Build Dakota Scholarship
The Build Dakota Scholarship Fund was created in 2015 by visionary South Dakota lawmakers and industry leaders to tackle the state’s workforce challenges. 糖心传媒 is proud to administer this program, helping students train for high-demand careers and enter the workforce debt-free.
How It Works
Build Dakota scholars receive a full-ride scholarship, including:
- Tuition & Fees
- Books
- Items required by the program of study (such as: tools,/equipment, laptop)
Accepting a Build Dakota Scholarship means the student will:
- Enroll full-time in a qualifying program at Lake Area Tech.
- Work full-time in the approved field for at least 3 years in South Dakota upon graduation (with degree) – Most LATC scholars are sponsored through a Stretch-the-Million (STM) industry partner. These students fulfill their work commitment with their sponsor.
No student debt. Job-ready skills. A future in South Dakota.
Eligibility
Build Dakota is open to:
- In-state and out-of-state students
- Students of all ages
Applicants must:
- Be a U.S. citizen or national (per federal financial aid regulations)
- Submit the FAFSA (Free Application for Federal Student Aid)
- Demonstrate aptitude, such as:
- Internships or other relevant work-based learning experiences
- Technical, dual, or concurrent credit courses taken in the career-interest area
- NCRC (National Career Readiness Certificate) or another industry-recognized credential.
How to Apply
- Application Window: January 1 – March 31
- Incoming students must be accepted into an eligible program to receive login credentials to access the scholarship application
- Apply through Lake Area Tech’s online Foundation Scholarship Application
- Submit the FAFSA form (Free Application for Federal Student Aid)
Note: Build Dakota scholars are generally not eligible for additional Foundation scholarships; however, exceptions may be made if no other qualified applicants are available.
Ready, Set, GO! Build Dakota Day
Tips & Resources
Build Dakota Eligible Programs at Lake Area Tech (2026-27)
- Agriculture 鈥 Agri-Production Option
- Agriculture 鈥 Precision Technology Option
- Auto Body & Paint Technology
- Automotive Technology
- Building Trades Technology
- Computer Information Systems*
- Dental Assisting*
- Dental Hygiene
- Diesel Technology 鈥 Ag/Industrial Option
- Diesel Technology 鈥 Truck Option
- Electronic Systems Technology*
- Energy Operations
- Energy Technology
- Heavy Equipment Operator
- Law Enforcement*
- Med/Fire Rescue
- Med/Fire Rescue 鈥 Paramedic*
- Medical Assisting
- Medical Lab Technician*
- Natural Resources Management
- Practical Nursing*
- Precision Machining*
- Registered Nursing*
- Robotics*
- Surgical Technology
- Welding
(*)Online E-Degrees available in these programs
Build Dakota Cohort 11 Recipients
Congratulations to the 2025-26 Scholars!
More Information/Questions
Contact the Build Dakota/Foundation Team at:
Brittany Rost, Foundation Scholarship Coordinator
605-882-5284 Ext. 292
Melissa Waldner, Business Partner Specialist
1-605-882-5284 Ext. 263
Jessi Eidson, Development & Alumni Coordinator
605-882-5284 Ext. 308
Tracy (Hlavacek) Buisker, Foundation Director
605-882-5284 Ext. 268