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Building Trades Technology
The Building Trades Technology program at Lake Area Tech prepares you for a career in construction by taking you through the full building process, from initial design to final finish. Over 18 months, you’ll develop the skills needed to work across residential and light commercial construction with confidence.
Training includes residential design, site preparation, concrete work, framing, roofing, ventilation, interior finishing, cabinetry, and building codes. While you’ll cover the fundamentals in the classroom, much of your time is spent on-site, constructing a custom home from start to finish. This hands-on experience builds both technical ability and the kind of real-world confidence employers look for.
You’ll also gain exposure to light commercial construction, project estimation, and emerging practices in green building, along with experience using modern tools like blower door testing. Opportunities to connect with industry professionals through organizations such as the Home Builders Student Chapter, Associated General Contractors of South Dakota, and SkillsUSA help you build leadership skills and expand your network.
Graduates are prepared for careers with contractors, construction companies, maintenance teams, and woodworking or manufacturing operations, with the option to pursue entrepreneurship and run their own business.
As part of the program, students complete residential building projects. Individuals interested in having a home built through the program can contact the Building Trades Technology department for details on the application process, timeline, and project specifications.
If you plan to continue your education, tools like Transferology can help you understand how your coursework applies toward a four-year degree and explore your next steps.
Building Trades House Projects
Lake Area Tech Building Trades students gain valuable hands-on skills through the construction of homes. Persons interested in having the LATC Building Trades program build their residential home may contact Building Trades Technology Program Supervisor Kevin Theisen at 605-882-5284 ext. 299 or email kevin.theisen@lakeareatech.edu to learn more about the bid application process, timeline/deadline, and specifications .
Building Trades Program Learning Outcomes
- Interpret a blueprint.
- Demonstrate carpentry skills to complete a project.
- Identify building codes.
- Follow safety regulations.
- Value participation in industry organizations.
Articulation agreements:
Building Trades Technology Careers
Below are several careers you could pursue with an Building Trades Technology degree. Visit our job board to see job opportunities in the Building Trades Technology sector.
General Contractor / Construction Business Owner
Many graduates use their training and industry experience to pursue careers as General Contractors or Construction Business Owners. In this role, you'll oversee projects, coordinate subcontractors, manage budgets, communicate with clients, and ensure projects are completed safely and efficiently. This career path combines construction expertise with leadership, project management, and entrepreneurship.
Where you might work:
• Independent contracting businesses
• Residential construction companies
• Remodeling and renovation firms
• Property development projects
• Self-owned construction enterprises
Residential Construction Technician
As a Residential Construction Technician, you'll perform a variety of skilled construction tasks that support the building of homes and residential properties. Graduates can expect to work on framing, interior finishes, exterior construction, and project coordination while developing a broad range of trade skills. This role is ideal for individuals who enjoy variety and working on different phases of the construction process.
Where you might work:
• Home construction companies
• Remodeling businesses
• Property development firms
• Residential contractors
• Construction service companies
Construction Carpenter
Graduates of the Building Trades Technology program can pursue careers as Construction Carpenters, helping build, renovate, and repair residential and commercial structures. In this role, you'll work with framing, roofing, siding, finish carpentry, concrete, and other essential construction skills while contributing to projects from start to finish. It's an excellent career path for individuals who enjoy hands-on work and creating something that lasts.
Where you might work:
• Residential construction companies
• Home builders
• Remodeling contractors
• Commercial construction firms
• Construction subcontractors
Degree Pairings
Explore relevant classes and certificates below to see how they can increase hirability post-graduation.
Building Trades Technology+ Uncrewed Aerial Systems (Drones) Certificate
August start only.
There is a fast-growing demand for workers who can operate and maintain uncrewed aircraft systems in our region. The Uncrewed Aerial Systems (Drones) Certificate coursework will equip students with the necessary skills to be employed as uncrewed aerial system operators/pilots and technicians. Graduates will learn the laws and ethical procedures for operating Uncrewed Aerial Systems and will have the knowledge and skills to become a Federal Aviation Administration (FAA) Certificated Remote Pilot (Part 107 Remote Pilot Certificate). Beginning fall 2025, Uncrewed Aerial Systems is an 18-credit, two-semester certificate delivered in a hybrid format with both online and on-campus components.
Every class, every semester. Find the right pathway to achieve your degree on your timing.
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Estimated Cost
At Lake Area Tech, there are no surprises. View expected expenses below, so you can plan ahead for a successful year.
| Tuition | $9,983 |
| State Fees | $3,353 |
| Departmental Fee | $3,772 |
| Campus Support Fee | $2,310 |
| Tools | $2,925 |
| Books | $550 |
| Laptop (What laptop should I get?) | $1,190 |
| Total Estimated Program Cost: | $24,083 |
We know that college is a large financial undertaking, and our main priority is that there are no surprises as you navigate this journey. Our goal is to offer you the most transparent look at potential costs associated with your degree.
Note that other indirect costs, such as housing, food, transportation, personal and other miscellaneous costs will vary for each student’s situation, and are not included in this estimate.
We strive to offer a variety of financial aid options, as well as helpful resources regarding outside financial aid options.
Building Trades Technology FAQs
Get the details you need to decide if this program is the right fit for you.
What can I do with a Building Trades and Construction degree?
A Building Trades and Construction degree from Lake Area Technical College prepares you for a wide range of careers in the construction industry. Graduates commonly work as carpenters, site supervisors, foremen, construction project managers, estimators, building inspectors, facilities or maintenance managers, and general contractors. The degree also provides a strong foundation for students who want to start their own construction or contracting business or advance into leadership roles within the industry.
How does Lake Area Tech’s Building Trades degree prepare students for real-world construction careers?
Lake Area Tech’s Building Trades Technology program is built around real-world, jobsite-based learning. Students construct houses on actual job sites using the same tools, equipment, and processes used by professional construction crews. This immersive approach allows students to gain practical experience in residential construction while learning to work as part of a team, meet deadlines, follow safety standards, and solve on-the-job challenges—just like they will after graduation.
Is hands-on experience included in the Building Trades Technology program?
Yes. Hands-on experience is the foundation of the program. While students receive classroom instruction to learn construction theory and principles, the majority of their training takes place on active job sites. Students spend most of their time building, installing, measuring, and finishing real projects, gaining valuable experience that employers expect.
How long does it take to complete the Building Trades Technology program?
The Building Trades Technology program can be completed in approximately 18 months to 2 years, depending on the course sequence, and leads to an Associate of Applied Science (A.A.S.) degree. The second year builds on the skills learned in the first year and includes advanced construction projects.
What construction skills will I learn in this program?
Students learn all major aspects of residential construction from the ground up, including:
- Concrete work (forming, pouring, finishing, curing)
- Framing and structural carpentry
- Roofing and siding installation
- Window and door installation
- Insulation and drywall installation, taping, and finishing
- Interior and exterior trim work
- Cabinet and countertop installation
- Bathroom vanities and fixtures
- Painting and surface finishing
- Material estimation and job planning
- Stair construction and layout
- Reading plans and using construction math
By graduation, students have experience in every major phase of home construction.
Does Lake Area Tech help graduates find jobs in the construction industry?
Yes. Lake Area Tech has strong industry connections and can assist graduates with job placement when needed. However, most students already have employment lined up before graduation due to the high demand for skilled construction workers and the real-world experience they gain during the program.
Is this Building Trades program good for someone new to construction?
Absolutely. No prior construction experience is required. Students begin by learning the basics—such as how to read a tape measure, safely use tools, and calculate materials—and progress to more advanced skills over time. The program welcomes students of all skill levels and focuses on building confidence, competence, and craftsmanship from day one.
What certifications or credentials can I earn in the Building Trades Technology program?
Graduates earn an Associate of Applied Science (A.A.S.) degree in Building Trades Technology. Students also complete the OSHA 10-hour safety certification and receive CPR certification, both of which are highly valued by construction employers.
What tools and equipment do students train with in this program?
Students train with professional-grade tools and equipment used in the construction industry, including:
- Tape measures, squares, levels, and hand tools
- Cordless drills, impact drivers, hammer drills, and saws
- Circular saws, miter saws, table saws, and reciprocating saws
- Framing, finish, brad, crown, and shingle nailers
- Concrete tools (screeds, hand trowels, power trowels)
- Drywall taping tools, banjos, taping boxes, and texture machines
- Caulk guns, compressors, and jobsite equipment
- Scissor lifts and material-handling equipment
Students bring basic personal hand tools, while the program provides larger and specialty equipment.
Are there opportunities for internships or jobsite experience?
Yes. The Building Trades Technology program partners with the Build Dakota Scholarship Program, providing opportunities for real-world jobsite experience and connections with industry employers. Students gain extensive on-the-job experience throughout the program, making internships and employment a natural extension of their training.
Building Trades Technology Staff
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