Report: Nearly all technical‑college graduates employed; median in‑field wage about $26.40 per hour

The South Dakota Board of Technical Education reviewed its annual graduate outcomes report for the 2024–25 academic year and highlighted high placement rates and in‑state retention. Jenna presented the report, saying 98.8% of employable graduates are employed, 91% are working in a program‑related field and about 86% are employed in South Dakota. Jenna reported the average in‑field hourly wage as $26.40, which she said equates to roughly $54,900 per year for full‑time work.

Jenna explained the data come from campus surveys conducted about six months post‑graduation supplemented by Department of Labor and unemployment‑insurance records, and that some small programs (fewer than five graduates) were redacted for confidentiality though their totals are included in system‑level numbers. A board member asked whether the report is submitted to the legislature; Nick answered that the board submits an accountability report to the governor and the Government Oversight and Accountability Committee (GOAC) in the fall and includes it in appropriations briefings in the spring.

Board members praised the outcomes as evidence of program alignment with workforce needs and noted the report can serve as an “elevator speech” for advocacy with legislators. The board did not vote on the report; it was presented and discussed as part of routine annual reporting.