It's your world!

Lake Area Technical Institute – Be where your passion is.

Our distinctive technical education will get you into the region’s best careers. At LATI, we work hard to keep our programs cutting-edge and our graduates happy. We want you to love what you do!

Founded in 1965 as the first technical school in South Dakota, LATI now has 27 programs (7 online E-Degrees), 1500+ enrolled students, and a living record of success:

  • Over 16,000 graduates
  • 98% of our graduates are employed or are continuing education
  • 90% of our graduates have stayed to live and work in South Dakota

We promise you: small, interactive classes, new technology, the fun and energy of a growing campus, and SO MUCH MORE!

Mission Statement

Lake Area Technical Institute offers superior, comprehensive technical education, creating a foundation for success in an ever-changing world.

Vision Statement

Lake Area Technical Institute will be the leader in technical education working in partnership with business and industry and all levels of education. Lake Area Tech staff will integrate the latest technology and methods of delivering quality education to meet emerging global workforce demands. Lake Area Tech will continue to develop marketing strategies to promote technical education and will maintain excellence in all programs.

Core Values and General Education

The purpose of LATI General Education is to provide the building blocks for success. Through core general education courses, students gain skills and knowledge for effectiveness in communication, computer, math, and the sciences.

Required general education classes are critical to LATI's core values, known as ROCK:

  • Responsibility
  • Outcomes
  • Communications
  • Knowledge

Quality Standards

View Lake Area Tech's quality standards.