ICTC Students Transform Trimble House at Jimmy Stewart Airport

A key building at the Indiana County Jimmy Stewart Airport has been given new purpose and life thanks to the skilled work of students from the Indiana County Technology Center (ICTC). Under the guidance of instructor Tim Bash, ICTC building trades students completed a full-scale interior renovation of the Trimble House—a structure known for its historical significance—an effort that served both educational and community development goals.

The project included a complete interior gutting of the building, followed by a detailed reconstruction process. Students framed new interior walls, rewired the electrical system, installed new drywall on ceilings and walls, laid a new subfloor, finished and painted all surfaces, and added interior doors and trim. Additional upgrades included new flooring, a suspended ceiling system, an accessibility ramp, interior waterproofing of the basement, new baseboard heating units, and new exterior doors.

“This was a tremendous firsthand learning experience for our students,” said ICTC instructor Tim Bash. “They took this project from the ground up—literally—and now have a deeper understanding of the entire remodeling process.”

Multiple community organizations, including Penn State Extension, will use the renovated Trimble House. Toni Grafton, representing the Extension Service, expressed her appreciation for the improved space.

“The transformation is incredible,” said Grafton. “The building is brighter, more functional, and welcoming. It’s a wonderful space for programs, meetings, and public events. We are so thankful for the students’ hard work and the vision that made this possible.”

Indiana County Commissioner Chair Mike Keith also praised the project and its broader significance.

“This is a great example of what happens when education, local government, and community organizations work together,” said Keith. “These students didn’t just renovate a building—they contributed to a long-term community asset and developed job-ready skills in the process.”

With the Trimble House now fully revitalized, it stands as a testament to community collaboration, workforce training, and the continued investment in Indiana County’s future.