Ever considered how a humble research farm could transform into a hub for technical education? That’s exactly the story of Dakota Co Tech College. Today we will explore the history and impact of Dakota Co Tech College.
Dakota Co Tech College started its journey in 1970. It welcomed 50 students into three programs. The college’s original location was a University of Minnesota research farm.
In 1973, Dakota Co Tech College inaugurated its 185000 square foot main building. It then offered 30 academic programs to nearly 700 students. Dakota Co Tech College grew quickly.
Dakota Co Tech College is a public technical college in Rosemount Minnesota. It is located in Dakota County within the Minneapolis St. Paul metropolitan area. Dakota Co Tech College is part of the Minnesota State Colleges and Universities System. It is one of five stand alone technical colleges in the state.
The Minnesota State Colleges and Universities System Board of Trustees governs Dakota Co Tech College. In 2011, the college received a 10 year re accreditation. This came without conditions from the North Central Association of Colleges and Schools Commission on Institutions of Higher Education.
David L Schroeder was Dakota Co Tech College’s first president. He served from 1970 to 1999. Ronald E Thomas Ph.D. followed from 1999 to 2013. Tim Wynes J.D. then led from 2013 to 2018. Michael Berndt became interim president in 2018. He was confirmed as permanent president in March 2020.
The main campus of Dakota Co Tech College sits on the outskirts of Rosemount. Rosemount is a city about 14 miles south of St. Paul. The campus houses most of the college’s instructional programs. These programs are divided into seven academic departments. Dakota Co Tech College is undertaking a prairie grass and wildflower restoration project. Faculty and students in the Landscape Horticulture program design and maintain this 22 acre area.
Dakota Co Tech College also has programs in other locations. Ten business and management programs are delivered in Apple Valley. IT courses are taught at the IT Training Center in Eagan.
Dakota Co Tech College offers a wide array of programs. There are 46 instructional programs in eight academic departments. These include Administrative Support, Business, and Construction and Manufacturing. Health and Education, Marketing and Sales and STEM Careers are also included. Transportation, Visual Arts and Communication, and General Education are other departments.
Dakota Co Tech College awards certificates, diplomas, A.S. degrees, and A.A.S. degrees. The General Education department offers various courses. These include individualized studies and developmental education.
Dakota Co Tech College partners with over 100 businesses. They offer customized continuing education in many areas. Typically, over 6000 students enroll in these programs each year.
In 2008, Dakota Co Tech College received a 3 million dollar grant. This was from the National Science Foundation. It was to develop the Midwest Regional Center for Nanotechnology Education. This center is known as Nano Link. Deb Newberry leads Nano Link. It supports nanotechnology education and research in a five state region.
Sports programs at Dakota Co Tech College include soccer, softball, and baseball. Men’s basketball and volleyball are also offered.
Dakota Co Tech College offers a vibrant campus life. Student organizations and clubs are active. The Student Senate manages a budget for activities and scholarships. The Multicultural Student Leadership Organization and the Campus Lions Club are involved. Phi Theta Kappa and SkillsUSA are also active.
Dakota Co Tech College continues to evolve. It provides real education with real results. The journey from a research farm to a technical college is a testament to its commitment.