Eligible Programs

The Perks of a Technical Career

A steady job, great salary, fulfilling work—it doesn’t take a master’s degree. Or a four-year degree. You can accomplish all this and more as a technical college graduate.

The South Dakota workforce is growing, especially in specialized industries. Technical programs are fast, affordable, flexible, and they prepare you for a high-demand position.

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High Demand. High Pay.

Build Dakota Scholars will have the opportunity to secure employment for key industry partners prior to graduation. And they can expect to earn salaries similar to these.

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Program Options

Find Your Future

These high-need fields of study have been approved for the 2024-2025 Build Dakota Scholarship Program.

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Agriculture

A degree in agriculture can take you just about anywhere in the industry. You can work inside or outside doing anything from teaching and research to working with animals.

Automotive

For people who enjoy cars, working with their hands and solving problems, a career as an automotive technician can really drive your future.

Building Trades / Construction

A degree or certification in the construction trades can lead to employment as a construction manager, cost estimator or building inspector.

Energy Technicians

Careers waiting for you include renewable energy technician, wind turbine installer, solar electricity system installer and more.

Engineering Technicians

Engineering technicians can work in several specialized areas, including electrical and electronics engineering or civil engineering.

Healthcare / Public Service

Technical colleges offer a variety of healthcare and public service-related programs including Nursing, Paramedics, Law Enforcement Science and Radiology Technicians.

Information Technology / Computer Information Systems

Focus on utilizing technology to help businesses run as efficiently as possible.

Precision Manufacturing

Precision machinists may work in the computer, automotive, agriculture or other industries—including manufacturing plants, machine shops and inspection organizations.

Welding

Welders specialize in fabricating products by joining together materials like steel, brass and aluminum. Welding skills can be applied to manufacturing, construction, creative arts and more.