Trinidad State Junior College Announces the Line Technician Program

 Trinidad State Junior College, in cooperation with San Isabel Electric Association and Tri-State Generation and Transmission Association, is announcing the new Southern Colorado Line Technician Program starting Fall Semester 2007.

 Highly trained, qualified workers are in demand for the linework occupation.  According to the U.S. Department of Labor, training of line installers, repairers, technicians, and erectors is critical.  Approximately 40% of the current workforce are expected to retire in the next five years, which will leave a vacancy of about 11,300 jobs nationwide.  With the expanded network of electrical power lines delivering electricity to an ever-increasing customer base, it is critical that training opportunities be available.

Trinidad State Junior College has partnered with San Isabel Electric Association and Tri-State Generation and Transmission Association to provide needed training opportunities.  A curriculum designed to provide theoretical and hands-on training is being created for Fall 2007.  Students may select a one-year certificate or two-year Associate of Applied Science degree option that prepares them for a demanding career in the field.  This is a hazardous field and the curriculum is written to train the students to gain knowledge of electricity, overhead construction, rigging, underground construction, live line work with rubber gloves, hot sticking, 3 pi metering, transformer banks, regulators, and safety, including pole top rescue.

While the working conditions are challenging, graduates can expect to have an earning potential in the range of $21.00 - $34.00 per hour.  Line installers and repairers held about 251,000 jobs in 2004 and the job outlook for new workers in this field is expected to grow—particularly for electrical powerline installers.  Many companies are expected to expand their hiring in anticipation of increased retirements.

Class sizes are limited.  Call TSJC now, at 719 846-5650 and secure your future.