Rapid City, SD – Western Dakota Technical College (WDT) has been honored as one of TIME’s inaugural list of America’s Best Community Colleges for 2027. The college joins 250 public community colleges across the nation that were evaluated by TIME in partnership with data‑analytics firm Statista.
Evaluation criteria highlight local impact
The rankings considered publicly available data from the Integrated Postsecondary Education Data System and the U.S. Department of Education’s College Scorecard. Factors included student success rates, graduate earnings, return on investment, diversity and campus resources. WDT’s strong performance in these areas reflects its long‑standing focus on workforce‑ready education for western South Dakota.
President Ericson praises faculty, students and regional partners
President Dr. Kendra Ericson said the recognition validates the hard work of the college’s students, faculty and staff. “To be recognized alongside institutions that are actively shaping the future of higher education is both an honor and a validation of our mission,” Ericson said in a statement. She added that WDT’s partnerships with local employers ensure that its programs directly support the regional economy.
Programs and history serve the community
Founded in 1968, Western Dakota Technical College is the only technical college serving western South Dakota. The Rapid City campus offers nearly 40 associate‑degree, certificate and diploma programs, plus workforce‑training and professional‑development courses through its Corporate Education Center. These offerings are designed to prepare students for well‑paying jobs in fields such as health care, advanced manufacturing, information technology and skilled trades.
Local businesses and families benefit
Employers throughout the Black Hills region have praised WDT for supplying a pipeline of skilled workers ready to fill critical vacancies. Families appreciate the college’s affordable tuition, hands‑on learning model and the ability for students to stay close to home while earning credentials that lead to stable careers.
Looking ahead
WDT plans to expand its apprenticeship programs and deepen collaborations with regional industry leaders. The college’s leadership says the TIME accolade will help attract additional resources, faculty talent and prospective students who are eager to contribute to the prosperity of western South Dakota.
More information about Western Dakota Technical College and its programs can be found at wdt.edu.
Original reporting: KOTA (Gray) – local — read the source article.
