Build Dakota & Stretch-the-Million Partner Program
The Stretch-the-Million (STM) initiative allows industry partners to invest in South Dakota’s future workforce through the Build Dakota Scholarship program. By partnering with Lake Area Technical College, businesses can help students gain a full-ride education — while securing skilled talent for their industry.
How It Works
- The STM Partner (aka the company) pays half of the student’s full-ride scholarship, which includes tuition, fees, books, laptops, tools, and other items required by the program.
- The student commits to:
- Complete a qualifying program at Lake Area Tech
- Work full-time for the STM Partner (aka company) in the approved field for at least 3 years within South Dakota.
It’s a shared investment with long-term returns — for students, businesses and the state.
Student Benefits
- 100% tuition-free education
- Guaranteed employment after graduation
- Potential for on-the-job training during their program
Business Benefits
- Upskill current employees or sponsor new talent
- Secure a pipeline of job-ready graduates from Lake Area Tech
- Gain a committed, skilled employee for minimum of three years
- Receive promotional exposure on Build Dakota and Lake Area Tech websites
Impact on South Dakota
- Fills critical workforce gaps in high-need industries
- Keeps skilled professionals living and working in South Dakota
- Fuels the growth of local businesses and communities
Become an STM Partner
Contact us to learn more about how your business can participate: Foundation@lakeareatech.edu
Brittany Rost, Foundation Scholarship Coordinator
605-882-5284 Ext. 292
Melissa Waldner, Business Partner Specialist
1-605-882-5284 Ext. 263
Jessi Eidson, Development & Alumni Coordinator
605-882-5284 Ext. 308
Tracy (Hlavacek) Buisker, Foundation Director
605-882-5284 Ext. 268
Resources & Tips
Build Dakota/STM Partners
Fousek Truck Service – Gettysburg, SD
Stewart Construction – Watertown, SD
