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New Rig Bolsters Fire Training

Longtime industry partner Ariens Company once again demonstrated its support to Fox Valley Technical College, this time through the donation of a Gravely® Atlas JSV utility vehicle, outfitted for wildland and structural firefighting.

The new rig, designed for heavy-duty work and rough terrain, will assist FVTC students in the Wildland Fire and Fire Protection Technician programs with trench training, confined space drills, and both prescribed and emergency burn exercises. On average, about 45-50 firefighters a year graduate from FVTC. In addition, the college provides customized training for existing professional firefighters.

Ariens’ history of supporting FVTC in other areas includes scholarships, advisory committee service, resources for high school articulation initiatives, and in-kind donations to the college’s Outdoor Power Equipment Technician program.

Celebrating the donation together were (left to right): Mary Downs, FVTC Foundation; Jeremy Hansen, Public Safety division; Jon Kellermann, Wildland Fire; Ginger King, Ariens Specialty Brands; and FVTC President Dr. Susan May

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