Training the power line worker of tomorrow

The SC Technical College System Foundation awarded Tri-County Technical College a second year of funding from a $1 million Duke Energy grant to expand its power lineworker training program to meet workforce demands.  As Duke Energy and other utilities build the smart-thinking grid of the future, and the industry adapts to an aging workforce that will retire in coming years – thousands of jobs will be created and filled.  The backbone of the workforce is the certified utility lineworker.  The 12-week power lineworker training program, offered through the College’s Corporate and Community Education Division, offers training on how to operate a bucket truck, along with pole climbing, pole top rescue, naming material, demo digging and setting poles, hanging insulators, switching and underground work.  Initially, the program was only offered during the day.  The grant allows offerings now to include evening classes to accommodate individuals who are employed during the day. Another goal for this year is to recruit more minorities and veterans.  The program has been added to the VA-approved training list which gives veterans a great opportunity to use their education and training benefits to transition into a great career with excellent salary and growth potential. Since last fall the entire first graduating class of the program gained employment in the industry.  Sixty percent of the February 2020 class received employment offers before completing the program.   At the end of the class, level I power lineworker students participate in a rodeo where they showcased their skills for potential employers who are looking to fill these in-demand job across the state. Classes are held Monday – Thursday, 8 a.m. – 5 p.m. and Fridays from 8 a.m. – 2 p.m.  Evening hours are to be determined. For more information about the power lineworker program, contact Julia Lee, training coordinator (transportation) for the Corporate and Community Education Division, [email protected], 864-646-1707.