Mitchell Technical Institute Community-Based Job
Training (CBJT) Grant "SD Energy Training"
The primary purpose of the
CBJT grants
is to build the capacity of community colleges to train workers to
develop the skills required to succeed in high growth/high demand
industries. Mitchell Technical Institute was awarded a CBJT Grant in
February 2009 to expand training for workers in a variety of energy
related careers. The grant award period is for three years, from
February 2009 to February 2012. Highlight of this project are outlined
below:
ChallengeThe nation is currently faced with a shortage of workers in the energy fields,particularly in the renewable energy field. Wind energy alone is expected to generate demand for nearly 100,000 new jobs without the commensurate training facilities or resources in place. South Dakota’s geographic location, natural resources, and climate make it an ideal location to exploit wind and domestic energy generation. Unfortunately, the lack of adequate training and educational resources are compounded by the impending retirement of approximately 25% of South Dakota’s electrical distribution and utility workers. Grant funds will allow the Mitchell Technical Institute (MTI) to begin addressing the state’s training and education needs.
Key PartnersSouth Dakota Workforce Investment Board; South Dakota Department of Labor; Rosebud Economic Development Corporation; South Dakota Rural Electric Association; Black Hills Corporation; High Plains Technical School; and South Dakota Department of Education; Office of Career and Technical Education.
Addressing the ChallengeMTI plans to use the grant and leveraged funds to expand existing and proven programs in Power Line Construction and Maintenance, and Propane and Natural Gas Technology. This initiative will also add a new Wind Turbine Technology program beginning in the fall of 2009 to address the needs of the wind generation sector. Investments will be made in new training equipment, educational facilities,and additional faculty to implement this plan. Further, MTI and its partners will initiate an
outreach program aimed at disadvantaged and Native American populations as well as the K-12 education system to raise awareness of energy-related careers.
Grant Amount$1,993,723 (direct funding from US Department of Labor)
Leveraged Amount: $5,553,000 (non-grant funds and resources from MTI, project partners and others)
For more information contact:
John Heemstra
Mitchell Technical Institute
Outreach Coordinator
(605) 995-7204