Lake Area Technical Institute
About Lake Area Technical Institute
Lake Area Technical Institute is an institution in Watertown, South Dakota with aviation-related degree programs.
Lake Area Technical College is a public community college in Watertown, South Dakota. The campus covers 40 acres and serves an area of 18,000 square miles. Founded in 1965, Lake Area Tech was the first technical school to be established in South Dakota, followed by schools in Mitchell, Sioux Falls and Rapid City. Lake Area Tech is accredited by the Higher Learning Commission.
Aviation programs offered
Degrees awarded
Program areas
- Aircraft Maintenance (A&P)
Prepares you for the FAA Airframe & Powerplant (A&P) mechanic certificate — inspecting, repairing, and maintaining aircraft and engines.
- Professional Pilot
Flight-training degree toward commercial pilot certificates and ratings (private → instrument → commercial, often CFI) — building the hours and skills for an airline or charter career.
- Unmanned Aircraft Systems (Drones)
Operations and applications of unmanned aircraft (drones) — FAA Part 107 and beyond, for mapping, inspection, agriculture, and public safety.