Fall 2022 application period is open now. The deadline to apply is Friday, Aug. 5.
Western Dakota Technical College (WDTC) is proud to participate in SD UpSkill. SD UpSkill is a unique program offering opportunities for eligible South Dakotans to earn certificates available in high-demand fields from the state's technical colleges at little or no cost. As part of this state program for Fall Semester 2022, WDTC is offering four certificate programs in high-demand fields - EMT/Pre-Paramedic, Phlebotomy, Plumbing, and Professional Truck Driving. (See info links for the programs below.)
SD UpSkill is a partnership between the South Dakota Board of Technical Education and the Department of Labor and Regulation (DLR). Enrollment in this program comes with excellent case management and the full array of services DLR offers job seekers.
Individuals are eligible to apply to the technical college and DLR at any point for consideration of financial assistance for future semesters. Eligibility criteria vary and can include: being laid off from a job, being low income, or having a disability. Eligibility guidelines are outlined in South Dakota Occupational Skill Training Policy 5.27 and also on the SD UpSkill website at https://dlr.sd.gov/workforce_services/individuals/sdupskill/default.aspx.
UpSkill certificates are available online, in-person, and in hybrid formats. The certificates are designed to be completed by Spring 2023.
After completing an UpSkill program, participants can enter a new career field, advance in their current field, or continue their education.
UpSkill is funded through the Governor’s Emergency Education Relief fund and the Workforce Innovation and Opportunity Act funding. Participating Fall Semester 2022 technical colleges include Western Dakota Technical College in Rapid City, Lake Area Technical College in Watertown, Mitchell Technical College in Mitchell, and Southeastern Technical College in Sioux Falls.
For more information, call Admissions at (605) 718-2565 or email Admissions@wdt.edu.