What Is It Known For?
Founded in 2004 as a nonprofit organization, the Regional Technical Education Center (RTEC) was established to provide career and technical education. By 2005, the school launched its first training programs, adapting over time to meet local workforce demands. Through partnerships with Northeast Community College, Mitchell Technical Institute, and the South Dakota Department of Labor and Regulation, RTEC has expanded its reach and resources.
The school continues to focus on strengthening the community by equipping students with hands-on training and industry-relevant skills. While enrollment numbers are not publicly available, RTEC remains committed to workforce development by working closely with local businesses and providing technical education opportunities.
Degrees & Certifications
Courses at RTEC are designed to be completed in a short time frame, typically lasting six to seven weeks. Programs available include:
- Advanced Welding
- CNC Machining
- Welding Basics
- Class Schedules
Class schedules at RTEC vary by program, offering both daytime and evening options. CNC Machining classes run Monday through Thursday from 8:00 AM to 12:00 PM, while Advanced Welding is held on Tuesday and Thursday evenings from 4:00 to 8:00 PM. Welding Basics follows a similar evening schedule on Mondays and Wednesdays.
The school does not offer online courses or externships, but students can benefit from job placement assistance. This support helps graduates connect with employment opportunities in their field after completing their training.
Is It a Good School?
RTEC is recognized as an American Welding Society Accredited Testing Facility (AWS ATF), ensuring its programs meet industry standards.
The school has also partnered with Northeast Community College, Mitchell Technical Institute, and the South Dakota Department of Labor and Regulation, reinforcing its commitment to quality technical education.
Acceptance Rate
There is no publicly available information on RTEC’s acceptance rate.
How Much Does Tuition Cost?
Tuition rates at the Regional Technical Education Center (RTEC) vary by program:
- Advanced Welding: $2,100 plus applicable tax
- CNC Machining: $4,290 plus applicable tax
- Welding Basics: $2,100 plus applicable tax
Additional costs may apply for materials and equipment. For a full breakdown of expenses, we recommend contacting the school directly since they don’t have a net price calculator.
Programs & Courses
Skilled Trades
- Welding
- CNC Machining
Campus Locations
Yankton 1200 W. 21st Street, Yankton, SD 57078
Reviews
Based on Google reviews online, RTEC has a very strong and consistently positive reputation/
Overall Score: 5.0/5 Stars
Common Praises
Positive Learning Environment: The sole review praises RTEC for offering a “Great learning environment.”
Focus on High-Demand Trades: Broader information about RTEC confirms its mission is to provide hands-on, industry-relevant skills training, primarily in skilled trades.
Industry Accreditation and Partnerships: RTEC is recognized as an American Welding Society (AWS) Accredited Testing Facility and partnered with area institutions like Northeast Community College and Mitchell Technical Institute, ensuring its programs met high industry standards.
Workforce Development: The center historically focused on job placement, with local employers often hiring students directly from the training programs.
Momentum
The momentum for RTEC is currently halted, as public information indicates the Regional Technical Education Center (RTEC) ceased operations on July 31, 2025 (according to its official website). Historically, the momentum was positive, with a focus on responding to local training needs and working with employers. Any future education or training at this location or through this organization would depend on a decision to resume or re-launch programs.