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Essential Skills Certificate
Overview
The DLR Essential Skills Certificate strengthens South Dakota's workforce by helping job seekers stand out with verified, high-value professional skills while enabling employers to confidently build stronger teams and close critical skill gaps.
Developed in response to feedback from the 2025 Employer Survey, this state-approved curriculum targets core skills like work ethic, reliability, critical thinking, and communication.
By the Numbers
- Of employers surveyed, 49% cited skills gaps in work ethic, reliability, critical thinking, and communication among new hires.
- About 7 in 10 entry-level jobs do not require education beyond high school. For these positions, employers focus on core workplace skills.
Source: 2025 Employer Survey Report, South Dakota Department of Labor and Regulation.
Why It Matters to Job Seekers
- Stand Out to Employers: Shows hiring teams you have verified, in-demand workplace skills and can meet employers’ expectations.
- Direct Path to Work: Helps build the foundational and customer service skills employers want.
- Build Confidence: Helps you feel ready on day one to handle daily tasks, communicate with coworkers, and build a lasting career.
Why It Matters to Employers
- Closes Skills Gaps: Focuses directly on workplace skills employers say new hires lack, improving employee performance and workplace culture.
- Efficient Recruitment: Serves as a clear, reliable way to identify job-ready candidates faster.
- Workforce Development: Provides a tool for upskilling current staff and boosting retention.
How to Get Started
- Eligibility: Open to individuals registered in SDWORKS or enrolled in PowerWorkforce.
- Complete the Curriculum: After each course, email the proof of completion to DLREmploymentPrograms@state.sd.us. Keep proof of completion for each course.
- Request Your Certificate: Once you've completed your last required course, email DLREmploymentPrograms@state.sd.us. Make sure to include:
- Proof you completed your final course,
- Your full legal name, and
- A request for your certificate.
Questions?
If you are working with an employment specialist, you can reach out to them directly or email us DLREmploymentPrograms@state.sd.us.