Powerline

Powerline installers construct and maintain electrical overhead and underground powerlines in this challenging out-of-doors career. As a student, you receive training in a 40-acre outdoor laboratory as well as in the classroom. You learn to climb, set, and remove various sized poles; frame structures; install conductors and street lights; install underground cable; trim trees; and operate trucks along with various equipment. In conjunction with the hands-on experience, you learn about electrical concepts and theory, construction techniques, transmission and distribution systems, safety, materials, and hardware. In addition, you learn communication skills and earn a First Aid Certificate.

A CDL is required for employment.  Students may choose to obtain their Class A CDL prior to enrollment at NCC, or students may complete a non-credit CDL training program once enrolled at NCC. More information regarding this non-credit CDL training program at NCC will be provided at orientation. Please also note that as of 8-11-2022, Iowa DOT does not allow NCC to train or test anyone from out of state with a K restriction on their permit.

Before entering this exciting program, you should consider whether you meet the general occupational and program work requirements: lift at least 80 pounds; have manipulative skills to work in awkward positions to accomplish tasks; be able to handle strenuous activities such as pulling, climbing, walking, carrying, or standing for extended periods of time; work in any weather conditions safely including inclement weather and extremely hot and cold temperatures; be able to work in elevated positions and ascend and descend from various heights; meet manufacturer’s weight limit restrictions for various pieces of equipment (300 pound maximum weight); be physically and mentally able to operate standard industry equipment such as a bucket truck, digger derrick truck and various other light to medium equipment; be able to constantly monitor radio transmissions and communicate effectively to exchange ideas over a two-way radio/cellphone; work in a team environment and be able to communicate effectively with other students in various locations of the powerline field, lab and classroom; and be able to hear engine RPM, faint arcing sounds, and transformer humming to determine the status of equipment. In addition, incoming students must complete a health assessment which is due 30 days prior to the start of the semester/term.

Powerline work is safety sensitive so you are required to submit to a drug and alcohol screening in your first term of the program. You are required to comply with the College’s Student Procedure for Drug & Alcohol Testing. You are also subject to a random selection program while enrolled in the program. This testing is similar to what is done in industry.

Graduates of the Powerline program are in demand by electrical utilities, rural electric cooperatives, and construction companies. The employment opportunities for powerline installers are excellent across the country, and those applicants with formal training typically have higher starting salaries and great opportunity for advancement within the industry.