Maguire University Invests in People, Careers and the Future of the Water Industry
August 12, 2026
The Maguire Podcast: 65: Water Collaborative Delivery
September 30, 2026Maguire University Invests in People, Careers and the Future of the Water Industry
August 12, 2026The Maguire Podcast: 65: Water Collaborative Delivery
September 30, 2026
South Dakota Governor Larry Rhoden visited Maguire this week, touring the company’s Sioux Falls headquarters to learn firsthand how the South Dakota-based organization helps communities across the country maintain one of their most critical assets: safe and reliable water infrastructure.
During the visit, Governor Rhoden emphasized the importance of workforce development, technical education, infrastructure investment, and manufacturing as key components of South Dakota’s continued economic success.
“What struck me going through this is how far we’ve come in South Dakota as far as our attitude toward the workforce,” Rhoden said. “Twenty years ago, we had this model that every student was going to get a four-year degree. That’s changed a lot in recent years, and I think we’ve struck a pretty good balance between our regional system and our technical schools.”
The governor noted that demand for skilled trades continues to create exceptional career opportunities for young people throughout the state.
“Check it out,” Rhoden said when asked what advice he would give students considering careers in manufacturing and construction. “Don’t wait for doors to open to you. Check the doors and see if they’re locked. Try different things. Welders can make a tremendous living right now in South Dakota, and there’s a lot of opportunity. We see kids coming out of those tech schools that literally 100 percent of them have found employment within weeks of leaving.”
Maguire specializes in the construction and maintenance of water tanks and towers that serve communities throughout the United States. The company employs a highly skilled workforce that includes welders, painters, inspectors, engineers, project managers, and construction professionals.
Governor Rhoden said companies like Maguire play an important role in diversifying South Dakota’s economy beyond its traditional agricultural roots.
“South Dakota was built on agriculture, and I think it always will be our number one industry,” Rhoden said. “But to me, that only exemplifies the fact that we need to diversify our economy. Businesses like this are the way that we do that in South Dakota. Businesses like this are a key component in the future of South Dakota.”
For many South Dakotans, water towers are a familiar sight on the horizon, but few understand how essential they are to communities, public safety, and economic development. After touring Maguire, Rhoden said he gained a deeper appreciation for the role water infrastructure plays in supporting growth.
“Every time you see a water tower, it should remind you that’s development in our state and that’s critical infrastructure for our state,” he said. “Water utilities are a key component in protecting our infrastructure and making sure that our economy continues to thrive.”
The governor also praised South Dakota’s approach to infrastructure funding, noting that the state has prioritized long-term investments that support future growth.
“In South Dakota, we’ve invested in infrastructure and one-time projects to help build our infrastructure,” Rhoden said. “We invested nearly a billion dollars in water projects in South Dakota. Water projects were our primary funding priority, and it was a wise decision because it gave us more funding opportunities in the following years.”
For Maguire leadership, the governor’s visit highlighted the often-overlooked connection between infrastructure, economic development, and workforce opportunities.
“Our team takes tremendous pride in the fact that the work we do every day impacts communities across the country,” said Gene Jones Jr., CEO of Maguire. “Water infrastructure is something people depend on every single day, but it often goes unnoticed until it isn’t there. We are honored to call South Dakota home and to build careers that allow our employees to support families, contribute to local communities and participate in projects that improve lives nationwide.”
Jones said the company has continued to invest in technology, workforce development and operational excellence while maintaining its commitment to South Dakota.
“We believe South Dakota produces some of the hardest-working and most innovative people in the country,” he said. “The Governor’s visit reinforces the importance of investing in skilled trades, technical education, and infrastructure, all of which are critical to the future of our company and our state.”
Maguire President Scott Jones said the company’s success reflects the talent and work ethic found throughout South Dakota.
“Every water tower we build, inspect, or maintain represents more than a structure,” Jones said. “It represents economic development, public health, fire protection and the future growth of a community. The work our crews perform helps ensure that cities and rural communities alike have reliable infrastructure for decades to come.”
Jones added that the company’s impact extends far beyond construction.
“When communities invest in water infrastructure, they’re creating opportunities for housing, business expansion, and future economic growth. That’s why infrastructure projects are so important. They create a ripple effect that strengthens entire regions.”
As South Dakota continues to invest in workforce development and critical infrastructure, Governor Rhoden sees businesses like Maguire as an important part of the state’s future.
“I’ve done a lot of tours, and I’m always amazed at what’s going on right under my nose here in South Dakota,” Rhoden said. “The potential for future growth and a stable economy for decades to come is incredible.”
As communities across America continue to invest in their future, Maguire remains committed to delivering the infrastructure, expertise, and workforce that help make growth possible. Learn more about Maguire and its impact at MaguireWater.com.
