DICKINSON (AP) - Educators across North Dakota learned more about how what they teach applies outside of the classroom, during a recent four-day "externship."

"I learned that the big push is not just that there are not enough employees, but there is (also) a great need for quality employees," said Kim Murphy, an agricultural instructor in Belfield.

Murphy and other secondary and post-secondary educators visited manufacturing plants and businesses across the state to learn more about how businesses use math, science and communication skills in various occupations.

The externship program - "Rediscover Southwest North Dakota" - is in its fifth year. It is sponsored by the North Dakota Tech Prep Southwest Region offices at Bismarck State College. Graduate credit is awarded through the University of North Dakota.

Murphy hopes to incorporate what she learned through the program into her classroom.

"It's important to tell students it's not just about getting the job, it's about getting the job to do it well," she said.

Dianne Strange, career and technology education instructor at Bismarck Century High School, said the week helped her understand how the manufacturing world works.

"All the different entities work together to make the manufacturing world profitable," Strange said. "I work one-on-one with students, and will bring back to them the things employers look for as far as having a student who is prepared and employable."

John Abrahamson, a Dickinson High School English teacher, said the program helped him get an understanding of the businesses in Dickinson, and what jobs were available for his students.

"I learned that all skills are important at any company," he said. "Not just math skills, but you need communications skills as well. All technology skills are important."

The group visited companies such as Cross Country Courier, The Medora Foundation, Steffes Corp., Dakota Carrier Network and Tesoro Petroleum.

Donna Fricke, who works with businesses and educators to build partnerships for the externship, said an oil rig was a new component this year.

"To see one and find out what they do is great," she said. "I try to join the group at different points to see what I can."

Fricke also talks with students about preparing themselves for a variety of career opportunities available in southwestern North Dakota.

"It makes me more credible when I can share with them that I've been to these places," she said. "By going along on different tours, I also get to know the teachers in the region."