POCATELLO — Idaho State University’s College of Technology Diesel and On-Site Power Generation program recently received a major boost to its hands-on curriculum thanks to a generous donation from industry partner Kiewit Corporation.

On Sept. 17, students, faculty and industry representatives gathered for a ribbon-cutting ceremony unveiling an out-of-commission skid steer donated by Kiewit. The machine will provide diesel students with valuable opportunities to train on the same type of equipment they will encounter in the workforce.

“It's great to have industry partners that are altruistic in nature and have a desire to help the learning process by donating equipment,” said the Director of Trade and Industry for the College of Technology, Dave Treasure. “These machines are expensive, so donations like this are vital to progressive training that will be valid and applicable to what is used in the field.”

The Diesel and On-Site Power Generation program prepares students to service, maintain and repair diesel equipment used in farming, construction and transportation. Students learn to operate specialized tools and equipment while building the skills needed to launch into high-demand careers across multiple industries.

This donation gives students the chance to practice on equipment actively used in the industry, creating stronger foundational knowledge and practical skills.“It's important for students to learn on the type of equipment that's donated because that's what they’ll see in the field — almost the exact make, model, shape and size,” Treasure explained. “It's good exercise to work on equipment that needs repair."

Beyond building familiarity, the skid steer also presents students with authentic challenges that go beyond what simulations or classroom boards can replicate. Since the machine requires service, students are tasked with diagnosing and repairing issues in real time — developing the problem-solving skills and confidence they will need on the job. Kiewit’s donation not only fills an important equipment gap but also enriches the program with industry-relevant training that directly prepares students for future employment.

“It’s definitely a lot different working on the actual machine compared to our boards in the classroom,” said Hayden Folk, a student in the Diesel and On-Site Power Generation program. “In class, we get the electrical knowledge first, which is really helpful, but applying it to a real piece of equipment is more of a challenge. So with this, we are getting the real-world experience, which definitely helps us prepare for more of the real struggles we’ll face.”

This intentional investment from industry underscores the strength of the Diesel and On-Site Power Generation program and the high standards upheld by its instructors. With demand for diesel technicians and on-site power specialists continuing to grow, the partnership provides students with critical support, hands-on training and career-shaping opportunities that prepare them to succeed in the workforce.

“We are extremely selective about the colleges and universities we partner with,” said the Vice President of Equipment at Kiewit Corporation, Steven Curry. “ISU really had all the capabilities that we’re looking for in terms of the diesel program, the stationary power program and the emphasis on electrical troubleshooting and repair. Over the last year, we’ve had great experiences with ISU graduates, both as interns and full-time hires. The quality of instruction and the diversity of the program give me confidence that the future of this partnership is very bright.”

This partnership has already opened doors for students. In recent years, diesel students have completed internships at the Soda Springs Itafos mine, as well as placements in Maine and Alaska — demonstrating how industry connections play a vital role in helping students move from the classroom into rewarding careers.

To learn more about the Diesel and On-Site Power Generation program at Idaho State University’s College of Technology, and future career opportunities, visit isu.edu/dieseltechnology.