This story is part of a collaboration between the Institute for Nonprofit News’ Rural News Network and Canary Media, South Dakota News Watch, Cardinal News, The Mendocino Voice and The Maine Monitor, with support from Ascendium Education Group. It is reprinted with permission.
MITCHELL, S.D. — Matthew Pearson’s unexpected journey into wind energy highlights a thriving sector in South Dakota. After high school, Pearson explored technical majors at Mitchell Tech and found himself interested in wind energy. Unbeknownst to him, he entered one of the fastest-growing, high-paying trades both in the state and nationally.
Amid workforce shortages, renewable energy offers a wealth of job opportunities for skilled workers to manage wind farms and other facilities. Technical colleges, employers, and the Build Dakota Scholarship program have streamlined pathways to meet this demand. Pearson benefited from a scholarship covering his tuition for a two-year wind technology degree, enabling him to gain experience wiring wind towers across the country.
Initially earning $80,000 annually, his salary rose to $127,000 with a daily allowance. Now, as a father of two, Pearson returns to Mitchell Tech as the sole instructor for the wind energy program. He plans to share his expertise and the promising future of renewable energy jobs with students.
South Dakota ranks among the top states for renewable energy production, with 77% of its power from non-fossil sources. Hydro and wind energy have long been key players, and the state has seen a significant rise in wind production over the last 15 years.
A 68-turbine project recently approved near Clear Lake reflects ongoing investment, though transmission limitations pose future challenges. Expansion plans from nonprofit energy consortiums aim to address this, investing $37 billion to enhance grid capacity over the next decade.
At Lake Area Technical College, students have access to two energy-related tracks: energy technology and operations. These programs cater to hands-on learners interested in maintaining reliable energy systems. Graduates enjoy high employability and competitive salaries.
The technical school system collaborates with the energy industry to ensure students receive relevant training. Mitchell Tech offers a condensed one-year wind energy program, aligning with industry feedback. High school students can also pursue dual enrollment for an early start in renewable energy careers.
Marmen Energy, a major employer in Brandon, builds wind towers and partners with schools to recruit skilled workers. Their employees benefit from competitive wages and strong career growth opportunities, contributing to the increasing demand for wind energy infrastructure nationwide.
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