A new initiative from the New Hampshire Department of Safety is giving high school students a hands-on opportunity to train on real automotive equipment by donating retired state vehicle engines to local automotive technology programs.
Dubbed the “Reclaim Rally,” the engine donation program connects the Department of Safety with high schools across the state that offer auto repair training. The first engines are being distributed to programs in Laconia, Manchester and Rochester.
“This engine donation program, also known as the Reclaim Rally, will allow us to connect with schools throughout the state that have auto repair programs and donate much-needed engines to their programs for students to learn on,” said Jennifer Maguire of the Department of Safety.
“I can't thank them enough, and also the Department of Safety,” said Warren Hoffman, representing the Huot Career & Technical Center in Laconia, told WMUR 9 News. “It means the world to us to have donations. It keeps students up to date.”
Gov. Kelly Ayotte emphasized the long-term workforce benefits of the program, especially as the demand for skilled trade workers continues to grow. “It is all, at the end of the day, about making sure that our kids get that opportunity in the trades,” Ayotte said. “They are very good-paying jobs and jobs we need, or we can't drive safely on our roads.”
The Reclaim Rally represents a collaborative step between state government and education leaders to modernize technical instruction, support the future of the state’s automotive workforce, and provide students with access to real-world experience.
