Courtesy photo Students in Alpena Community College’s Utility Technology program pose with representatives of Alpena Power Company in front of the digger truck recently donated to the college.

ALPENA, MICH. — Alpena Community College Foundation is proud to announce a significant in-kind gift from Alpena Power Company: the donation of a 2008 Altec Digger Derrick DM47BR mounted on an International Durastar 4300. The truck, which weighs 23,790 pounds and has served in Alpena Power’s fleet for 17 years, will enhance hands-on learning and safety training for students enrolled in ACC’s Utility Technology program.

The digger derrick truck has been an essential piece of Alpena Power’s line-service equipment, setting countless utility poles throughout Northeast Michigan. Its capabilities–including a maximum horizontal reach of 37 feet and a digging radius of 26.7 feet–will offer ACC students the opportunity to learn on authentic industry machinery used daily in the field.

“We’ll use this truck to teach the students how to dig a pole hole, set a new pole, set a transformer, and pull out an old pole,” said Utility Technology Instructor Rick Smith. “It’ll be used for years to come.”

Alpena Power President and Chief Operating Officer Ken Dragiewicz said the donation reflects the company’s commitment to strengthening the local workforce and supporting education in the region.

“At Alpena Power Company, we believe in investing directly in the future of our community. By donating this digger derrick truck to Alpena Community College, we’re helping students gain practical experience on the same equipment used every day by our crews,” he said. “ACC has been a strong partner in building a local workforce, and we’re committed to investing in the students who will help keep our communities powered for years to come.”

ACC’s Utility Technology program continues to grow as demand rises for skilled lineworkers across Michigan and the nation. Hands-on training with industry-standard equipment is a hallmark of the program, which includes classroom instruction, a climbing yard, and field exercises.

This donation underscores the long-standing partnership between Alpena Community College and Alpena Power Company, who together help power the region’s workforce and support economic development.

For more information about the Utility Technology program at Alpena Community College, visit alpenacc.edu or contact the ACC Admissions Office at 989-358-7339.