CASPER, WY — In a move that strengthens community safety education, the Casper Fire‑EMS Department announced it will donate two of its older fire engines to the fire‑science program at Casper College. The two 1999 American LaFrance pumpers have served the department for 27 years and are now being repurposed as training assets for future firefighters.
Why the trucks are being retired
Interim Fire Chief Devin Garvin explained that the trucks were originally kept as backup units after the city purchased new apparatus. Over time, the aging fleet became harder to maintain because replacement parts such as door handles, windshields and motor components are no longer readily available. One of the engines even has a primary fire pump that no longer functions.
“Rather than receiving a one‑time financial gain from an auction, we would prefer to give them to Casper College so that they can continue to benefit the community and the citizens of Casper,” Garvin said.
Benefits for students and the city
The donation will be made in an “as‑is” condition at no additional cost to the municipality, eliminating the need for further storage and upkeep. Casper College fire‑science instructor Justin Smith said the trucks will give associate‑degree students practical experience in apparatus inspections, pump operations, hose deployment and preventive maintenance.
“Even though these vehicles are 27 years old, they are still modern in terms of the way we can equip them and utilize them in actual fire‑ground practices,” Smith noted, adding that the trucks provide a more realistic training platform than the college’s existing 1976 pumper.
Students will use the engines for a range of hands‑on exercises, including loading and stretching hose, positioning the apparatus at a structure, and conducting equipment placement drills. The college’s diesel‑mechanics and auto‑body programs may also find useful applications for the trucks.
Longstanding ties between the department and the college
Garvin highlighted the deep connection between the fire department and Casper College, noting that many current firefighters, including himself, Chief Jacob Black and Deputy Chief Jason Speiser, are alumni of the college’s Thunderbirds fire‑science program. He estimated that over half of the department’s personnel have graduated from the program.
The city council’s work session confirmed the donation, and the transfer will proceed once the trucks are formally moved to the college’s facilities.
Community impact
By repurposing the retired engines for education, Casper is investing in the next generation of firefighters while reducing municipal expenses. The partnership underscores the city’s commitment to public safety, vocational training and responsible stewardship of taxpayer resources.
Original reporting: Oil City News (Casper WY) — read the source article.
