National Security for the Next Generation

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National Security for the Next Generation

By: Gov. Larry Rhoden
June 19, 2026

Engaging with the next generation keeps me focused on what's important: South Dakota's future. Recently, Sandy and I hosted all of the state government interns for a picnic. This is an annual summer tradition at the Governor's Residence, and it's a pretty special one. I love hearing all of their dreams for their future careers, and I'm glad that internships in state government can help turn those dreams into reality!

To make that happen, we need cutting-edge jobs. Our defense industry is key to setting our state and nation up for long-term success, especially when it comes to career opportunities for the next generation. This week, I helped break ground on another expansion for our "next big industry." It amazes me the number of small towns in South Dakota that are having a big national impact in the defense industry. This time, we were in Clear Lake at Tech Ord.

Tech Ord has called South Dakota home since the 1960s. They have over six decades of success strengthening our nation's defense, and they continue to thrive here in South Dakota. When their parent company was looking for a place to expand, they chose our state. This means more good paying jobs in a rural community!

I announced that national security is South Dakota's next big industry earlier this year because I believe in businesses like Tech Ord and small towns like Clear Lake. And I have followed through to make that a reality for our state. At the time of the announcement, I recognized MMS Products, a Sioux Falls-based company that is leading the field for innovation of drone munitions. I said then that their expansion announcement wouldn't be the last one we make - and we've backed that promise up with results!

These new and growing businesses are creating careers and opportunities for young South Dakotans. As Governor, I care about delivering a strong economy with robust career opportunities for our kids and grandkids. Our state is a leader in America's national security, and I want it to continue to remain a leader for my nine (soon-to-be 10) grandchildren and their families. I want all our kids and grandkids to inherit a state - and a nation - that is strong, safe, and free.

To ensure that future is secured, I stood up the GRIT taskforce - who also met in the past few days. This group has provided a way for us to protect our infrastructure and prepare for threats and disasters. Our state is only as strong as our resilience and grit, and for as long as I am Governor, enhancing that grit will be a top priority.

I also announced the creation of the South Dakota Defense Institute earlier this year. We are getting close to fully operationalizing this hub for national defense, and the excitement building is palpable. Our small state can move at an incredible pace and develop an idea into reality. We have the suppliers, the manufacturers, the researchers, the workforce, and the leaders. The Defense Institute will guide more direction, more growth, and more innovation. The defense industry is looking for partners who can deliver, and South Dakota is that partner.

When it comes to making national security our next big industry, speed matters. Responsiveness matters. Coordination matters.

Results matter.

As long as I am Governor, I will continue to deliver results that lead to a stronger future for our state and for the next generation of South Dakotans.

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