Lake Area Technical College Sets All-Time Enrollment Record as Watertown School Expands South Dakota Workforce Pipeline
Northeast Radio SD News – Watertown, SD - Lake Area Technical College is celebrating another milestone this fall, reporting its highest enrollment in school history as the institution continues expanding the number of skilled graduates entering South Dakota’s workforce.
LATC’s Fall 2026 headcount reached 2,387 students, an increase of nearly 3% over last year and the college’s third record‑setting fall in five years. Growth occurred among both degree‑seeking students and dual‑credit high school students.
President Tiffany Sanderson said the college’s mission goes beyond enrollment totals.
“Our goal isn’t simply to enroll more students here. Our goal is to help more students successfully complete a credential that gives them the knowledge, skills, and connections they can use to build the future they want,” Sanderson said.
That focus is showing results. LATC’s most recent graduating class totaled 849 students, a 6.8% increase from the previous year.
Students say the college’s hands‑on approach and strong industry ties are key factors. Dental Hygiene student Cori Birkel of De Smet said LATC’s track record made her confident in continuing her education there. Precision Machining freshman Ethan Rearick of Wolsey, a Build Dakota Scholar, said he chose LATC for its...
“world‑class machining program.”
LATC highlights several indicators of value for students and families:
· 99% placement rate within six months of graduation
· 83% of employed graduates stay in South Dakota
· Average starting salary: $57,013
· More than 30 programs across healthcare, agriculture, manufacturing, transportation, aviation, IT, public safety, and business
The Fall 2026 student body includes learners from 17 states and Canadian provinces and 64 of South Dakota’s 66 counties.
Founded in 1965, Lake Area Technical College is a past recipient of the Aspen Prize for Community College Excellence, recognizing it as the top two‑year college in the nation.
More information is available at lakeareatech.edu.
