Western Dakota Technical College (WDTC), located in Rapid City, South Dakota, is a public community and technical college dedicated to providing hands-on, career-oriented education. Established in 1968, WDTC offers associate degrees, diplomas, and certificates in fields like health sciences, automotive technology, business, information technology, and construction trades. With a student body of around 1,200, the college emphasizes practical training that prepares graduates for immediate employment in South Dakota's growing industries, particularly in healthcare and manufacturing. Jobs at Western Dakota Technical College attract professionals passionate about vocational education and community impact.
The campus spans multiple locations in Rapid City, including a main site and specialized facilities for welding and nursing simulations. WDTC's focus on affordability and accessibility makes it a hub for community college jobs, where instructors bridge classroom learning with real-world application. The college's motto, 'Skills for Life,' reflects its commitment to student success, with high job placement rates exceeding 90% in many programs.
Founded as Western Dakota Vo-Tech Institute in 1968, WDTC evolved from South Dakota's need for skilled tradespeople amid post-war industrial growth. It became a technical college in 1992, expanding to include advanced programs like radiologic technology and precision machining. Key milestones include the 2010 merger with a nursing school and recent expansions in cybersecurity training to meet regional demands. Today, WDTC serves the Black Hills region, partnering with employers like Regional Health and local manufacturers.
This history shapes jobs at WDTC, prioritizing instructors with industry experience over traditional PhDs, fostering a dynamic environment for practical educators.
WDTC's programs span 30+ areas, from practical nursing (ADN) to diesel technology. Faculty jobs involve teaching in labs and classrooms, developing curriculum, and advising students. Administrative roles include program coordinators and admissions staff. Popular openings include adjunct instructors for evening classes and full-time positions in high-demand fields like phlebotomy and HVAC.
Career opportunities extend to support roles like librarians and counselors. For a full list of university job types, visit our guide. Current listings often seek candidates for health occupations, reflecting Rapid City's medical hub status.
Technical College: An institution offering vocational and associate degrees focused on job-ready skills, unlike research universities. WDTC exemplifies this by prioritizing associate of applied science (AAS) degrees.
Adjunct Instructor: Part-time faculty teaching specific courses, common at WDTC for flexible staffing.
Workforce Development: Programs aligning education with local industry needs, central to WDTC's mission in South Dakota.
For instructor jobs at Western Dakota Technical College, a minimum bachelor's degree is required in the teaching field, with associate degrees acceptable for some trades. Industry certifications like ASE for automotive or RN for nursing are essential. Research focus is applied, such as grant-funded projects in renewable energy or healthcare simulation.
Preferred experience includes 3-5 years in industry and teaching. Skills include hands-on instruction, curriculum design, and student assessment. Competencies: adaptability, communication, and cultural sensitivity for diverse learners in Rapid City.
To apply for jobs at WDTC, visit the college's HR portal or higher ed jobs listings on AcademicJobs.com. Submit resume, cover letter, transcripts, and references. Interviews involve teaching demos and panel discussions.
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WDTC's initiatives include the Diversity Council, promoting equity training and recruitment from underrepresented groups, including Native American communities via partnerships with Oglala Lakota College. They offer TRIO programs for first-generation students and celebrate cultural events like Native American Heritage Month. Hiring practices prioritize diverse candidates, with goals for inclusive faculty representation.
WDTC supports balance with 10 paid holidays, health benefits, and tuition waivers for employees' children. Campus life features wellness centers, team-building hikes in the Black Hills, and family events. Rapid City's location offers skiing, Mount Rushmore proximity, and low cost of living, making it ideal for faculty. Reviews praise collaborative atmosphere and flexible schedules for adjuncts.
Jobs at Western Dakota Technical College offer rewarding opportunities in technical education. Explore higher ed jobs, higher ed career advice, university jobs, or post a job on AcademicJobs.com for more. With strong community ties in Rapid City, WDTC is perfect for passionate educators.
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