Western Dakota Tech is addressing the needs of the workforce and students by starting a new diploma program in Precision Machining Technology and changing its popular Practical Nursing program into an Associate of Applied Science degree.
WDT is now accepting applications for the programs. Classes will begin in the fall 2013 semester that begins in August.
"Skilled employees are needed in these fields," WDT President Mark Wilson said. "These programs will give students the skills they need to be successful in careers that are growing and in demand."
Both programs have been designed with industry input so the courses will provide the skills students need.
Graduates of the nine-month, two-semester Precision Machining Technology program will be able to:
- Demonstrate knowledge and hands-on competencies in manufacturing/mechanical production, computers, machining instrumentation systems, and mechanical CAD
- Apply critical thinking to technical problems
- Understand a commitment to quality, timeliness, and continuous improvement
- Apply basic concepts of math, blueprint reading inspection, and knowledge of machining and manufacturing while producing quality products that meet customer specifications
- Work in a safe and efficient manner
Labor market information for South Dakota indicates that the demand for workers in the Machining field is strong now and in the future. Through 2020, the number of machinists is expected to grow by 13.8 percent, according to the South Dakota Labor Market Information Center.
The median hourly wage of machinists was $18.52 in May 2010, according to the U.S. Department of Labor. The median wage is the wage at which half the workers in an occupation earned more than that amount and half earned less. The lowest 10 percent earned less than $11.59, and the top 10 percent earned more than $27.91.
Graduates of the 19-month, five-semester Practical Nursing program will be able to:
- Summarize patients' levels of wellness based on Maslow's Hierarchy of Needs
- Analyze patient data and apply the nursing process in implementing and evaluating patient care
- Utilize effective communication techniques with patients, family and health care team members
- Demonstrate effective use of technology relevant to various health care settings
- Discriminate between effective and ineffective teamwork techniques in the health care setting
- Compare how cultural values, behaviors, attitudes, and psychosocial factors affect the implementation of the nursing process
- Practice professional nursing behaviors through appearance, conduct, attitudes, ethical and legal standards
Labor market information for the state indicates that the demand for Licensed Practical Nurses is strong now and in the future. Through 2020, the number of Licensed Practical Nurses is expected to grow by 16.2 percent, according to the South Dakota Labor Market Information Center (LMIC).
Nationally, the median annual wage of licensed practical and licensed vocational nurses was $40,380 in May 2010, according to the U.S. Department of Labor. The lowest 10 percent earned less than $29,680, and the top 10 percent earned more than $56,010.
Western Dakota Tech is the only technical institute that serves the western South Dakota region. WDT offers more than 30 programs in a variety of fields, including Business and Computers, Construction Trades, Health Services, Legal and Public Services, Manufacturing and Mechanical Trades, and Science and Technology. More than 96 percent of WDT's most recent graduates are working, continuing their education, or serving in the military, and 90 percent remain in South Dakota.
WDT faculty, staff, and administration focus their efforts on helping students gain the skills and experiences they need to succeed. Through hands-on learning, internships, and industry partnerships, WDT students graduate ready to make real and immediate contributions to their employers and their communities.
For information about WDT, call (800) 544-8765 or (605) 718-2565 or send an email to admissions@wdt.edu. Visit WDT on the web at www.wdt.edu.
