Workforce Scholarships

Workforce Scholarships connect students and employers early, before graduation.

Through this program, a company helps cover a portion, or all, of a student’s tuition and fees. In return, the student commits to working for that company after graduation for an agreed period of time.

It’s a straightforward exchange: support now, opportunity later.

How It Works

Each partnership is defined in advance between the student and the sponsoring company.

• The company provides funding toward tuition and fees
• The student commits to employment after graduation
• Terms, including length of employment, are outlined in a formal agreement

Companies may also:

• Participate in the admissions and selection process
• Interview candidates and provide facility tours
• Offer paid internships during the program

All programs at Lake Area Tech are eligible, and companies can participate from in-state or out-of-state. Students may also work outside South Dakota after graduation.

Note: Workforce Scholarships are separate from the Build Dakota Scholarship program.

Student Responsibilities

Students who participate must:

• Meet program admission and enrollment requirements
• Maintain a minimum 2.5 GPA
• Meet attendance expectations
• Complete a paid internship, if required
• Pass background checks or screenings, if required by the employer
• Fulfill the agreed-upon employment commitment after graduation

If the agreement is completed, funds are forgiven. If not, the student may be required to repay the company.

What Companies Gain

• Early access to potential hires
• Input in selecting candidates
• A trained, job-ready employee after graduation
• Opportunities to engage with students through internships and interviews

Program Administration

The Lake Area Tech Foundation manages the program, including:

• Processing and applying scholarship funds
• Coordinating communication between students and employers
• Maintaining documentation and compliance
• Supporting interviews, tours, and onboarding
• Managing reporting and, if necessary, default notifications

More Information

Companies interested in participating or learning more should contact the Lake Area Tech Foundation.