Communication is the key to success for South Dakota's four technical schools and the areas they serve, according to Gov. Mike Rounds.

In the case of Lake Area Technical Institute in Watertown, communication between businesses and local residents saying how they think the school should improve will help make sure that students graduate more prepared for the challenges ahead, Rounds said at a luncheon this past week.

"(Students) all help. Not only in the region and community but statewide," he said.

Rounds' audience was a group of area leaders and educators. He told them Lake Area's ability to provide special training helps companies succeed. It allows businesses that need that meet more specific requirements locate in Watertown, he said.

"LATI is a huge factor in these companies successes," Rounds said.

The governor said many students who graduate from a technical college or four-year college stay in the town or area from which they graduate.