Southeast Tech Honors December Graduates; Industry Partner at Commencement

Southeast Tech celebrated the achievements of 129 graduates on Friday at its Fall 2018 Commencement ceremony. Held at the Sioux Falls Convention Center, the ceremony featured an address by guest speaker Chris Houwman, president of Malloy Electric.

In addition to conferring Associate’s degrees and diplomas to graduates, the ceremony also included the presentation of the first-ever Industry Partner Award.

Created to honor industry partners who go above and beyond in support of Southeast Tech, the Industry Partner Award recognizes those who exemplify a true commitment to the institution’s mission, “to educate individuals for dynamic and rewarding careers that promote lifetime success and meet the workforce needs of our region.”

Southeast Tech Director of Industry Relations Lon Hird presented the award to Bob Jarding, vice president of Electric Supply Company, calling him a champion for education and an advocate for Southeast Tech.

“Through his leadership of Electric Supply Company and as the Chapter President of the National Electrical Contractors Association (NECA), Bob has played an active role in advocating for the growth of Southeast Tech,” Hird said. “In his role with NECA, he influenced many area electrical contractors to commit financial support that allowed Southeast Tech to launch an Electrician program in the fall of 2015. Because of his collaboration with his fellow industry partners, every student enrolled in the first year of the Electrician program started with a scholarship.

The program remains strong because of the support that Bob started. In addition to Bob’s contributions to the Electrician program, he has also been active as the Southeast Tech Foundation Chairman for the past three years. Through his leadership, the Foundation successfully launched its first-ever capital campaign, and he has continued his advocacy in encouraging other businesses across industry sectors to get involved. Bob was also a key player in launching a pilot Pre-Construction Apprenticeship program.”