WATERTOWN, S.D. (Mitchell Now) – Lake Area Technical College is reminding students and parents that applications are open for the Build Dakota Scholarship program, with a deadline of March 31, 2026.

Established in 2015, the Build Dakota Scholarship provides full-ride awards to qualifying students attending South Dakota’s technical colleges and enrolling in high-demand career fields. The scholarship covers tuition and fees, books, and program-related items such as tools, equipment and laptops.

Lake Area Technical College Foundation Executive Director Tracy Buisker said many Build Dakota scholars are paired with industry partners who commit to hiring the student after graduation.

“This is a unique opportunity for students to attend college and enter the workforce debt-free,” Buisker said. “The program is open to both in-state and out-of-state students who commit to working in South Dakota for three years following graduation. It can truly be life-changing.”

To be eligible, students must be U.S. citizens, be enrolled full time in a qualifying Lake Area Technical College program and complete the Free Application for Federal Student Aid, commonly known as FAFSA. Scholarship recipients must commit to working in South Dakota for three years following graduation. A list of qualifying programs is available at lakeareatech.edu.

“We encourage students from all income levels to apply,” Buisker said. “In addition to Build Dakota, the Lake Area Technical College Foundation has a number of other scholarship opportunities. I would encourage all students to visit with us and explore their options.”