RAPID CITY, S.D. — Western Dakota Technical College (WDTC) is reporting its highest fall enrollment growth in years alongside a 100% placement rate for its most recent graduates.
The college’s fall 2025 headcount climbed to 1,296 students, marking an 8.1% increase over the previous year. Enrollment of degree-seeking students rose by 9.3%, while dual enrollment among high school students grew by 4.1%, totaling 411 participants.
WDTC’s 2024 Placement Report shows all recent graduates are either employed, continuing their education, or enlisted in the military. Of those, 96% are working in their field of study, and 93% remain employed in South Dakota. One year after graduation, WDTC alumni working in their fields earn an average of $27.48 per hour—the highest wage reported among the state’s technical colleges and nearly a 10% jump over the prior year.
“Our enrollment growth and placement results show the power of technical education to change lives,” WDTC President Dr. Kendra Ericson said in a statement. “Students are choosing WDTC because we provide a fast track to high-need, great-paying careers.”
Established in 1968, WDTC is the only technical college serving western South Dakota. The institution offers nearly 40 programs in fields ranging from health sciences to manufacturing, most of which can be completed in two years or less.
The school attributes its success to hands-on learning, internships, and partnerships with industry leaders across the Black Hills and the state.
