Lake Area Tech Celebrates 60 Years of Technical Education and Regional Growth

Northeast Radio SD News - Watertown, SD - Lake Area Technical College (LATC) is concluding a year of celebration, marking six decades of technical education and workforce development in South Dakota. Founded in 1965 as the state’s first technical college, the institution utilized 2025 to reflect on its legacy while reporting record-breaking momentum for the decade ahead.

From its inaugural class of 15 graduates in 1966, the college has grown into a nationally recognized institution with an alumni base of more than 26,000. Today, Lake Area Tech serves nearly 2,700 students across more than 30 high-demand programs, maintaining a placement rate that consistently exceeds 99 percent.

A Legacy of Partnership

In a year-end statement, Lake Area Tech President Tiffany Sanderson emphasized that the college's success is a direct result of regional collaboration. Sanderson credited local communities, small towns, and industry partners for providing the guidance and resources necessary to keep programs responsive to the modern economy.

“Our story is inseparable from the communities across the state that believe in opportunity,” Sanderson stated. “By offering guidance, internships, equipment, and, most importantly, meaningful careers, these partners help ensure that Lake Area Tech graduates are in high demand.”

Historic Growth and Future Outlook

The 60th anniversary coincides with a period of historic expansion for the campus. Following the opening of the Ace A. Brandt Diesel Center in late 2023, the college has continued to see enrollment climb. Current projections suggest this growth will persist over the next 10 years, driven by high demand for skilled professionals and students’ preference for “hands-on learning that returns high value in short order.”

To celebrate the milestone throughout the year, the college engaged in several community-focused initiatives, including a “60th Anniversary Tailgate Tour” that visited high school football games across the region, awarding scholarships and connecting with local families.

Looking Forward

As the college enters its 61st year, leadership remains focused on long-term infrastructure and innovation. The school is currently operating under a master campus plan for 2035, which includes developing a public safety training center and a construction trades center to meet evolving workforce needs.

“Thank you for 60 great years,” Sanderson concluded. “And here’s to the next 60, built together, with optimism and a shared commitment to our future.”