Board approves gunsmithing AAS, paramedic credit pathway, HVAC diploma and prison education location

The South Dakota Board of Technical Education approved a package of substantive program applications that included a new AAS in gunsmithing, a credit‑for‑prior‑learning pathway for paramedic students, a reclassification of an HVAC associate degree to a one‑year diploma, and authorization for Western Dakota Tech to operate at the Rapid City Correctional Facility.

President Erickson told the board Western Dakota Tech’s gunsmithing proposal stems from an asset purchase of intellectual property from a Colorado institution; he said the college plans the first cohort for fall 2027 and estimated the program could enroll around 200 students based on prior performance. Erickson said the acquisition follows conversations with the governor’s Office of Economic Development and industry partners in the Black Hills, and that the gunsmithing curriculum must be adjusted to meet South Dakota AAS requirements.

Southeast Tech’s Christine described a credit‑for‑prior‑learning pathway for the Paramedic Science AAS intended to help licensed paramedics (with roughly two to three target participants initially) complete degree requirements more efficiently; the board moved and approved that substantive change. Erickson also proposed moving the existing HVAC associate degree to a one‑year diploma so students can enter the workforce sooner; that change was approved after a motion and voice vote.

On an additional‑location request, Erickson described plans to offer programming inside the new women’s correctional facility near Rapid City, including entrepreneurial coursework eligible under Second Chance Pell; the board approved the request and noted the program will begin once enrollment and logistics are in place.

All substantive program applications were moved, seconded and approved by voice vote. No recorded roll‑call tallies were taken during these voice votes; the board proceeded to other agenda items following the approvals.