PIERRE, S.D. – Governor Larry Rhoden has proclaimed April 26 to May 2, 2026, as National Apprenticeship Week in South Dakota, highlighting the impact of hands-on training on the workforce across the state.

The proclamation comes as South Dakota prepares to transition its oversight of these programs. In February 2026, Rhoden signed Senate Bill 63, which created the State Office of Apprenticeship within the Department of Labor and Regulation. The move establishes South Dakota as a State Apprenticeship Agency, moving authority from the federal level to a state-governed system.

“Apprenticeships create real opportunities for South Dakotans to build meaningful careers, and they meet workforce needs of our growing industries,” Rhoden said. “We are making it easier for businesses to develop talent and for workers to succeed right here at home.”

The state will host an Apprenticeship Summit in Sioux Falls on Thursday, April 30. The event serves as a recognition ceremony for employers, program sponsors, and apprentices who finished their training within the last year.

State officials noted that the new agency status is intended to make the “earn-while-you-learn” model more accessible for various industries.

“Becoming a State Apprenticeship Agency is a major step forward for South Dakota,” said state Labor and Regulation Secretary Marcia Hultman. “It allows us to be more responsive to industry needs, expand apprenticeship into new sectors, and support employers and apprentices with a system built right here at home.”

As the state observes the week during the year of the United States’ 250th anniversary, officials are encouraging Rapid City businesses and residents to explore available resources. Information regarding the summit and program sponsorship is available through the state’s apprenticeship portal.