ALBEMARLE — Stanly County Community College graduated 13 electrical lineworker students in late November, all of whom received scholarships to help pay for the certification, nearly $9,000 total, according to a press release from the college.
The 12-week program teaches “basic elements of electricity, overhead pole and electrical line construction, safety codes and applications, electric power systems, as well as transformer and meter installations.” Those who complete the program are then qualified to work for utility companies seeking workers for their electrical lines.
Electrical utility lineworkers spend their careers installing and repairing power lines, identifying problems within the system they are responsible for monitoring and inspecting electrical equipment. They use bucket trucks, climb poles and work around live wires, so safety is a major concern in their training, which includes a 10-hour OHSA course and a CPR and First Aid certification.
“When you are out in the field, always think about your safety, think about your coworker’s safety, never leave your guard down and think safety first,” said Donnie Jessup, regional safety superintendent at Utility Lines Construction Services, LLC, one of the speakers at the graduation.
Due to COVID-19, the graduation was held outside the Albemarle Campus’ Snyder Building, while family and friends were asked to remain in their vehicles or to watch via the livestream. Jeff Parsons, vice president of academic affairs and chief academic officer at SCC, introduced the ceremony, and Karen Kiker, continuing education coordinator and faculty associate, was the invocation speaker.
The certifications, presented by SCC President Dr. Enamait, were given to: Gunner Brown (Badin), Mason Davis (West End), Juan Garcia (Staley), Samuel Hinson (Oakboro), Asheton House (Albemarle), Holden Icenhour (Mt. Pleasant), Mason Lamperski (Midland), Jalen Long (Norwood), Avery Owens (Polkton), Bryan Tinoco-Reyes (Seagroves), Matthew Watts (Norwood), Justis Williams (Eagle Springs) and Jared Yates (Concord).
Data provided by SCC in the press release showed average yearly income for electrical line workers to be around $63,000 and job openings in the field set to grow.
The next semester for the program begins Jan. 5 for a maximum of 12 students. Those interested can find more information about the electrical lineworker program on SCC’s website and can contact Garrett Allen at (704) 991-0169 or [email protected] to register.