The North Dakota Department of Transportation (NDDOT) celebrated the 20th year of its Fall Transportation Technician Training Academy Oct. 6, 2025, at Camp Grafton located just south of Devils Lake.
The week-long academy provides new maintenance team members from across the state with classroom and hands-on training on machinery, processes and productivity and is taught by senior team members sharing expertise gained over years on the job.
This NDDOT program plays a central role in promoting consistency, safety and teamwork statewide. Over the last 20 years, the academy has trained 1,248 students, adding up to more than 62,400 hours of training.
Last year, the academy earned the American Association of State Highway and Transportation Officials President's Award — a national honor that recognizes the impact made by NDDOT team members involved in the academy. The academy also is offered to operators from Tribal Nations across the state.
"After 20 years, the Transportation Technician Training Academy remains a cornerstone of NDDOT's commitment to excellence," said Matt Linneman, NDDOT deputy director of engineering. "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 for their partnership. The training academy is a mutually beneficial partnership between the NDDOT and the National Guard at Camp Grafton. Participants are provided with real-world road maintenance experience while repairing roads at Camp Grafton, allowing a safe and secure training environment.
As the academy enters its third decade, NDDOT remains committed to preparing the next generation of transportation professionals. By combining hands-on experience, mentorship and a focus on safety and teamwork, the academy continues to strengthen North Dakota's transportation workforce and ensure the state's roads are well-maintained for years to come.
For more information, visit dot.nd.gov.
