Assessment and Advisory Board, and Program Review Board for the Nursing, Phlebotomy and Medical Lab Tech program.

    Her science background in the field includes working as the Pathology assistant for the Clinical Laboratory of the Black Hills and Fuel-Ade Laboratory Supervisor.

    Kevin Klingbile

    Adjunct Faculty


    Kevin.Klingbile@wdt.edu


    Education and Credentials

    M.B.A. in IT Management at Western Governors University

    B.S. in Specialization in General IT at Capella University

    A.A.S. in Computer Network Security at Minnesota State Community and Technical College

    Greg Kock

    Diesel Technology Instructor

    (605) 718-3062
    Gregory.Kock@wdt.edu
    B112


    Education and Credentials

    A.A.S. in Diesel Technology at Lake Area Technical College
    Diploma in Small Business at Allied University
    A.A.S. in General Studies at Mitchell Technical College
    B.A. in Technical Leadership/Management at University of South Dakota

    Bio:
    Greg Kock earned a diploma in Diesel Technology & Management from Lake Area Tech and an AAS degree in Technical Studies from Mitchell Technical College. He is ASE Master Certified in Medium/Heavy Truck, holds ESCO A/C Certification Section 608, MACS A/C Certification Section 608, and is also OSHA certified. Kock has more than 20 years of experience in the diesel technology industry including experience as a heavy equipment mechanic, business owner, and instructor.

    Jodi Kor

    Team Leader
    Program Director - Medical Laboratory Technician

    (605) 718-2939
    Jodi.Kor@wdt.edu
    W131M


    Education and Credentials

    B.S. in Arts & Science at South Dakota State University

    M.S. in Business Administration at Baker College

    Certified Medical Technologist

    Bio:
    Jodi Kor began working for Western Dakota Tech (WDT) in the Medical Laboratory Technician (MLT) Program in 2017 and transitioned into the Program Director and Team Leader positions in 2018. Prior to working at WDT, Kor was a Laboratory Manager, Supervisor, and Medical Technologist with Regional Health for more than 20 years. She has a Medical Technologist Certification, ASCP, a Bachelor’s degree in Arts & Science from South Dakota State University, and a Master’s degree in Business Administration at Baker College. In her free time, Kor enjoys spending time with her family, trail riding, and skiing.

    Dave Lingle

    Photo of David Lingle.

    Program Director - Diesel Technology & DT - Industrial Maintenance

    (605) 718-2923
    David.Lingle@wdt.edu
    B106


    Education and Credentials

    ASE Certified - Diesel
    ASE Certified Master Medium/Heavy Truck Technician

    Bio:
    Dave Lingle is the Diesel Technology Program Co-Director. He has been ASE Certified – Diesel since 1981.

    Lingle has two years of undergraduate studies at the University of South Dakota/Springfield in Diesel and Power Controls Technology. He has worked for two John Deere dealerships and was a shop foreman at a Cummins dealership. Lingle spent the last 30 years as a Department of Defense Heavy Mobile Equipment technician, ending that career as a Mechanic Supervisor.

    Lingle is Cummins engine certified, Section 609 certified for HVAC repair, a Master Service Technician for Bobcat, GM S.E.T certified, and OSHA supervisor trained.

    Jason Linneweber

    Automotive Technology Instructor

    (605) 718-3063
    Jason.Linneweber@wdt.edu
    L109b


    Education and Credentials

    Certification Automotive Technology at Wyotech

    Bio:
    Jason Linneweber has twenty-plus years of Automotive experience in both dealership and independent repair facilities. He received his Automotive Technician Diploma from WyoTech’s Laramie campus. He has earned multiple credentials throughout his career, including several Automotive Service Excellence (ASE) certifications. These include ASE Master Automobile Technician, and Advanced Level Specialist certifications in Light Duty Diesel and Hybrid/Electric vehicles. Linneweber spent several years of his automotive career working in General Motors dealerships, earning master certifications throughout all areas.

    Heidi Linngren

    Adjunct Faculty


    Heidi.Linngren@wdt.edu


    Education and Credentials

    B.S. in English/Elementary Education at Northern State University

    J.D. in Education Law at University of South Dakota

    Bio:
    The Honorable Heidi Linngren is a Circuit Court Judge in the Seventh Judicial Circuit in South Dakota. She has served as a Law Clerk, Deputy Public Defender, and a Special Prosecutor for the Attorney General.  Judge Linngren has taught at the University of South Dakota and Black Hills State University at the undergraduate and graduate level since 2000. She has taught at WDTC since 2012. Judge Linngren has Bachelor's degrees in Education and English from Northern State University. She also holds a Juris Doctorate from the University of South Dakota. Judge Linngren teaches Constitutional Law and Court Proceedings. 

    James Loverich

    Program Co-Director - Architectural & Engineering Technology

    (605) 718-2941
    James.Loverich@wdt.edu
    L214


    Education and Credentials

    B.S. in Mechanical Engineering at Northern Arizona University

    M.S. in Engineering Mechanics at Virginia Tech

    Bio:

    James S. Loverich, Program Co-Director for the Architectural and Engineering Technology Program, is a Mechanical Engineering Technology instructor specializing in PTC Creo, Autodesk AutoCAD, and Autodesk Fusion 360. A graduate of Northern Arizona University with a Bachelor's degree in Mechanical Engineering and a Master's degree in Engineering Science and Mechanics from Virginia Tech, he is a Registered Professional Engineer in South Dakota. With a decade-long career as a mechanical engineer at Boeing Commercial Airplane Group, Wellstream, Inc., Sanmina-SCI, and RPM and Associates, Loverich transitioned to teaching in 2008.


    Ashley Lowery

    Adjunct Instructor


    Ashley.Lowery@wdt.edu


    Education and Credentials

    B.A. in Nursing at Indiana State University
    Diploma in Professionalism at Ogeechee Technical College

    Duane Martenson

    Program Director - Accounting

    (605) 718-2929
    Duane.Martenson@wdt.edu
    W236D


    Education and Credentials

    B.S. in Marketing at Black Hills State University

    M.S. in Administrative Studies at University of South Dakota

    Bio:
    Duane Martenson is the co-program director for the Business and Accounting Programs. He has been teaching at Western Dakota Tech for more than 20 years. He has presented on using innovative technology-based teaching strategies at national conferences and was named a finalist for ATEA National Outstanding Technical Teacher of the year. He has his Bachelor’s degree in Marketing, a Business and Technology K-12 Teaching Certification from Black Hills State University, and a Master’s degree in Business from the University of South Dakota. Martenson has owned a business in the retail and service sector and currently owns and operates two businesses in the real-estate sector.

    Stephanie McCoy

    Adjunct Instructor




    Education and Credentials

    B.S. in Interdisciplinary Sciences at South Dakota School Mines and Technology

    M.A. in Interdisciplinary Sciences at The University of South Dakota

    Tamira McMeekin

    Adjunct Instructor


    Tamira.McMeekin@wdt.edu


    Education and Credentials

    Diploma in Medical Transcription at National American University
    B.S. in Human Services & Sociology at Black Hills State University
    M.S. in Administrative Studies at University of South Dakota

    Daniel McRae

    Electrical Trades Instructor

    (605) 718-4741
    Daniel.McRae@wdt.edu
    L201


    Education and Credentials

    Independent Electrical Contractor

    Electrical Journeyman

    Bio:
    Dan McRae is a Western Dakota Tech Electrical Trades Instructor. He has been with the college since spring of 2019.

    McRae started as an apprentice electrician with Freeman’s electric in 1995. He completed
    apprentice training with IEC and went on to teach classes there.

    McRae has wired houses, apartments, commercial, retail, banks, water treatment, and various other projects. In 2014, he became a service electrician with Muth electric. In this position, he worked on many electrical systems from complex control systems, mining sites, and hazardous locations, to residential and lighting retrofit projects.

    Bryan Mitchell

    Program Director - Electrical Trades
    Program Co-Director - Controlled Environment Agriculture

    (605) 718-2942
    Bryan.Mitchell@wdt.edu
    L223


    Education and Credentials

    A.A.S. in Industrial Electronics at Western Dakota Tech

    Electrical Journeyman's License

    Bio:
    Bryan Mitchell is the Electrical Trades Program Director. He started in the electrical industry in 2003 attending the Industrial Electronics program at Western Dakota Tech (WDT). Upon graduation, Mitchell worked locally until 2009, and earned his South Dakota Electrical Journeymen’s License.

    Mitchell then relocated to Wyoming where he installed new construction electrical systems before he left the installation side of the industry and took a position as an Electrical Technician for the Kiewit Mining Group’s Buckskin Mine.

    Mitchell then worked as a Service Engineer/Technical Service Representative position for the world’s largest manufacturer of electrical mining equipment at the time - P&H MinePro, then Joy Global, and now Komatsu Mining.

    Mitchell worked in this position until 2016 when he next entered the world of high-speed manufacturing as an Asset Care Response Team member for what was then MillerCoors, now MolsonCoors, at their brewery complex in Golden, CO.

    He worked in Colorado until he decided to take the education and experience at the top levels of the electrical industry back to where it all began and accepted a position as an Electrical Instructor for the WDT Electrical Trades Program, at WDT in 2017, and was promoted to Program Director not long after that same year. During his time at WDT, Mitchell has led the program and students to several prestigious awards including first place in the National Science Foundation’s Community College Innovation Challenge, in Washington D.C., in June 2018.

    Mitchell has Electrical Contractor/Master Electrician Licenses for Rapid City as well as at the S.D. state level. He also has an Electrical Journeymen’s license in North Dakota and a federal license through the Mine Safety and Health Administration (MSHA) as a “Qualified Person” under Part 77.103 which allows him to do electrical work in hazardous mining locations. Mitchell has had a Wyoming Mining Foremen License.

    Mitchell serves on the board of the South Dakota Electrical Council.

    He has worked summers off at WDT, leading a crew as a Project Foremen in the oil fields in North Dakota.

    Kylee Mulz

    Adjunct Instructor


    Kylee.Mulz@wdt.edu


    Education and Credentials

    B.S. in Elementary Education from University of South Dakota
    Dental Assisting Certificate from Rio Salado College

    Ann Murano

    Program Director - General Education - Computer Literacy

    (605) 718-2930
    AMurano@wdt.edu
    W236C


    Education and Credentials

    B.S. in Business Administration at Black Hills State University

    B.S. in Business Education at Black Hills State University

    Bio:
    Ann Murano is the Western Dakota Technical College (WDTC) Computer Literacy Program Director and a computer instructor in the General Education Program. She has been an instructor at WDTC since 1996. Murano taught in the Business Management & Marketing Program for 20 years before moving to the General Education Program.

    Murano has a Bachelor's degree in Business Administration with a Computer Programming minor and a Bachelor's degree in Secondary Business Education.

    Murano is also very active in the community. As an active P.E.O. member promoting women in education, she is proud that her chapter has awarded $44,000 in scholarships to WDTC students. She also serves on the Abbott House Board of Directors.

    Kelsey Murray

    Photo of Kelsey Murray.

    Program Director - Environmental Engineering Tech & Pharmacy Technician
    Program Co-Director - EET Controlled Environment Agriculture

    (605) 718-2992
    Kelsey.Murray@wdt.edu
    L156


    Education and Credentials

    A.S. in Respiratory Care at Dakota State University

    B.S. in Biochemistry at University of Minnesota - Twin Cities

    Ph.D. in Biomedical Engineering at South Dakota School of Mines & Technology

    Bio:
    Kelsey Murray, Ph.D., Western Dakota Technical (WDT) College Pharmacy Technology Director and Environmental Engineering Technology Director, has been full-time faculty at WDT since 2018.

    Dr. Murray received her A.S. in Respiratory Care from Dakota State University, B.S. in Biochemistry from the University of Minnesota-Twin Cities, and Ph.D. in Biomedical Engineering from South Dakota School of Mines and Technology. She has maintained a PTCB Certified Pharmacy Technician standing since 2006 and has 15 years of pharmacy-related experience.

    Dr. Murray is CEO and Founder of Crossover Biomedical, a genetics and genomics consulting company. Dr. Murray’s current research works to establish connections between the environment and human health, with emphasis on pathogenic and antibiotic resistance potential of microbes in surface and wastewater environments.

    She has previous research and diagnostic experience in behavioral pharmacology, molecular diagnostic testing and surveillance of veterinary infections agents, pharmaceutical sciences, and biomedical engineering. Selected projects include: Factors Effecting PCP Self-Administration in Rhesus Monkeys, Optimization and Characterization of Lipid-Polycation-DNA Nanoparticles and Lipoplexes for Lung Cancer Gene Delivery, Delivery of Smurf2, a Potential Tumor Suppressor Gene, and Establishing Gene Fingerprints of Pathogenic Bacteria in Rapid Creek and the Big Sioux River.

    Dr. Murray has been a keynote speaker/invited lecturer at more than 20 conferences and is the author of numerous reports, journal articles, laboratory manuals, and book chapters. She also serves on the Breadroot Cooperative, Live.Move.Be Farms, and South Dakota Public Health Association Boards of Directors.

    Paula Nason

    Adjunct Instructor


    Paula.Nason@wdt.edu


    Education and Credentials

    B.S. in Psychology/Sociology at Black Hills State University
    M.S. in Psychology at Capella University

    Lydia Nemec

    Practical Nursing Instructor

    (605) 718-2919
    Lydia.Nemec@wdt.edu
    W131B


    Education and Credentials

    A.A.S. in Practical Nursing at Dickinson State University

    B.S. in Nursing at Dickinson State University

    M.S. in Nursing Education at Western Governors University

    Bio:
    Lydia Nemec is a Registered Nurse with a Bachelor’s degree in Nursing from Dickenson State University and a Master’s degree in Nursing Education from Western Governor’s University. Most recently, she worked as a clinical resource nurse in the Oncology department at Monument Health, as well as working as an Infusion RN at Rapid City Medical Center. Nemec has also worked as a Licensed Practical Nurse in Long-Term Care. She began teaching at Western Dakota Technical College in 2023.

    Duane Nestor

    Team Leader

    Program Director - General Education - Mathematics & Library Science

    (605) 718-2954
    Duane.Nestor@wdt.edu
    W236A


    Education and Credentials

    B.S. in Mathematics United States Naval Academy

    M.S. in Aeronautical Engineering at Naval Postgraduate School

    Bio:
    Duane Nestor is the Library Technician Program Director and a Mathematics Instructor in the General Education Program. He has been an instructor at WDTC since 2016. He has a Bachelor's degree in Mathematics from the United States Naval Academy and a Master's degree in Aeronautical Engineering from the Naval Postgraduate School. Nestor retired in 2009 from the United States Navy after a 30-year career and began teaching mathematics full time. He has teaching experience at the United States Naval Academy, University of Minnesota, and Thomas Nelson Community College in Hampton, Va.

    John Olson

    Adjunct Faculty


    John.Olson@wdt.edu


    Education and Credentials

    B.A. in Criminal Justice at Moorhead State University

    M.S. in Administrative Studies at University of South Dakota

    Christine Ousley

    Program Director - Phlebotomy - Laboratory Assistant

    (605) 718-2912
    Christine.Ousley@wdt.edu
    W131N


    Education and Credentials

    A.A.S. in Medical Lab Technician at Hibbing Community College

    Certified Phlebotomist

    Bio:
    Christine Ousley started at Western Dakota Technical College (WDTC) in 2012. She instructs the first semester of the Medical Laboratory Technician program in which students can earn a Phlebotomy Certificate. Ousley came to WDT with more than 15 years of industry experience as a Patient Service Center Manager for Regional West Medical Center in Rapid City and as a Medical Laboratory Technician and Phlebotomist/Outpatient Services Coordinator in Minnesota. She received her A.A.S. in Medical Lab Technology from Hibbing Community and Technical College. She is Medical Laboratory Technician certified, ASCP. In her free time, Ousley enjoys spending time with her family, hiking, and traveling to see sloths.

    Stephanie Owens

    Adjunct Faculty


    Stephanie.Owens@wdt.edu


    Education and Credentials

    A.A.S in Business Administration at Chadron State College

    B.A. in Business Administration at Chadron State College

    Ann Perry

    Adjunct Faculty


    Ann.Perry@wdt.edu


    Education and Credentials

    B.B.A. in Business Education at University of IA

    M.A. in Education Counseling at Northern State Univeristy

    Cozy Petersen

    Practical Nursing Instructor

    (605) 718-2920
    Cozette.Petersen@wdt.edu
    W131J


    Education and Credentials

    A.A.S. in Practical Nursing from Western Nebraska Community College

    A.D. in Nursing from University of South Dakota

    B.S. in Nursing from Walden University


    Bio:
    Cozy Petersen began her nursing career in 1991 as a Certified Nursing Assistant and then advanced through LPN and ADN to BSN. Her nursing experience includes Geriatrics, Home Health, Labor and Delivery, New-Born Nursery, Med/Surg, Ortho/Neuro, Operating Room, Dialysis, Clinical Instructor and Outpatient clinics. Petersen has also worked in leadership positions including Director of Nursing, Charge Nurse, and Preceptor. She began teaching at Western Dakota Technical College in 2023.

    Ryan Phillips

    Adjunct Faculty




    Education and Credentials

    B.S. in Animal Science – Missouri State University

    Kathleen Phillips

    Adjunct Faculty


    Kathleen.Phillips@wdt.edu


    Education and Credentials

    B.S. in Criminal Justice at Ferris State University

    M.S. in Administration – Criminal Justice Studies at University of South Dakota

    Michael Prugh

    Team Leader

    Program Director - Welding & Fabrication

    (605) 718-2926
    Michael.Prugh@wdt.edu
    L233


    Education and Credentials

    B.A. in Industrial Design at Metropolitan State College of Denver

    Bio:
    Michael Prugh is the Welding and Fabrication Program Director and has been a full-time faculty member for Western Dakota Tech (WDT) for six years. Prugh has a Bachelor’s degree in Industrial Design. He  serves as a Team Leader and is a member of WDT’s Persistence and Completion Committee. Prugh has more than 20 years of welding and fabrication experience to include being a successful business owner. In 2020, WDT’s Welding and Fabrication program earned the American Technical Education’s Association Outstanding technical Program Award.

    Peter Ragnone

    Instructor - Criminal Justice

    (605) 718-2927
    Peter.Ragnone@wdt.edu
    W236G


    Education and Credentials

    B.S. in Criminal Justice at Ferris State University

    M.A. in Political Science at the University of South Dakota

    Bio:
    Peter Ragnone is a Criminal Justice Instructor at WDTC. He served as the Director of the Criminal Justice Program from 2017 through June 2023. He was an adjunct instructor at WDTC from 2007-2017. Ragnone has a Bachelor's degree in Criminal Justice from Ferris State University and a Master’s degree in Political Science from the University of South Dakota. He has taught Philosophy and Criminal Justice at the University of South Dakota and Black Hills State University since 2002. He retired in 2016 as a Lieutenant from the Rapid City Police Department after 25 years of serving in Field Services, Investigations, and Administration. Ragnone teaches Introduction to Criminal Justice and the Law Enforcement Academy.

    Rob Reagan

    Program Director - Business & Technology

    (605) 718-4743
    Robert.Reagan@wdt.edu
    W236D


    Education and Credentials

    B.S. in Business Administration at Black Hills State University

    M.B.A. in Business Administration at Webster University

    Bio:
    Robert Reagan is the Director of the Western Dakota Tech Business programs. The programs include Business and Technology, Entrepreneurship, Office Professional, Social Media Marketing and Hospitality. He has a Bachelor’s degree in Business Administration from Black Hills State University and a Master’s degree in Business Administration from Webster University. Reagan has been teaching in the Business programs for more than 10 years and brings 20 years of work experience in investments, real estate and entrepreneurship. Reagan has worked as a manager, financial advisor, small business owner (hotel, auto dealership, rental real estate), librarian and soccer coach.

    Deborah Reynolds

    Adjunct Instructor


    Deborah.Reynolds@wdt.edu


    Education and Credentials

    M.A. in Tourism at Black Hills State University
    B.A. in Education at Black Hills State University
    A.A.S. in Tourism at Black Hills State University

    Kurt Russow

    Program Director - General Education - Communications

    (605) 718-2932
    Kurt.Russow@wdt.edu
    W232


    Education and Credentials

    B.S. in English at Minnesota State University

    M.A. in English at North Dakota State University

    Bio:
    Kurt Russow is the Western Dakota Technical College (WDTC) Program Director of Communication. He has been an instructor at WDTC since Fall Semester 2010. He has a Master's Degree from North Dakota State University in English and a Bachelor's degree from Minnesota State University Moorhead in English Education. He has a passion for both writing and English Literature. Before WDTC, Russow taught first year English courses at North Dakota State University. He also has a history of volunteer grant writing for non-profits in the Black Hills area.

    Bill Urban

    Program Director - Precision Machining

    (605) 718-4704
    William.Urban@wdt.edu
    L114


    Education and Credentials

    A.A.S. in Welding and Fabrication at Western Dakota Technical Institute

    Bio:
    Bill Urban is the Drafting & Machining Technologies Program Director. He received his A.A.S. in Welding and Fabrication at Western Dakota Technical Institute. He began teaching at Western Dakota Tech in 2004.

    With more than 25 years of machining and fabrication experience, Urban has owned and operated his own business providing custom machining, fabrication, and manufacturing services to several industries. He has manufactured products for the Homestake Mine, as well as for the agricultural, logging, aviation, motorcycle, and advanced metal processing industries. His experience spans the spectrum of conventional and CNC machining and the use of CAD/CAM systems.


    Anthony Verchio

    Adjunct Faculty


    Anthony.Verchio@wdt.edu


    Education and Credentials

    B.S. in English at Ball State University

    M.S. in Criminal Justice/Organizational Leadership at USD

    M.S. in Strategic Studies at US Army War College

    Jeannie Wiege

    Practical Nursing Instructor

    (605) 393-5817
    Jeannie.Wiege@wdt.edu
    Whitewood Location


    Education and Credentials

    B.S. in Nursing at South Dakota State University

    Bio:
    Jeannie Wiege is a Registered Nurse and also received a Bachelor's degree in Nursing from South Dakota State University. She has worked for the last 15 years in the GI Department at Rapid City Medical Center. Previous to that, Wiege was a Long-Term Care Nurse for about 10 years at Northern Mt. Health Care in Montana.

    John Willis

    Adjunct Faculty


    John.Willis@wdt.edu


    Education and Credentials

    A.A.S. in Sociology at Gainesville State College

    A.A.S. in Intelligence Operations Support at Cochise College

    B.A. in Sociology at University of Georgia

    M.A. in Theological Studies at Liberty University

    CompTIA Security+ Certified

    Christina Zweber

    Practical Nursing Offsite Coordinator/Instructor

    (605) 718-2980
    Christina.Zweber@wdt.edu
    W131L


    Education and Credentials

    B.S. in Nursing at South Dakota State University
    M.A. of Nursing Science at Capella University

    Bio:
    Christina Zweber is a Registered Nurse earning a Bachelor's degree in Nursing from South Dakota State University and a Master's degree in Nursing from Capella University. Most recently, she worked as the Medical/Orthopedic/Neurology/ Surgical Nurse Manager for Monument Health in Rapid City.

    Financial Aid

    Jill Elder

    Director of Compliance and Financial Aid

    (605) 718-2411
    Jill.Elder@wdt.edu
    SS - D117


    Education and Credentials

    B.S. in Business Administration at National American University

    NASFAA Return of Title IV Funds Credential

    NASFAA Consumer Information Credential

    NASFAA Gainful Employment Credential

    NASFAA Professional Judgement Credential

    NASFAA Direct Loan Credential

    NASFAA Verification Credential

    NASFAA Administrative Capability Credential

    NASFAA Satisfactory Academic Progress Credential

    NASFAA Federal Pell Grant Credential

    NASFAA Cost of Attendance Credential

    Sharon Martin

    Assistant Director of Financial Aid

    (605) 718-2422
    Sharon.Martin@wdt.edu
    SS - D119


    Education and Credentials

    NASFAA Return of Title IV Funds Credential

    NASFAA Consumer Information Credential

    NASFAA Gainful Employment Credential

    NASFAA Professional Judgement Credential

    NASFAA Direct Loan Credential

    NASFAA Verification Credential

    NASFAA Administrative Capability Credential

    NASFAA Satisfactory Academic Progress Credential

    NASFAA Federal Pell Grant Credential

    NASFAA Cost of Attendance Credential

    Kristy O'Kief

    Financial Aid Coordinator

    (605) 718-2425
    Kristy.Okief@wdt.edu
    SS - D118


    Education and Credentials

    B.S., University of NE at Kearney

    M.A., University of Phoenix

    NASFAA Return of Title IV Funds Credential

    NASFAA Gainful Employment Credential

    NASFAA Direct Loan Credential

    NASFAA Verification Credential

    NASFAA Administrative Capability Credential

    NASFAA Federal Pell Grant Credential

    NASFAA Cost of Attendance Credential

    Kelly Oehlerking

    Vice President for Institutional Effectiveness and Student Success/Title IX Coordinator

    (605) 718-2931
    Kelly.Oehlerking@wdt.edu
    Admin - D206


    Education and Credentials

    B.S. in Business with an emphasis in Business Administration at Black Hills State University

    M.S. in Administrative Studies with an emphasis in Human Resources at University of South Dakota

    NASFAA Satisfactory Academic Progress Credential

    ATIXA Investigator Level One Credential

    Foundation

    Andrew Kapelewski

    Assistant Director of Scholarships

    (605) 718-3061
    Andrew.Kapelewski@wdt.edu
    D127


    Education and Credentials

    B.A. in Social Work at Christopher Newport University

    M.S. in Strategic Leadership at Black Hills State University

    Nora Leinen

    Foundation Director

    (605) 718-2436
    Nora.Leinen@wdt.edu
    D116


    Education and Credentials

    B.A. in English from University of Minnesota

    M.A. in English from Marquette University

    Chutima Supboon

    Scholarship Outreach Specialist

    605-718-3064
    Chutima.Supboon@wdt.edu
    SS-D128


    Education and Credentials

    B.A. in Geography at Silpakorn University

    M.S. in Geography at Northern Illinois University

    Full Time Faculty

    Todd Anderson

    Program Co-Director - Architectural & Engineering Technology

    (605) 718-2986
    Todd.Anderson@wdt.edu
    L214


    Education and Credentials

    A.A.S. in Computer-Aided Drafting at Western Dakota Technical Institute

    B.S. in Technical Occupations at Chadron State College

    Bio: 
    Todd Anderson, Program Co-director for the Architectural and Engineering Technology Program, is an architectural and civil design instructor specializing in the Autodesk’s AutoCAD, Revit and Civil 3D software. He received an A.A.S. in Computer-Aided Drafting from Western Dakota Technical Institute and a Bachelor's degree in Technical Occupations from Chadron State College.

    Anderson has worked in the Architectural Design industry for nearly three decades and has experience that spans multiple disciplines including the casino industry, and both residential and commercial building design. Throughout his career, he has helped with the design for over 100 casinos across the US, Canada and Mexico and has collaborated on many architectural design projects in and around the Black Hills area.

    Megan Ball

    Medical Laboratory Technician Instructor

    (605) 718-2913
    Megan.Ball@wdt.edu
    W131P


    Education and Credentials

    A.A.S. in Medical Laboratory Technology at Mitchell Technical Institute  

    B.S. in Medical Laboratory Science at South Dakota State University

    Bio:
    Megan Ball has worked as a Medical Lab Technician since graduating from Mitchell Technical College in 2005. She later completed her Bachelor’s degree in Medical Laboratory Science from South Dakota State University. In addition to being an MLT, Ball has been employed in various leadership roles including Lead Tech, Credentialled Trainer, Education Specialist, and Medical Laboratory Scientist. She began teaching at Western Dakota Technical College in 2023.

    Jay Banick

    Photo of Jay Banick.

    Program Director Professional Truck Driving

    (605) 718-2990
    Jay.Banick@wdt.edu
    B108


    Education and Credentials

    Bio:
    Jay Banick has been the Program Director for the Professional Truck Driving Program since 2018. He has 30 years of driving experience with 3 million safe miles. During his 30-year driving career, Banick assisted in training and mentoring new drivers, provided input and served as an advocate for company safety programs, and built decades-long relationships with customers.



    Abbie Barber

    Farm & Ranch Management/Meat Processing Programs Director

    (605) 718-3060
    Abbie.Barber@wdt.edu
    W2364-A


    Education and Credentials

    B.A. in Criminal Justice at Chadron State College

    Bio:
    Abbie Barber obtained her Bachelor’s degree in Criminal Justice from Chadron State College. She currently owns/operates an Angus cattle ranch in Western South Dakota. 

    In 2023, Barber became the WDTC Farm and Ranch program director.

    Troy Barry

    Photo of Troy Barry.

    Welding & Fabrication Instructor

    (605) 718-2989
    Troy.Barry@wdt.edu
    L223


    Education and Credentials

    Diploma in Welding/Manufacturing at Western Dakota Technical College
    AWS Certified Welding Inspector

    Bio:
    Troy Barry, a 2005 graduate of Western Dakota Technical College’s (WDTC) Welding Program, brings 14+ years of industry experience to classroom instruction. While a student, Barry was a S.D. State SkillsUSA Champion and now currently serves as the Vice President of the S.D. SkillsUSA Board of Directors. In 2022, he received the SkillsUSA S.D. Hall of Champions Award which is bestowed upon those who help youth develop the components of the Skills USA Framework in a changing world. Additionally, Barry was named one of five 2019 SkillsUSA Outstanding Career and Technical Educators and was honored at their national conference. In 2020, WDTC’s Welding and Fabrication program earned the American Technical Education’s Association (ATEA) Outstanding Technical Program Award. Barry was a 2020 finalist for the ATEA Outstanding Faculty Award.

    Danielle Beaulieu

    Photo of Danielle Ragnone

    Registered Nursing Coordinator & Instructor

    (605) 718-2916
    Danielle.Beaulieu@wdt.edu
    W131F


    Education and Credentials

    B.S. in Nursing at South Dakota State University

    M.S. Nurse Educator Specialization at South Dakota State University

    Bio:
    Danielle Beaulieu received her Bachelor of Science in Nursing and Master of Science, Nurse Educator Specialization at South Dakota State University. She began her health care career more than 13 years ago as a Certified Nurse Assistant while attending nursing courses.

    Following graduation, Beaulieu worked as a staff nurse, nurse preceptor, clinical teaching assistant, and nurse clinician. She began her career in academia in 2018 with Western Dakota Tech and has taught Medical Assisting, Practical Nursing, and most currently, Registered Nursing courses.

    Jennifer Bonner

    Program Director - Medical Assisting Instructor

    (605) 718-2925
    Jennifer.Bonner@wdt.edu
    W131L


    Education and Credentials

    B.S. in Nursing at University of Arkansas for Medical Science

    M.S. in Nursing at University of Cincinnati

    Doctor of Nursing Practice at Frontier Nursing University


    Dr. Jennifer Bonner joined the faculty at Western Dakota Technical College in March 2022. She received her B.S. in Nursing from University of Arkansas for Medical Sciences in 2009, M.S. in Nursing from the University of Cincinnati in 2012 and M.S. in Midwifery from Frontier Nursing University in 2017, then her DNP in 2019 from Frontier. She has spent most of her nursing career in L&D and Postpartum, then as a Certified Nurse Midwife she enjoyed providing care for the women of the Black Hills and surrounding areas at Rapid City OB/GYN. She currently serves as the Program Director for the Medical Assisting program and teaches within the RN and LPN programs. 

    Joelle Boshart

    Program Director - Health Information Management

    Simulation Operations Specialist

    (605) 718-2918
    Joelle.Boshart@wdt.edu
    W131A


    Education and Credentials

    Certified Professional Coder - Coder II (CPC)

    Certified Professional Medical Auditor (CPMA)

    Certified Evaluation and Management Coder (CEMC)

    Bio:
    Joelle Boshart is the WDTC Health Information Management Program Director. She is a Certified Professional Coder. She began coding and billing in 1986 and over the years has worked in numerous medical practices and hospital settings. Specialties include Plastic and Reconstructive Surgery, Orthopedic Surgery, Colo-Rectal Surgery, General Surgery, Dermatology, Pulmonology, Neurology and Sleep Medicine, Pain
    Management and Rehabilitation, Anesthesiology, Internal Medicine, and Family Practice. In 2014, she was awarded “Compliance Champion” by Regional Health Corporate Responsibility for “Always striving to do the right thing”. In the past she has held Board seats with APSPA (Association of Plastic Surgery Physician Assistants) as Member at Large – West, Race for the Cure, Orange County Chapter as Member Secretary, and served as Treasurer for AAPC (American Association of Professional Coders) Rapid City Chapter from 2020-2021.

    Doyle Bouzek

    Photo of Doyle Bouzek

    Program Director - Automotive Technology

    (605) 718-2924
    Doyle.Bouzek@wdt.edu
    L109B


    Education and Credentials

    A.A.S in Advanced Automotive Repair at Lake Area Tech

    Bio:
    Doyle Bouzek is the Automotive Technology Program Director. He received his A.A.S in Advanced Automotive Repair at Lake Area Tech.

    Bouzek came to WDT as an adjunct in the fall of 2016 after closing his repair facility that operated for 14.5 years. He started his career as a Ford Service Technician for nine years before becoming a Service Manager in a Ford Dealership for seven years. After leaving the Ford Service Management position, he was hired by Snap-on Tools as a Technical Representative for five years before returning to Rapid City to open his own repair facility, which included two locations.

    Suzanne Brandt

    Instructor

    Practical Nursing

    (605) 718-2974
    Suzanne.Brandt@wdt.edu
    W131E


    Education and Credentials

    B.S.N. in Nursing at Morningside College

    Bio:
    Suzanne Brandt received her B.S.N. in Nursing at Morningside College in Sioux City, Iowa, in 1986. She worked in the Houston Medical Center and surrounding areas for the first 23 years of her nursing career in Neuro ICU, Cardiac Care Unit, Cardiovascular Recovery, and intermediate Care as a bedside nurse and nurse manager. She also assisted her husband in managing his chiropractic office. Upon moving to the Rapid City area in 2009, Brandt worked at Rapid City Regional Hospital for three years in Progressive Care Unit and Clinical Informatics before beginning her teaching career in the Western Dakota Tech Practical Nursing program in 2012.

    Timmi Bubac

    General Education - English Instructor

    (605) 718-2938
    Timmi.Bubac@wdt.edu
    L173


    Education and Credentials

    B.S. in Secondary English Education at BH State University  

    M.A. in English Literature at Colorado State University

    Bio:
    Timmi Bubac has a Bachelor’s degree in secondary English education from Black Hills State University and a Master’s degree in English Literature from Colorado State University. She taught English in the public schools in Colorado and College Composition courses for Colorado State University while attending graduate school. Most recently, Bubac taught English at Stevens High School.

    Rachael Burchell

    Dental Assisting Instructor

    (605) 718-2933
    Rachael.Burchell@wdt.edu
    W141


    Education and Credentials

    A.A.S. in Dental Assisting at San Joaquin Valley College

    Bachelor of Arts degree in General Studies from Southern New Hampshire University

    Bio:
    Rachael Burchell earned an Associate’s degree in Culinary Arts from South Central College in Minnesota and an Associate’s degree in Dental Assisting from San Joaquin Valley College in California. She is a Certified Dental Assistant with more than 10 years of experience in that role and most recently as an Office Manager.

    Bryon Christian

    Computer Science Instructor

    (605) 718-3053
    Bryon.Christian@wdt.edu
    L173


    Education and Credentials

    B.S. in English and Education at University of South Dakota
    Axis Cameras Certified Network Video Professional
    Genetec Security Systems Omnicast and Synergis Technical Certification
    CompTIA Network+ Certified

    Bio:
    Bryon Christian is a Computer Science Instructor. He began teaching at WDTC in August 2022. He has a Bachelor’s degree in English from University of South Dakota. He spent 24 years as a high school English teacher and Technology Director.

    Bret Clark

    Program Director - Construction Technology

    (605) 718-3054
    Bret.Clark@wdt.edu
    L158


    Education and Credentials

    B.S. in Education at Black Hills State University

    Bio:
    Bret Clark is the Construction Technology Program Director. He received a Bachelor’s degree in Education at Black Hills State University. He taught in the Rapid City School District for five years. Clark then began his own construction company working primarily in western South Dakota, Wyoming and North Dakota. The main focus of his company was commercial construction and post frame construction, but it also branched out into the residential homes and concrete. After 15 years in construction, Clark began teaching the Construction Tech program at Western Dakota Tech in the Fall of 2018.

    Mark Cropley

    Truck Driving Instructor


    Mark.Cropley@wdt.edu
    B108


    Education and Credentials

    Bio:
    Mark Cropley started in the trucking industry in 1981 as a tow truck driver for a small company and later worked for WR Grace. In 1985, he became an independent trucker and later became a truck broker. At the peak of his company, he owned five trucks and five to seven brokered trucks depending on time of year. Cropley has all commercial driving endorsements including school bus. He closed his company in 2019 and began working at Western Dakota Technical College as an instructor in Fall 2022.

    Xavier DeBlieck

    Program Director - Plumbing

    (605) 718-2983
    Xavier.DeBlieck@wdt.edu
    L114


    Education and Credentials

    Bio:
    Xavier DeBlieck holds a Journeyman Plumbing License from the S.D. Plumbing Commission and has worked as a Journeyman Plumber and Plumbing Foreman since 2017.

    Tamara (Tami) Dewes

    Assessment Coordinator

    Instructor - General Education

    (605) 718-2984
    Tamara.Dewes@wdt.edu
    Admin - D225B


    Education and Credentials

    B.S. in Elementary Education at Dakota State University

    B.S. in Home Economics at South Dakota State University

    Bio:
    Tami Dewes earned Bachelor's degrees in Home Economics and Elementary Education from South Dakota State University. She has experience as a Program Director at Youth & Family Services, a Child Development Director for Rapid City Catholic Schools, and as a DataBase Manager/Technology Coordinator for Rapid City Catholic Schools. Dewes teaches in the General Education Department and is also one of WDTC’s Assessment Coordinators.

    David Eckmann

    HVAC/Refrigeration Instructor

    (605) 718-3075
    David.Eckmann@wdt.edu
    L201


    Education and Credentials

    Certificate for Sheet Metal Technician at Mitchell Technical College

    Bio:
    Dave Eckmann completed sheet metal training at Mitchell Technical College and spent 20 years in the sheet metal trade. He has also worked as a certified air and water balancer for 10 years. Locally, he worked at Rapid City Regional Hospital maintaining HVAC and refrigeration equipment and most recently worked at the Black Hills State University Center in the Maintenance department.

    Tonia Fischer

    General Education - Psychology/Sociology Instructor

    (605) 718-2936
    Tonia.Fischer@wdt.edu
    W232


    Education and Credentials

    M.S. in Administrative Studies at University of South Dakota
    B.S. in Human Services and Sociology at Black Hills State University

    Bio:
    Tonia Fischer has a double Bachelor’s degree in Sociology and Human Services from Black Hills State University and a Master’s degree in Administrative Studies from the University of South Dakota. Recently retired from the industry, Fischer worked 23 years with the State of South Dakota - five years as a Social Worker and 18 years in probation.

    John Geiman

    Team Leader

    Program Director - Computer Science

    (605) 718-3052
    John.Geiman@wdt.edu
    L215


    Education and Credentials

    B.A. in Industrial Technology with emphasis in Drafting at Chadron State College

    Master in Cyber Security, Maryville University

    Bio:

    John Geiman is the Computer Science Program Director. He has worked at WDTC since February 2016. He has a Bachelor’s degree, Composite Major in Industrial Arts with an emphasis in Teaching Methods, Electronics and Drafting, from Chadron State College. Geiman recently earned a Master’s degree in Cyber Security from Maryville University. He has 24 years of experience in the Computer Science field.

    Travis Gerlich

    Welding & Fabrication Instructor

    (605) 718-4709
    Travis.Gerlich@wdt.edu
    L223


    Education and Credentials

    A.A.S. in Welding at Western Dakota Technical College

    Bio:
    Travis Gerlich is a 2007 graduate of Western Dakota Tech’s Welding & Fabrication Program and has been a Certified Welding Inspector with the American Welding Society since 2018. He has been welding in the mining industry for more than 15 years with 12 of those years spent at the Coeur Wharf Mine, where he started as a welder and worked his way up to Maintenance Supervisor.

    Mary Grassrope

    Program Co-Director - Paramedic

    (605) 718-2549
    Mary.Grassrope@wdt.edu
    W145


    Education and Credentials

    B.S. in Physics at SD School of Mines & Technology

    M.Ed. in Instructional Design at Western Governors University

    Paramedic, Advanced Medical Life Support, Prehospital Trauma Life Support

    Bio:
    Mary Grassrope has worked at Western Dakota Tech since 2015 and is the Paramedic Program Director. She received a Bachelor’s degree in Physics at the South Dakota School of Mines and Technology and a Master’s degree in Instructional Design at Western Governors University. Grassrope is a certified Paramedic and has additional certifications in Advanced Medical Life Support, Prehospital and Trauma Life Support. She is also a certified PALS/ACLS provider. 

    Thomas Gravatt

    Electrical Trades Instructor

    (605) 718-2943
    Thomas.Gravatt@wdt.edu
    L201


    Education and Credentials

    A.A.S. in Industrial Controls from Western Dakota Technical College
    A.A.S. in Electrical Technology from Southeast Technical College

    Bio:
    Thomas Gravatt acquired an Electronics Technology degree from Southeast Technical Institute in Sioux Falls in 2011. He continued his education at Western Dakota Technical College and received a degree in Industrial Wiring in 2013.

    Gravatt began his apprenticeship in Bozeman, Mont. He passed his Journeyman exam in 2019 and has more than 21,000 hours of electrical experience in the field. He has wired in industrial, commercial, and residential properties. His industrial experience includes the Bakken Oilfields, backup generators, and manufacturing. His commercial experience includes hotels, urgent cares, offices, and the Yellowstone Club Party Barn. His residential experience includes tiny homes, large custom homes, large multi-family dwelling units, etc. Tom began teaching for the WDTC Electrical Trades program in 2024.

    Krista Hagemann

    Program Director - Surgical Technology

    (605) 718-2917
    Krista.Hagemann@wdt.edu
    W131C


    Education and Credentials

    A.A.S. in Surgical Technology, Rasmussen College, Moorhead, Minn.

    Certified Surgical Technologist

    Bio:
    Krista Hagemann received her A.A.S. in Surgical Technology at Rasmussen College in Moorhead, Minn. She has been a practicing Certified Surgical Technologist since 2010 and an Instructor at Western Dakota Tech since 2017. She became the WDT Surgical Technology Program Director in July 2021. Hagemann is an active member of the Association of Surgical Technologists (AST) and has served as Treasurer and Board of Directors for the South Dakota State Assembly. In 2021, she received the national AST Rising Star Constellation Award. Hagemann was the recipient of the 2019 AST Chris Keegan Conference Scholarship. She was a presenter at the 2019 AST Educator’s Conference.

    Richard Hamilton

    General Education - Math

    (605) 718-3056
    Richard.Hamilton@wdt.edu
    L173


    Education and Credentials

    M.S. in Mathematics at University of West Florida

    B.S. in Chemical Engineering at SD School of Mines and Technology

    Bio:
    Rick Hamilton earned a Bachelor's degree in Chemical Engineering from the South Dakota School of Mines & Technology and a Master's degree in Mathematics from the University of West Florida. Most recently, Hamilton was a high school math teacher for the Hill City School District for 13 years.

    Donna Hanks

    Director of Instructional Support and Professional Development

    (605) 718-2951
    Donna.Hanks@wdt.edu
    Admin - D224


    Education and Credentials

    Bio:
    B.S. in Marketing at Southwest MN State University

    M.S. in Administrative Studies at the University of South Dakota

    Certificate in Instructional Design from Georgetown University School of Continuing Studies


    Bio:
    Donna Hanks was an instructor in the Business & Technology program for 14 years before transferring to the Academic Support Team in 2018.  She was our Instructional Technology and Design Specialist for 4 years and now serves as the Director of Instructional Support and Professional Development.

    Hanks has a Master's degree from the University of South Dakota in Administrative Studies with an emphasis in Organizational Leadership. She has a Bachelor's degree from Southwest Minnesota State University in Business Administration with an emphasis in finance and marketing. In 2021, she earned a certificate in Instructional Design from Georgetown University School of Continuing Studies.

    Hanks has a passion for education, leadership and her community. She is a graduate of Rapid City Area Chamber of Commerce Leadership Rapid City, has served as a board member for LRC, co-chair of Junior Leadership Rapid City committee and served as a volunteer for the Abbott House.

    In 2017, Hanks received the Rose Day Award during the International Women’s Day Presentation from Zonta Club of the Black Hills, honoring women for their community work and involvement.

    Keeryn Hare

    Practical Nursing Instructor

    (605) 718-2921
    Keeryn.Hare@wdt.edu
    W132


    Education and Credentials

    B.A. in Nursing from University of South Dakota

    Bio:
    Keeryn Hare began working in the medical field when she was 19 as a nurse’s aide before starting nursing school. She graduated with her Bachelor’s degree in Nursing degree from the University of South Dakota in May 2022. Hare began her first job as a Registered Nurse at Monument Health working on the heart and vascular floors. She has also worked at Black Hills Regional Eye Institute as a Preop, OR, and PACU nurse. She began teaching Registered Nursing clinicals for Western Dakota Technical College in Fall Semester 2023 and then moved into a full-time nursing position in January 2024 in the Practical Nursing program.



    Chanin Hartnett

    Program Director - Dental Assisting

    (605) 718-3057
    Chanin.Hartnett@wdt.edu
    W141


    Education and Credentials

    B.A. in General Studies at Southern New Hampshire University

    A.A.S. in Pharmacy Technician Program at San Joaquin Valley College-Bakersfield, CA

    A.A.S. in Dental Assisting Program at San Joaquin Valley College-Bakersfield, CA

    Bio:
    Chanin Hartnett is the Director of the Dental Assisting program. She has register dental assisting certification in California and South Dakota, is a Certified Dental Assistant through DANB, and a Bachelor's degree in Business Administration from Southern New Hampshire University.

    Hartnett has been teaching in the Business and Dental programs since 2011 and brings five years of work experience in Dentistry.

    Dani Hersrud

    Surgical Technology Instructor

    (605) 718-2934
    Dani.Hersrud@wdt.edu
    W131C


    Education and Credentials

    A.A.S. in Surgical Technology at Western Dakota Tech
    B.S. in Occupational Education at Wayland Baptist University

    Bio:
    Dani Hersrud has an Associate of Applied Science degree in Surgical Technology from Western Dakota Technical College and a Bachelor's degree in Occupational Education with a specialization in Psychological Studies from Wayland Baptist University. She is a Certified Surgical Technologist and most recently worked at Black Hills Surgical Hospital.

    Mandy Hertel

    Program Director - General Education - Social Science

    (605) 718-2935
    Mandy.Hertel@wdt.edu
    W232


    Education and Credentials

    B.S. in Sociology & Psychology at Black Hills State University

    M.S. in Educational Psychology at Capella University

    Bio:
    Mandy Hertel is the Western Dakota Technical College Social Science Program Director overseeing Sociology and Economics. She started as a Sociology and Psychology Instructor at the college in 2012.

    Hertel has a Bachelor's degree in Sociology and Psychology from Black Hills State University and
    a Master’s degree in Educational Psychology from Capella University.

    Prior to her career as an instructor, Hertel spent 16 years dedicated to helping people with disabilities overcome adversity and reach life goals. This included direct support, case management, and director positions.

    In 2021, Hertel received the inaugural American Technical Education Association (ATEA) Impact to Technical Education Award.

    Hertel is a proud alumni of Leadership Rapid City and a founding member of the Rapid City Day of Excellence, Inc.

    Kristen Hybertson

    Team Leader

    Director of Nursing

    Program Director - Practical Nursing & Registered Nursing

    (605) 718-2428
    Kristen.Hybertson@wdt.edu
    W131H


    Education and Credentials

    B.S. in Nursing at University of Wyoming

    M.S. in Nursing - Nurse Educator at South Dakota State University

    Bio:
    Kristen Hybertson has been teaching at Western Dakota Tech since August 2019. She received her B.S. in Nursing at University of Wyoming in 2007 and her M.S. in Nursing - Nurse Educator at South Dakota State University in 2018.

    Hybertson has worked at Monument Health Rapid City on the Progress Care Unit and the Heart and Vascular Unit as both a bedside nurse and a Clinical Resource Nurse since 2007.

    Justin Jutting

    Assessment Coordinator

    Program Director - ET Autonomous Equipment Technician

    (605) 718-4703
    Justin.Jutting@wdt.edu
    Admin - D225A


    Education and Credentials

    A.A.S. in Automotive Technician at Western Dakota Tech

    A.A.S. in Transportation Technology at Western Dakota Tech 

    B.S. in Education at South Dakota State University

    M.B.A. in Business Administration at Chadron State College

    ASE Auto Master Certified

    ASE Medium Heavy Duty Master Certified

    Bio:
    Justin Jutting earned an Associate of Applied Science degree in Automotive Technician and in Transportation Technology from Western Dakota Technical College, Bachelor's degree in Education from South Dakota State University, and a Master's degree in Business Administration from Chadron State College. Jutting teaches in the WDTC Autonomous Equipment Technician Program and is also one of the college's Assessment Coordinators.

    Karie Kennedy

    Team Leader
    Program Director - General Education - Behavioral Science

    (605) 718-2928
    Karie.Kennedy@wdt.edu
    W236B


    Education and Credentials

    B.S. in Psychology, Sociology & Human Services at Black Hills State University

    J.D. in Law at University of South Dakota

    Bio:
    Karie Kennedy is the Western Dakota Technical College General Education Team Leader, Behavioral Sciences Program Director, and psychology and sociology instructor. She has been an instructor at the college since 2010. She taught full-time in the Paralegal Program for several years before transitioning to the General Education Program.

    Kennedy has a Juris Doctorate from the University of South Dakota School of Law and a Bachelor's degree from Black Hills State University in psychology, sociology and human services with an emphasis in community services.

    Kennedy was an Assistant City Attorney for the City of Rapid City and worked in private practice. She serves as a volunteer for the 7th Circuit Court Appointed Special Advocate Program (CASA) advocating in court for the best interest of abused and neglected children.

    Michele Klapprodt

    Photo of Michele Klapprodt.

    Program Director - General Education - Biological Sciences

    (605) 718-2584
    Michele.Klapprodt@wdt.edu
    W141


    Education and Credentials

    B.S. in Biology & Health/ Phys Ed & Recreation at South Dakota State University

    M.S. in Biological Sciences at Western Governors University 

    Bio:
    Michele Klapprodt has been an instructor at Western Dakota Technical College (WDTC) since 1993. She began as an adjunct instructor teaching Anatomy & Physiology, Medical Terminology, Pathophysiology and Human Relations in the Workplace. She accepted a full-time position in 2018 as the Biological Science Program Director.

    Klapprodt has a Bachelor's degree in Biological Science from South Dakota State University and a Master’s degree in Biological Science from Western Governors University. She is a WDTC Academic Advisor, and member of the following: Curriculum and Standards Committee, General Education Assessment and Advisory Board, and Program Review Board for the Nursing, Phlebotomy and Medical Lab Tech program.

    Her science background in the field includes working as the Pathology assistant for the Clinical Laboratory of the Black Hills and Fuel-Ade Laboratory Supervisor.

    Greg Kock

    Diesel Technology Instructor

    (605) 718-3062
    Gregory.Kock@wdt.edu
    B112


    Education and Credentials

    A.A.S. in Diesel Technology at Lake Area Technical College
    Diploma in Small Business at Allied University
    A.A.S. in General Studies at Mitchell Technical College
    B.A. in Technical Leadership/Management at University of South Dakota

    Bio:
    Greg Kock earned a diploma in Diesel Technology & Management from Lake Area Tech and an AAS degree in Technical Studies from Mitchell Technical College. He is ASE Master Certified in Medium/Heavy Truck, holds ESCO A/C Certification Section 608, MACS A/C Certification Section 608, and is also OSHA certified. Kock has more than 20 years of experience in the diesel technology industry including experience as a heavy equipment mechanic, business owner, and instructor.

    Jodi Kor

    Team Leader
    Program Director - Medical Laboratory Technician

    (605) 718-2939
    Jodi.Kor@wdt.edu
    W131M


    Education and Credentials

    B.S. in Arts & Science at South Dakota State University

    M.S. in Business Administration at Baker College

    Certified Medical Technologist

    Bio:
    Jodi Kor began working for Western Dakota Tech (WDT) in the Medical Laboratory Technician (MLT) Program in 2017 and transitioned into the Program Director and Team Leader positions in 2018. Prior to working at WDT, Kor was a Laboratory Manager, Supervisor, and Medical Technologist with Regional Health for more than 20 years. She has a Medical Technologist Certification, ASCP, a Bachelor’s degree in Arts & Science from South Dakota State University, and a Master’s degree in Business Administration at Baker College. In her free time, Kor enjoys spending time with her family, trail riding, and skiing.

    Dave Lingle

    Photo of David Lingle.

    Program Director - Diesel Technology & DT - Industrial Maintenance

    (605) 718-2923
    David.Lingle@wdt.edu
    B106


    Education and Credentials

    ASE Certified - Diesel
    ASE Certified Master Medium/Heavy Truck Technician

    Bio:
    Dave Lingle is the Diesel Technology Program Co-Director. He has been ASE Certified – Diesel since 1981.

    Lingle has two years of undergraduate studies at the University of South Dakota/Springfield in Diesel and Power Controls Technology. He has worked for two John Deere dealerships and was a shop foreman at a Cummins dealership. Lingle spent the last 30 years as a Department of Defense Heavy Mobile Equipment technician, ending that career as a Mechanic Supervisor.

    Lingle is Cummins engine certified, Section 609 certified for HVAC repair, a Master Service Technician for Bobcat, GM S.E.T certified, and OSHA supervisor trained.

    Jason Linneweber

    Automotive Technology Instructor

    (605) 718-3063
    Jason.Linneweber@wdt.edu
    L109b


    Education and Credentials

    Certification Automotive Technology at Wyotech

    Bio:
    Jason Linneweber has twenty-plus years of Automotive experience in both dealership and independent repair facilities. He received his Automotive Technician Diploma from WyoTech’s Laramie campus. He has earned multiple credentials throughout his career, including several Automotive Service Excellence (ASE) certifications. These include ASE Master Automobile Technician, and Advanced Level Specialist certifications in Light Duty Diesel and Hybrid/Electric vehicles. Linneweber spent several years of his automotive career working in General Motors dealerships, earning master certifications throughout all areas.

    James Loverich

    Program Co-Director - Architectural & Engineering Technology

    (605) 718-2941
    James.Loverich@wdt.edu
    L214


    Education and Credentials

    B.S. in Mechanical Engineering at Northern Arizona University

    M.S. in Engineering Mechanics at Virginia Tech

    Bio:

    James S. Loverich, Program Co-Director for the Architectural and Engineering Technology Program, is a Mechanical Engineering Technology instructor specializing in PTC Creo, Autodesk AutoCAD, and Autodesk Fusion 360. A graduate of Northern Arizona University with a Bachelor's degree in Mechanical Engineering and a Master's degree in Engineering Science and Mechanics from Virginia Tech, he is a Registered Professional Engineer in South Dakota. With a decade-long career as a mechanical engineer at Boeing Commercial Airplane Group, Wellstream, Inc., Sanmina-SCI, and RPM and Associates, Loverich transitioned to teaching in 2008.


    Duane Martenson

    Program Director - Accounting

    (605) 718-2929
    Duane.Martenson@wdt.edu
    W236D


    Education and Credentials

    B.S. in Marketing at Black Hills State University

    M.S. in Administrative Studies at University of South Dakota

    Bio:
    Duane Martenson is the co-program director for the Business and Accounting Programs. He has been teaching at Western Dakota Tech for more than 20 years. He has presented on using innovative technology-based teaching strategies at national conferences and was named a finalist for ATEA National Outstanding Technical Teacher of the year. He has his Bachelor’s degree in Marketing, a Business and Technology K-12 Teaching Certification from Black Hills State University, and a Master’s degree in Business from the University of South Dakota. Martenson has owned a business in the retail and service sector and currently owns and operates two businesses in the real-estate sector.

    Daniel McRae

    Electrical Trades Instructor

    (605) 718-4741
    Daniel.McRae@wdt.edu
    L201


    Education and Credentials

    Independent Electrical Contractor

    Electrical Journeyman

    Bio:
    Dan McRae is a Western Dakota Tech Electrical Trades Instructor. He has been with the college since spring of 2019.

    McRae started as an apprentice electrician with Freeman’s electric in 1995. He completed
    apprentice training with IEC and went on to teach classes there.

    McRae has wired houses, apartments, commercial, retail, banks, water treatment, and various other projects. In 2014, he became a service electrician with Muth electric. In this position, he worked on many electrical systems from complex control systems, mining sites, and hazardous locations, to residential and lighting retrofit projects.

    Bryan Mitchell

    Program Director - Electrical Trades
    Program Co-Director - Controlled Environment Agriculture

    (605) 718-2942
    Bryan.Mitchell@wdt.edu
    L223


    Education and Credentials

    A.A.S. in Industrial Electronics at Western Dakota Tech

    Electrical Journeyman's License

    Bio:
    Bryan Mitchell is the Electrical Trades Program Director. He started in the electrical industry in 2003 attending the Industrial Electronics program at Western Dakota Tech (WDT). Upon graduation, Mitchell worked locally until 2009, and earned his South Dakota Electrical Journeymen’s License.

    Mitchell then relocated to Wyoming where he installed new construction electrical systems before he left the installation side of the industry and took a position as an Electrical Technician for the Kiewit Mining Group’s Buckskin Mine.

    Mitchell then worked as a Service Engineer/Technical Service Representative position for the world’s largest manufacturer of electrical mining equipment at the time - P&H MinePro, then Joy Global, and now Komatsu Mining.

    Mitchell worked in this position until 2016 when he next entered the world of high-speed manufacturing as an Asset Care Response Team member for what was then MillerCoors, now MolsonCoors, at their brewery complex in Golden, CO.

    He worked in Colorado until he decided to take the education and experience at the top levels of the electrical industry back to where it all began and accepted a position as an Electrical Instructor for the WDT Electrical Trades Program, at WDT in 2017, and was promoted to Program Director not long after that same year. During his time at WDT, Mitchell has led the program and students to several prestigious awards including first place in the National Science Foundation’s Community College Innovation Challenge, in Washington D.C., in June 2018.

    Mitchell has Electrical Contractor/Master Electrician Licenses for Rapid City as well as at the S.D. state level. He also has an Electrical Journeymen’s license in North Dakota and a federal license through the Mine Safety and Health Administration (MSHA) as a “Qualified Person” under Part 77.103 which allows him to do electrical work in hazardous mining locations. Mitchell has had a Wyoming Mining Foremen License.

    Mitchell serves on the board of the South Dakota Electrical Council.

    He has worked summers off at WDT, leading a crew as a Project Foremen in the oil fields in North Dakota.

    Ann Murano

    Program Director - General Education - Computer Literacy

    (605) 718-2930
    AMurano@wdt.edu
    W236C


    Education and Credentials

    B.S. in Business Administration at Black Hills State University

    B.S. in Business Education at Black Hills State University

    Bio:
    Ann Murano is the Western Dakota Technical College (WDTC) Computer Literacy Program Director and a computer instructor in the General Education Program. She has been an instructor at WDTC since 1996. Murano taught in the Business Management & Marketing Program for 20 years before moving to the General Education Program.

    Murano has a Bachelor's degree in Business Administration with a Computer Programming minor and a Bachelor's degree in Secondary Business Education.

    Murano is also very active in the community. As an active P.E.O. member promoting women in education, she is proud that her chapter has awarded $44,000 in scholarships to WDTC students. She also serves on the Abbott House Board of Directors.

    Kelsey Murray

    Photo of Kelsey Murray.

    Program Director - Environmental Engineering Tech & Pharmacy Technician
    Program Co-Director - EET Controlled Environment Agriculture

    (605) 718-2992
    Kelsey.Murray@wdt.edu
    L156


    Education and Credentials

    A.S. in Respiratory Care at Dakota State University

    B.S. in Biochemistry at University of Minnesota - Twin Cities

    Ph.D. in Biomedical Engineering at South Dakota School of Mines & Technology

    Bio:
    Kelsey Murray, Ph.D., Western Dakota Technical (WDT) College Pharmacy Technology Director and Environmental Engineering Technology Director, has been full-time faculty at WDT since 2018.

    Dr. Murray received her A.S. in Respiratory Care from Dakota State University, B.S. in Biochemistry from the University of Minnesota-Twin Cities, and Ph.D. in Biomedical Engineering from South Dakota School of Mines and Technology. She has maintained a PTCB Certified Pharmacy Technician standing since 2006 and has 15 years of pharmacy-related experience.

    Dr. Murray is CEO and Founder of Crossover Biomedical, a genetics and genomics consulting company. Dr. Murray’s current research works to establish connections between the environment and human health, with emphasis on pathogenic and antibiotic resistance potential of microbes in surface and wastewater environments.

    She has previous research and diagnostic experience in behavioral pharmacology, molecular diagnostic testing and surveillance of veterinary infections agents, pharmaceutical sciences, and biomedical engineering. Selected projects include: Factors Effecting PCP Self-Administration in Rhesus Monkeys, Optimization and Characterization of Lipid-Polycation-DNA Nanoparticles and Lipoplexes for Lung Cancer Gene Delivery, Delivery of Smurf2, a Potential Tumor Suppressor Gene, and Establishing Gene Fingerprints of Pathogenic Bacteria in Rapid Creek and the Big Sioux River.

    Dr. Murray has been a keynote speaker/invited lecturer at more than 20 conferences and is the author of numerous reports, journal articles, laboratory manuals, and book chapters. She also serves on the Breadroot Cooperative, Live.Move.Be Farms, and South Dakota Public Health Association Boards of Directors.

    Lydia Nemec

    Practical Nursing Instructor

    (605) 718-2919
    Lydia.Nemec@wdt.edu
    W131B


    Education and Credentials

    A.A.S. in Practical Nursing at Dickinson State University

    B.S. in Nursing at Dickinson State University

    M.S. in Nursing Education at Western Governors University

    Bio:
    Lydia Nemec is a Registered Nurse with a Bachelor’s degree in Nursing from Dickenson State University and a Master’s degree in Nursing Education from Western Governor’s University. Most recently, she worked as a clinical resource nurse in the Oncology department at Monument Health, as well as working as an Infusion RN at Rapid City Medical Center. Nemec has also worked as a Licensed Practical Nurse in Long-Term Care. She began teaching at Western Dakota Technical College in 2023.

    Duane Nestor

    Team Leader

    Program Director - General Education - Mathematics & Library Science

    (605) 718-2954
    Duane.Nestor@wdt.edu
    W236A


    Education and Credentials

    B.S. in Mathematics United States Naval Academy

    M.S. in Aeronautical Engineering at Naval Postgraduate School

    Bio:
    Duane Nestor is the Library Technician Program Director and a Mathematics Instructor in the General Education Program. He has been an instructor at WDTC since 2016. He has a Bachelor's degree in Mathematics from the United States Naval Academy and a Master's degree in Aeronautical Engineering from the Naval Postgraduate School. Nestor retired in 2009 from the United States Navy after a 30-year career and began teaching mathematics full time. He has teaching experience at the United States Naval Academy, University of Minnesota, and Thomas Nelson Community College in Hampton, Va.

    Christine Ousley

    Program Director - Phlebotomy - Laboratory Assistant

    (605) 718-2912
    Christine.Ousley@wdt.edu
    W131N


    Education and Credentials

    A.A.S. in Medical Lab Technician at Hibbing Community College

    Certified Phlebotomist

    Bio:
    Christine Ousley started at Western Dakota Technical College (WDTC) in 2012. She instructs the first semester of the Medical Laboratory Technician program in which students can earn a Phlebotomy Certificate. Ousley came to WDT with more than 15 years of industry experience as a Patient Service Center Manager for Regional West Medical Center in Rapid City and as a Medical Laboratory Technician and Phlebotomist/Outpatient Services Coordinator in Minnesota. She received her A.A.S. in Medical Lab Technology from Hibbing Community and Technical College. She is Medical Laboratory Technician certified, ASCP. In her free time, Ousley enjoys spending time with her family, hiking, and traveling to see sloths.

    Cozy Petersen

    Practical Nursing Instructor

    (605) 718-2920
    Cozette.Petersen@wdt.edu
    W131J


    Education and Credentials

    A.A.S. in Practical Nursing from Western Nebraska Community College

    A.D. in Nursing from University of South Dakota

    B.S. in Nursing from Walden University


    Bio:
    Cozy Petersen began her nursing career in 1991 as a Certified Nursing Assistant and then advanced through LPN and ADN to BSN. Her nursing experience includes Geriatrics, Home Health, Labor and Delivery, New-Born Nursery, Med/Surg, Ortho/Neuro, Operating Room, Dialysis, Clinical Instructor and Outpatient clinics. Petersen has also worked in leadership positions including Director of Nursing, Charge Nurse, and Preceptor. She began teaching at Western Dakota Technical College in 2023.

    Michael Prugh

    Team Leader

    Program Director - Welding & Fabrication

    (605) 718-2926
    Michael.Prugh@wdt.edu
    L233


    Education and Credentials

    B.A. in Industrial Design at Metropolitan State College of Denver

    Bio:
    Michael Prugh is the Welding and Fabrication Program Director and has been a full-time faculty member for Western Dakota Tech (WDT) for six years. Prugh has a Bachelor’s degree in Industrial Design. He  serves as a Team Leader and is a member of WDT’s Persistence and Completion Committee. Prugh has more than 20 years of welding and fabrication experience to include being a successful business owner. In 2020, WDT’s Welding and Fabrication program earned the American Technical Education’s Association Outstanding technical Program Award.

    Peter Ragnone

    Instructor - Criminal Justice

    (605) 718-2927
    Peter.Ragnone@wdt.edu
    W236G


    Education and Credentials

    B.S. in Criminal Justice at Ferris State University

    M.A. in Political Science at the University of South Dakota

    Bio:
    Peter Ragnone is a Criminal Justice Instructor at WDTC. He served as the Director of the Criminal Justice Program from 2017 through June 2023. He was an adjunct instructor at WDTC from 2007-2017. Ragnone has a Bachelor's degree in Criminal Justice from Ferris State University and a Master’s degree in Political Science from the University of South Dakota. He has taught Philosophy and Criminal Justice at the University of South Dakota and Black Hills State University since 2002. He retired in 2016 as a Lieutenant from the Rapid City Police Department after 25 years of serving in Field Services, Investigations, and Administration. Ragnone teaches Introduction to Criminal Justice and the Law Enforcement Academy.

    Rob Reagan

    Program Director - Business & Technology

    (605) 718-4743
    Robert.Reagan@wdt.edu
    W236D


    Education and Credentials

    B.S. in Business Administration at Black Hills State University

    M.B.A. in Business Administration at Webster University

    Bio:
    Robert Reagan is the Director of the Western Dakota Tech Business programs. The programs include Business and Technology, Entrepreneurship, Office Professional, Social Media Marketing and Hospitality. He has a Bachelor’s degree in Business Administration from Black Hills State University and a Master’s degree in Business Administration from Webster University. Reagan has been teaching in the Business programs for more than 10 years and brings 20 years of work experience in investments, real estate and entrepreneurship. Reagan has worked as a manager, financial advisor, small business owner (hotel, auto dealership, rental real estate), librarian and soccer coach.

    Kurt Russow

    Program Director - General Education - Communications

    (605) 718-2932
    Kurt.Russow@wdt.edu
    W232


    Education and Credentials

    B.S. in English at Minnesota State University

    M.A. in English at North Dakota State University

    Bio:
    Kurt Russow is the Western Dakota Technical College (WDTC) Program Director of Communication. He has been an instructor at WDTC since Fall Semester 2010. He has a Master's Degree from North Dakota State University in English and a Bachelor's degree from Minnesota State University Moorhead in English Education. He has a passion for both writing and English Literature. Before WDTC, Russow taught first year English courses at North Dakota State University. He also has a history of volunteer grant writing for non-profits in the Black Hills area.

    Bill Urban

    Program Director - Precision Machining

    (605) 718-4704
    William.Urban@wdt.edu
    L114


    Education and Credentials

    A.A.S. in Welding and Fabrication at Western Dakota Technical Institute

    Bio:
    Bill Urban is the Drafting & Machining Technologies Program Director. He received his A.A.S. in Welding and Fabrication at Western Dakota Technical Institute. He began teaching at Western Dakota Tech in 2004.

    With more than 25 years of machining and fabrication experience, Urban has owned and operated his own business providing custom machining, fabrication, and manufacturing services to several industries. He has manufactured products for the Homestake Mine, as well as for the agricultural, logging, aviation, motorcycle, and advanced metal processing industries. His experience spans the spectrum of conventional and CNC machining and the use of CAD/CAM systems.


    Jeannie Wiege

    Practical Nursing Instructor

    (605) 393-5817
    Jeannie.Wiege@wdt.edu
    Whitewood Location


    Education and Credentials

    B.S. in Nursing at South Dakota State University

    Bio:
    Jeannie Wiege is a Registered Nurse and also received a Bachelor's degree in Nursing from South Dakota State University. She has worked for the last 15 years in the GI Department at Rapid City Medical Center. Previous to that, Wiege was a Long-Term Care Nurse for about 10 years at Northern Mt. Health Care in Montana.

    Christina Zweber

    Practical Nursing Offsite Coordinator/Instructor

    (605) 718-2980
    Christina.Zweber@wdt.edu
    W131L


    Education and Credentials

    B.S. in Nursing at South Dakota State University
    M.A. of Nursing Science at Capella University

    Bio:
    Christina Zweber is a Registered Nurse earning a Bachelor's degree in Nursing from South Dakota State University and a Master's degree in Nursing from Capella University. Most recently, she worked as the Medical/Orthopedic/Neurology/ Surgical Nurse Manager for Monument Health in Rapid City.

    Human Resources

    Information Technology

    Justin Eiesland

    Technology Technician 1

    (605) 718-4032
    Justin.Eiesland@wdt.edu
    L213C


    Education and Credentials

    A.A.S. in Computer Systems Technology at Mitchell Technical Institute

    Diploma for Computer Networking Specialist at Western Dakota Tech

    Matthew Greene

    Director of Information Systems

    (605) 718-4038
    Matthew.Greene@wdt.edu
    L213D


    Education and Credentials

    B.S. in Information Technology - Emphasis Network Management/Microsoft at National American University

    Jennifer Tyre

    Data Support Technician

    (605) 718-2575
    Jennifer.Tyre@wdt.edu
    D227


    Education and Credentials

    A.A.S. in Computer Programming, Networking, and CAD at Western Dakota Technical College

    Institutional Effectiveness

    Jill Elder

    Director of Compliance and Financial Aid

    (605) 718-2411
    Jill.Elder@wdt.edu
    SS - D117


    Education and Credentials

    B.S. in Business Administration at National American University

    NASFAA Return of Title IV Funds Credential

    NASFAA Consumer Information Credential

    NASFAA Gainful Employment Credential

    NASFAA Professional Judgement Credential

    NASFAA Direct Loan Credential

    NASFAA Verification Credential

    NASFAA Administrative Capability Credential

    NASFAA Satisfactory Academic Progress Credential

    NASFAA Federal Pell Grant Credential

    NASFAA Cost of Attendance Credential

    Kelly Oehlerking

    Vice President for Institutional Effectiveness and Student Success/Title IX Coordinator

    (605) 718-2931
    Kelly.Oehlerking@wdt.edu
    Admin - D206


    Education and Credentials

    B.S. in Business with an emphasis in Business Administration at Black Hills State University

    M.S. in Administrative Studies with an emphasis in Human Resources at University of South Dakota

    NASFAA Satisfactory Academic Progress Credential

    ATIXA Investigator Level One Credential

    Sara Rembold

    Executive Administrative Assistant – VP for Institutional Effectiveness and Student Success

    (605) 718-2949
    Sara.Rembold@wdt.edu
    Admin - D225C


    Education and Credentials

    B.S. in Business Management Rocky Mountain

    Leadership

    Ann Bolman, Ed.D

    President


    Ann.Bolman@wdt.edu
    Dakota Hall-Admin


    Education and Credentials

    B.A. in English at Texas A&I University

    M.A. in English at Texas A&I University

    Ed.D. in Education at Texas A&M University

    Christine Goldsmith

    Vice President for Finance and Operations

    (605) 718-2403
    Christine.Goldsmith@wdt.edu
    SS-D133


    Education and Credentials

    M.B.A. at San Diego State University - Imperial Valley Campus
    B.S. in Business Administration at California State University
    A.A. in General Studies at Santa Rosa Junior College

    Tiffany Howe

    Vice President for Teaching and Learning

    (605) 718-2905
    Tiffany.Howe@wdt.edu
    Admin - D220


    Education and Credentials

    A.A.S. in Surgical Technology at Presentation College

    B.A. in Organizational Management - Biology at Ashford University

    M.B.A. in Project Management at Colorado Technical University

    M.B.A. in Healthcare Management at Colorado Technical University

    Kelly Oehlerking

    Vice President for Institutional Effectiveness and Student Success/Title IX Coordinator

    (605) 718-2931
    Kelly.Oehlerking@wdt.edu
    Admin - D206


    Education and Credentials

    B.S. in Business with an emphasis in Business Administration at Black Hills State University

    M.S. in Administrative Studies with an emphasis in Human Resources at University of South Dakota

    NASFAA Satisfactory Academic Progress Credential

    ATIXA Investigator Level One Credential

    Debbie Toms

    Vice President for Data Strategy and Enrollment Management

    (605) 718-2958
    Deborah.Toms@wdt.edu
    Admin D225D


    Education and Credentials

    B.S. in Elementary Education and Special Education at Northern State University

    M.S. in Curriculum and Instruction at Black Hills State University

    NASFAA Consumer Information Credential

    NASFAA Satisfactory Academic Progress Credential

    ATIXA Investigator Level One Credential

    Ombuds

    Services for Veterans

    Chandra Calvert

    Director of Industry Relations & Grant Management

    (605) 718-2419
    Chandra.Calvert@wdt.edu
    L110


    Education and Credentials

    B.S. in English/Music Ed at University of Mary

    M.A. in English at Colorado State University

    Sharon Martin

    Assistant Director of Financial Aid

    (605) 718-2422
    Sharon.Martin@wdt.edu
    SS - D119


    Education and Credentials

    NASFAA Return of Title IV Funds Credential

    NASFAA Consumer Information Credential

    NASFAA Gainful Employment Credential

    NASFAA Professional Judgement Credential

    NASFAA Direct Loan Credential

    NASFAA Verification Credential

    NASFAA Administrative Capability Credential

    NASFAA Satisfactory Academic Progress Credential

    NASFAA Federal Pell Grant Credential

    NASFAA Cost of Attendance Credential

    Wanda Roe

    Admissions Specialist

    (605) 718-2963
    Wanda.Roe@wdt.edu
    SS - D111


    Education and Credentials

    A.A.S., National American University

    B.S., National American University

    M.M., National American University

    Debbie Toms

    Vice President for Data Strategy and Enrollment Management

    (605) 718-2958
    Deborah.Toms@wdt.edu
    Admin D225D


    Education and Credentials

    B.S. in Elementary Education and Special Education at Northern State University

    M.S. in Curriculum and Instruction at Black Hills State University

    NASFAA Consumer Information Credential

    NASFAA Satisfactory Academic Progress Credential

    ATIXA Investigator Level One Credential

    Simulation Center

    Joelle Boshart

    Program Director - Health Information Management

    Simulation Operations Specialist

    (605) 718-2918
    Joelle.Boshart@wdt.edu
    W131A


    Education and Credentials

    Certified Professional Coder - Coder II (CPC)

    Certified Professional Medical Auditor (CPMA)

    Certified Evaluation and Management Coder (CEMC)

    Bio:
    Joelle Boshart is the WDTC Health Information Management Program Director. She is a Certified Professional Coder. She began coding and billing in 1986 and over the years has worked in numerous medical practices and hospital settings. Specialties include Plastic and Reconstructive Surgery, Orthopedic Surgery, Colo-Rectal Surgery, General Surgery, Dermatology, Pulmonology, Neurology and Sleep Medicine, Pain
    Management and Rehabilitation, Anesthesiology, Internal Medicine, and Family Practice. In 2014, she was awarded “Compliance Champion” by Regional Health Corporate Responsibility for “Always striving to do the right thing”. In the past she has held Board seats with APSPA (Association of Plastic Surgery Physician Assistants) as Member at Large – West, Race for the Cure, Orange County Chapter as Member Secretary, and served as Treasurer for AAPC (American Association of Professional Coders) Rapid City Chapter from 2020-2021.

    Roger Habermann

    Assistant Director Simulation

    (605) 718-2915
    Roger.Habermann@wdt.edu
    W103


    Education and Credentials

    A.A.S. in Engineering Technology Southwestern Illinois College – Benton LA

    Essentials in Clinical Simulations Certificate -George Washington University

    CHSOS – Certified Healthcare Simulation Operation Specialist

    Tiffany Howe

    Vice President for Teaching and Learning

    (605) 718-2905
    Tiffany.Howe@wdt.edu
    Admin - D220


    Education and Credentials

    A.A.S. in Surgical Technology at Presentation College

    B.A. in Organizational Management - Biology at Ashford University

    M.B.A. in Project Management at Colorado Technical University

    M.B.A. in Healthcare Management at Colorado Technical University

    Krista Kirst

    Director of Simulation

    (605) 718-2910
    Krista.Kirst@wdt.edu
    W131K


    Education and Credentials

    B.S. in Secondary History Education at Black Hills State University

    Bio:
    Krista Kirst has a Bachelor’s degree in secondary history education from Black Hills State University and more than five years of high school teaching experience. She also has a background in health care working at Rapid City Regional Hospital/Monument in their OB Unit. Kirst is certified in CPR, CNA, First Aid, Medication Aid and Prevention Intervention.

    Strategic Communications and Marketing

    Pam Stillman-Rokusek

    Director of Strategic Communications & Marketing

    (605) 718-2970
    Pam.Stillman-Rokusek@wdt.edu
    SS - D122


    Education and Credentials

    B.S. in Journalism and Sociology at South Dakota State University

    National Council for Marketing & Public Relations Region 5 S.D. Representative

    Student Accounts

    Beth Sparby

    Student Accounts Coordinator

    (605) 718-2540
    Elizabeth.Sparby@wdt.edu
    D143


    Education and Credentials

    Accounting A.A.S., Western Dakota Tech

    Bursars Lite Professional Certificate


    Student Success

    Kelly Oehlerking

    Vice President for Institutional Effectiveness and Student Success/Title IX Coordinator

    (605) 718-2931
    Kelly.Oehlerking@wdt.edu
    Admin - D206


    Education and Credentials

    B.S. in Business with an emphasis in Business Administration at Black Hills State University

    M.S. in Administrative Studies with an emphasis in Human Resources at University of South Dakota

    NASFAA Satisfactory Academic Progress Credential

    ATIXA Investigator Level One Credential

    Misty Watts

    Student Success Coach

    (605) 718-2960
    Misty.Watts@wdt.edu
    Library - D160T


    Education and Credentials

    B.A. in Communications/Philosophy from University of Tennessee at Martin

    Support Staff

    Angela Baker

    Instructional Support Coordinator

    (605) 718-2909
    Angela.Baker@wdt.edu
    Admin D222


    Education and Credentials

    B.S. in Business Management at National American University

    Justin Eiesland

    Technology Technician 1

    (605) 718-4032
    Justin.Eiesland@wdt.edu
    L213C


    Education and Credentials

    A.A.S. in Computer Systems Technology at Mitchell Technical Institute

    Diploma for Computer Networking Specialist at Western Dakota Tech

    Gary Gregson

    College Dining Services Assistant

    (605) 718-2431
    Gary.Gregson@wdt.edu
    W167


    Education and Credentials

    B.A. in Music Education at Black Hills State University

    Sarah Ludes

    Administrative Assistant II - Enrollment Services

    (605) 718-2400
    sarah.ludes@wdt.edu
    SS-D104


    Education and Credentials

    A.A.S. in Library Technician at Western Dakota Technical College

    Emalee McRae

    Environmental Programs Lab Specialist

    (605) 718-2982
    Emalee.McRae@wdt.edu
    L212


    Education and Credentials

    A.A.S. in Environmental Engineering Technology at Western Dakota Technical College

    Sara Rembold

    Executive Administrative Assistant – VP for Institutional Effectiveness and Student Success

    (605) 718-2949
    Sara.Rembold@wdt.edu
    Admin - D225C


    Education and Credentials

    B.S. in Business Management Rocky Mountain

    Wanda Roe

    Admissions Specialist

    (605) 718-2963
    Wanda.Roe@wdt.edu
    SS - D111


    Education and Credentials

    A.A.S., National American University

    B.S., National American University

    M.M., National American University

    Noelle Simmons

    Senior Executive Assistant to the President and Secretary of the Board of Trustees

    (605) 718-2401
    noelle.simmons@wdt.edu
    Admin - D215


    Education and Credentials

    B.S. in Psychology at Washington State University
    M.A. in Community Counseling at Washington State University

    Beth Sparby

    Student Accounts Coordinator

    (605) 718-2540
    Elizabeth.Sparby@wdt.edu
    D143


    Education and Credentials

    Accounting A.A.S., Western Dakota Tech

    Bursars Lite Professional Certificate


    Jennifer Tyre

    Data Support Technician

    (605) 718-2575
    Jennifer.Tyre@wdt.edu
    D227


    Education and Credentials

    A.A.S. in Computer Programming, Networking, and CAD at Western Dakota Technical College

    Title IX

    Jill Elder

    Director of Compliance and Financial Aid

    (605) 718-2411
    Jill.Elder@wdt.edu
    SS - D117


    Education and Credentials

    B.S. in Business Administration at National American University

    NASFAA Return of Title IV Funds Credential

    NASFAA Consumer Information Credential

    NASFAA Gainful Employment Credential

    NASFAA Professional Judgement Credential

    NASFAA Direct Loan Credential

    NASFAA Verification Credential

    NASFAA Administrative Capability Credential

    NASFAA Satisfactory Academic Progress Credential

    NASFAA Federal Pell Grant Credential

    NASFAA Cost of Attendance Credential

    Kelly Oehlerking

    Vice President for Institutional Effectiveness and Student Success/Title IX Coordinator

    (605) 718-2931
    Kelly.Oehlerking@wdt.edu
    Admin - D206


    Education and Credentials

    B.S. in Business with an emphasis in Business Administration at Black Hills State University

    M.S. in Administrative Studies with an emphasis in Human Resources at University of South Dakota

    NASFAA Satisfactory Academic Progress Credential

    ATIXA Investigator Level One Credential

    WDTC Board of Trustees

    West River AHEC

    Jocelyn Depatie

    WR AHEC Coordinator

    (605) 718-4314
    Jocelyn.Depatie@bhsu.edu
    BHSU at RC Campus 4300 Cheyenne Blvd. Rapid City SD 57703 Office 114B


    Education and Credentials

    A.A.S. in Physical Therapist Assistant at San Juan College

    B.S. in Business Administration at University of New Mexico

    M.S. in Higher Education at Walden University

    Annette Hill

    Assistant Director WR AHEC

    (605) 718-4327
    Annette.Hill@bhsu.edu
    BHSU at RC Campus 4300 Cheyenne Blvd. Rapid City SD 57703 Office 114E


    Education and Credentials

    B.S. in Chemistry at Purdue University
    MPH in Public Health at Southern New Hampshire University

    Stephanie Mayfield

    Director of West River Area Health Education Center

    (605)718-4077
    Stephanie.Mayfield@bhsu.edu
    BHSU at RC Campus, 4300 Cheyenne Blvd, Rapid City, SD 57703 Office 114D


    Education and Credentials

      B.S. in Business Administration @ Dickinson State University

      West River CTE Consortium

      Fawn Wilde

      Director of the Western Statewide CTE Consortium

      (605) 718-2961
      Fawn.Wilde@wdt.edu
      Admin D226


      Education and Credentials

      B.S. in Psychology at Black Hills State University

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