Lake Area Tech College Sets First-Year/Freshman Student Enrollment Record

For Immediate Release
September 13, 2021

WATERTOWN, SD – Lake Area Technical College’s first-year (freshmen) student enrollment surpassed the 1,000 mark this semester with 1,005 new students seeking degrees, an increase of 8.1% compared to the 2020 fall semester. Total student enrollment for fall semester 2021 at Lake Area Tech is 2,190.

Increase of students in programs is evident across campus, however, the most significant growth came from Diesel Technology, Healthcare, and Energy Technology.  The Lake Area Technical College enrollment upsurge reflects the colleges’ commitment to business and industry to provide a skilled workforce for this region in these areas of study.  

With the growth of the current student body, the current campus expansion plan is in full motion to address additional space needs for labs and classrooms.  Lake Area Tech College is launching a $40M I’m In Capital Campaign that has already funded the Prairie Lakes Healthcare Center of Learning and The Lab. Future building expansion includes a Diesel Technology addition, Business and Advanced Manufacturing Center, and a connecting archway. These buildings are currently in the design phase. Additionally, Custom Paint and Fabrication and an Aviation Center for Aviation Maintenance, Professional Fixed-Wing Pilot and UAS programs are part of the future expansion projects.  

Lake Area Tech’s accomplishments tell the story, including a 99% placement rate after graduation, the creative delivery of education, strong industry partnerships, robust retention, and high-demand degrees.  Lake Area Tech was named the 2017 recipient of the National Aspen Prize for Community College Excellence, which recognizes the outstanding learning outcomes, retention, degree completion, employment and earnings, and success for minority and low-income students.

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