June 26, 2008
CDOT AND TRINIDAD STATE JUNIOR COLLEGE PARTNERSHIP
LAS ANIMAS COUNTY— Today, Colorado Governor Bill Ritter joined Trinidad State Junior College (TSJC) President Ruth Ann Woods and Colorado Department of Transportation (CDOT) Executive Director Russ George to celebrate a new state agency partnership. CDOT and TSJC have joined together to assist in the sustainability of the College’s EPIC (Energy Production and Industrial Construction) Program, designed to prepare students to enter employment in fields related to the gas and oil industry.
“This type of partnership is positive for all of Colorado,” said Governor Ritter. “The benefits of allowing for this hands-on training and education will only result in new opportunities and an improved future work force in the construction industry.”
CDOT Chief Engineer Pam Hutton added, “What we gain by this program over the long run will be worth far more than we would have received selling this old equipment for a small sum at auction. This program is really a win-win for all.”
Next month, CDOT will donate 10 pieces of heavy equipment to TSJC including two front-end loaders, four motor graders, three single-axle dump trucks and one trailer. This equipment will provide an opportunity for students to gain experience and training not only on rebuilding and refurbishing equipment but also on the operation of it. The aging equipment was due to be replaced and is unusable in its current condition.
Students enrolling in the EPIC Program will have the option of a nine-month certificate or two-year Associate of Applied Science degree. The program includes training in diesel/heavy equipment, welding and heavy equipment operation.
“Financial support from the local gas and oil industry in Las Animas County allowed Trinidad State to apply for and receive a $1.5 million Community Based Jobs Training Grant in 2006,” said President Ruth Ann Woods. “The program opened its first year with 50 students and 122 students in the fall of 2007. This year the grant will complete its third year. The sustainability of the EPIC program is imperative to continue job training in the areas of welding, heavy equipment operation, and diesel mechanics. TSJC is most appreciative and excited about the establishment of yet another new partnership that will greatly assist in the sustainability of such a distinctive workforce training program – EPIC.”
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