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ITD provides tools — two dump trucks — for hands-on learning

It’s often called "repurposing,” converting something of diminishing or no value into a new, productive use.

ITD has a history of “repurposing” or breathing new life into surplus equipment, usually computers and technology. The practice expanded recently when District 1 completed the transfer of two vehicles to the Kootenai Technical Education Campus in Rathdrum.

“Considering that KTEC will be utilizing the vehicles for educational purposes and the vehicles requested are both in need of repairs, ITD will be granting your request for the donation of the vehicles to your program,” announced Steve Spoor, ITD’s maintenance services manager.

ITD agreed to donate two one-ton trucks – a 2004 dump truck and a 1991 International six-wheel dump truck/snowplow. Both had reached the end of their life-cycle and were inoperable, Spoor explained.

KTEC is a “hybrid” high school that provides alternative courses in technology. The educational partnership includes area school districts, business and industry and local manufacturers. It offers dual enrollment credits and industrial certifications.

Technical programs include automotive technology, computer repair and networking, construction trades and diesel technology, among others.

The two-year automotive technology program is designed for students who intend to enter the automotive repair field as a trained technician. It is based on nationally recognized industry standards.

ITD’s vehicle donations provide students opportunities for hands-on diagnostics and repairs in a live-class environment.

“We were happy to make the vehicles available for educational purposes,” Spoor said. “Technical programs like those KTEC delivers help ensure we have the skilled, trained workforce to service vehicles in the future.”