North Dakota – This week, the North Dakota Department of Transportation (NDDOT) celebrated the 20th anniversary of its Fall Transportation Technician Training Academy at Camp Grafton, just south of Devils Lake.

The week-long Academy provides new maintenance team members from across the state with both classroom instruction and hands-on training in machinery, processes, and productivity. The program is led by senior team members sharing expertise gained over years on the job.

Over the last two decades, the Academy has trained 1,248 students, totaling more than 62,400 hours of training. It has played a central role in promoting consistency, safety, and teamwork statewide and is also offered to operators from Tribal Nations. Last year, the program earned the American Association of State Highway and Transportation Officials President’s Award, a national honor recognizing the impact of NDDOT team members involved in the Academy.

“After 20 years, the Transportation Technician Training Academy remains a cornerstone of NDDOT’s commitment to excellence,” said NDDOT Deputy Director of Engineering Matt Linneman. “By combining hands-on experience, mentorship, and teamwork, we’re not just training team members, we’re shaping the future of transportation in North Dakota.”

At the graduation ceremony, Linneman presented a memento of appreciation to the North Dakota National Guard, whose partnership at Camp Grafton provides participants with real-world road maintenance experience in a safe and secure environment.

As the Academy enters its third decade, NDDOT continues its commitment to preparing the next generation of transportation professionals, ensuring North Dakota’s roads remain well-maintained for years to come.