Gov. Rhoden Announces New Gunsmithing Program at Western Dakota Tech

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FOR IMMEDIATE RELEASE

April 14, 2026

Contact: Josie Harms

Gov. Rhoden Announces New Gunsmithing Program at Western Dakota Tech

RAPID CITY, S.D. - Today, Governor Larry Rhoden announced the addition of a new gunsmithing curriculum to Western Dakota Technical College, advancing South Dakota's pro-2nd Amendment values and expanding the workforce for South Dakota's defense and firearms industries.

"South Dakota is the most Second Amendment-friendly state in America, and our firearms industry is thriving," said Governor Larry Rhoden. "As other states infringe on the 2nd Amendment rights of their citizens and chase away firearms producers, South Dakota is welcoming them with open arms. This new gunsmithing program will support our growing firearms industry and attract even more guns and ammunition manufacturers to South Dakota!"

Governor Rhoden is awarding $4 million from the Future Fund to Western Dakota Technical College to support the purchase of equipment and related assets and ultimately acquire an accredited gunsmithing school in Colorado. The program will expand hands-on training and help meet workforce needs across South Dakota's defense and firearms industries. Graduates of the current program find careers with law enforcement, military agencies, and firearm manufacturers.

"Western Dakota Technical College is committed to providing training and education that meets the needs of our industries and South Dakota students," said Kendra Ericson, president of Western Dakota Technical College. "This allows us to expand our programs and prepare students for high-demand careers while supporting continued industry growth."

The announcement was attended by several firearms companies headquartered in South Dakota - many of which moved here from states infringing on the 2nd Amendment rights of their citizens. Attendees also included leadership from Western Dakota Technical College, the Board of Technical Education, Rapid City Government, Elevate Rapid City, Pete Lien and Sons Shooting Sports Complex.

This announcement builds upon Governor Rhoden's announcement last week of a new South Dakota Defense Institute in Rapid City. The new gunsmithing program at Western Dakota Tech will support South Dakota's growing defense industry.

"When I met with Dr. Ericson on my Open for Opportunity Tour visit last year, we discussed this possibility. I went back to the office and got to work to make it happen," said Governor Larry Rhoden. "We are here today to celebrate the results of that meeting, and another win for our students, our workforce, our businesses, and our firearms industry."

Western Dakota Technical College is expected to accept their first class into the program in the fall of 2027.

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