Three universities propose Center for National Defense in Rapid City to train defense workforce

Presidents from Black Hills State, South Dakota Mines and Dakota State presented a joint proposal to establish a Center for National Defense in Rapid City intended to connect higher education, government and industry to prepare a local defense workforce. Steve Elliott of Black Hills State said the center would leverage proximity to Ellsworth Air Force Base and regional defense contractors to offer experiential and work‑based learning in defense acquisition, program management and logistics.

Elliott said the center would be implemented in phases tied to enrollment and workforce demand; at full implementation the center is projected to operate with 7 full‑time equivalent staff and an annual budget of approximately $1,000,000. Regents voiced support and noted the initiative's potential to strengthen regional economic development and student career pathways. There was no final vote on funding at the meeting; presidents requested board endorsement as part of the coordinated budget conversation.