Posted on 02/20/2008 3:20:53 PM PST by SandRat
AL KUT — Finding a good auto mechanic, air conditioning repairman or electrician in Wassit province just got easier.
The U.S. Army Corps of Engineers is managing an Al Kut vocational technical school expansion and renovation to facilities that will help equip students with trade skills to improve their livelihood and contribute to the local economy, adding to Iraq’s sustainment capability.
The $788,852 Commander’s Emergency Response Program funded project at the Al Kut Vocational Technical Center supports the Multi-National Division-Central and 3rd Infantry Division’s objectives for the Wassit province.
Maj. Clay Morgan, resident engineer of the Wassit Resident Office of the Gulf Region South district, said the repair and expansion project is critical to the maneuver force. “It’s also very important for the Al Kut government and especially the headmaster of that particular school,” he said. More than 100 students are currently attending the school in six curriculum areas. Capacity is expected to grow up to 175 students as work is completed on a two new workshops.
Work on the project began in October 2007 and includes construction of two workshops, a storage building, and pads for two new back-up generators and fuel tanks. Renovation of the existing school building upgraded restrooms for students and staff, repaired water and sewer lines, installed fire suppression, and repaired and repainted interior and exterior walls.
Morgan said the project is giving the school the ability to provide more courses to train young Iraqis and give them a trade. “They do everything from air conditioning, to metal shop to carpentry; even auto mechanics,” he said. “It’s a very diverse Vo-Tech and a visible part of the Al Kut community.”
The construction contractor is from Wassit province and averages 20-30 local workers on the site. “It has been a partnership from the beginning, from the preconstruction meeting … ” Morgan said, adding that communication has been very good. “It is always a joy to have a good contractor who sees it as a partnership.”
The school is expected to take occupancy of the new buildings in the Spring, however, final completion of the project is awaiting delivery of a generator from outside the country. “It was mutually agreed to get the best generator the funding would allow,” Morgan said, “Short term pain for long term gain.”
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