Southeast Technical College
Trade Schools and Apprenticeships in South Dakota / Southeast Technical College
Southeast Technical College – Sioux Falls, SD
Program Information
Southeast Technical College (Southeast Tech) is South Dakota’s largest technical college and serves as a primary workforce training pipeline for the region’s construction, manufacturing, and skilled trades industries. Located in Sioux Falls, the college is known for its employer-driven curriculum, modern training facilities, and strong job placement outcomes. Programs are designed in collaboration with regional contractors, utilities, and industrial employers to ensure graduates are prepared for real job sites—not just the classroom.
The Electrical Technology program at Southeast Tech is built to prepare students for entry-level electrician roles and formal apprenticeships. Students receive hands-on instruction in residential, commercial, and introductory industrial electrical systems. Training includes conduit bending, wiring methods, electrical panel installation, motor controls, blueprint interpretation, and grounding techniques. A strong emphasis is placed on the National Electrical Code (NEC), electrical safety practices, and jobsite procedures commonly used across South Dakota and the Upper Midwest.
Southeast Tech’s HVAC program focuses on the installation, service, and troubleshooting of heating, ventilation, air conditioning, and refrigeration systems commonly used in both residential and light commercial settings. Students train on furnaces, boilers, air conditioners, heat pumps, and refrigeration systems while learning system diagnostics, airflow measurement, and preventative maintenance. Coursework also includes preparation for industry-recognized credentials such as EPA Section 608 certification.
The Welding Technology program at Southeast Tech offers intensive hands-on training in fabrication and welding processes used by regional manufacturers and construction companies. Students learn MIG, TIG, and Stick welding techniques, along with cutting processes, blueprint reading, and metal fabrication. Training takes place in modern welding labs that simulate real production environments, helping graduates transition smoothly into manufacturing, structural welding, or construction roles.
Hands-On Training & Industry Connections
All trade programs at Southeast Tech emphasize applied learning. Students spend a significant portion of their time in labs that mirror real-world jobsite conditions. The college maintains strong partnerships with local employers, allowing instructors to tailor coursework to current workforce needs. Many students secure employment offers before graduation through internships, employer networking events, and job placement support services.
Program Length
Most technical programs at Southeast Technical College are completed in 1 to 2 years, depending on the specific program and credential pursued. Programs are structured to balance classroom instruction with extensive hands-on lab training.
Program Requirements
- High School Diploma or GED
- Ability to meet physical demands of hands-on trade work
- Commitment to safety standards and technical training
- Completion of program-specific placement or prerequisite requirements, if applicable
Cost & Career Outlook
Based on publicly reported data for Southeast Kentucky Community & Technical College (Cumberland, KY) — U.S. Department of Education College Scorecard.
Program Type: Trade or Technical Training
In-State Tuition
Out-of-State Tuition
Median Earnings (10 yrs)
Time to Earn It Back
ROI Grade
About this data: Tuition and earnings are averages from federal College Scorecard data for comparable programs at Southeast Kentucky Community & Technical College. Actual costs may vary by program length, residency, and supplies. Earnings reflect median salaries ten years after entering the institution. This helps estimate how quickly your training can pay off in real-world wages.
Step-by-Step Career Guides
The programs and apprenticeships listed on this page relate to hands-on skilled trades. Explore the guides below to learn about training paths, licensing, salaries, and what to expect in each career field.