Message from the Chair

As we talk about how higher education is innovating to meet workforce needs in Sioux Falls, I believe there is an even deeper question for all of us to consider: How are we developing leaders for the future?

This question matters because the future of our city will not be shaped only by the jobs we fill, but by the people we choose to invest in.

This is one of the conversations I regularly have with organizations across our community. We often ask leaders to identify the traits they want most in the people helping move their organizations forward. The answers come quickly: adaptability, emotional intelligence, communication, accountability, collaboration, vision and resilience.

Then we ask a second question: What are you intentionally doing to grow those qualities in your people? That is where the conversation often slows down.

The conversation slows not because leaders do not care, but because many of us feel the weight of how fast the workplace is changing. The truth is, leadership development can no longer be left to chance. If we want stronger organizations tomorrow, we have to be intentional about growing stronger people today.

Higher education plays a vital role in this work. Our colleges, universities and technical institutions are essential partners in preparing students with the skills and experiences they need to step into the workforce. But this responsibility does not belong to education alone. As employers and community leaders, we also have to ask whether we are building cultures where people can grow, feel valued and know they matter.

That question becomes even more important when average tenure among 25- to 34-year-olds is around 2.8 years. That should challenge us, not with frustration, but with vision. Are we creating workplaces where the next generation can see a future? Are we giving them reasons to stay, contribute and lead?

Part of leading in this moment means being willing to evolve ourselves. It means rethinking how we mentor, communicate, create ownership and build cultures of trust. The workplace of the future will need more than capable workers. It will need courageous, healthy and people-centered leaders.

The encouraging part is this: Sioux Falls is full of people who care deeply about the future of this city. We have strong educational partners, innovative businesses and a community spirit that believes in possibility. That gives me real hope.

If we want to meet the workforce needs ahead, we must move beyond simply filling positions. We must commit to cultivating people. If we do that well, we will not only strengthen our organizations, but also help build a Sioux Falls where the next generation is ready to lead with confidence, character and purpose.