Electric Power Distribution
The need to maintain, expand and improve the vast networks of wires and cables throughout the nation is on center stage. Providing the ability to transmit electric power produced in generating plants to individual customers, businesses and to government is vital.
In each of these networks, they are constructed and maintained by line installers and cable splices. This includes installing new electric power or telephone lines, poles, terminals, erecting towers, and placing wires and cables.
They use power equipment to dig holes and set poles, they climb the poles or use truck-mounted buckets and use hand tools to attach cables. Additionally, they also install transformers, circuit breakers, switches; bury underground cable, use trenchers, plows, and power equipment. Line installers and cable splices also maintain and repair telephone, power, and cable television lines.
In addition, they ensure that lines are clear of tree limbs, obstacles, check insulation on cables and other equipment on line poles. Safety policies and procedures will be taught and strictly adhered to. Students will learn motor vehicle operation (CDL), CPR, first aid, maintenance and attain a working knowledge of ropes and rigging, proper application of rubber protective equipment and use of hot sticks. During bad weather or other natural disasters they make emergency repairs to broken wires or cables, knock down poles, or when underground ducts collapse.
Career Opportunities
This program prepares a student to advance to an electric line technician apprenticeship and related occupations. Employment has been excellent for graduates in the following types of jobs:
- Electric Utility Lineman
- Cable Maintenance Technicians
- Equipment Operator
- Telephone Repairman
- Cable TV Installer
- Apprentice Line Technician
- Troubleshooter
- Line Inspectors
- Substation Operator
- Cable Splicer
Helpful Academic Background
- Math, computer skills and technical education courses.
Program Outcomes
At the completion of this program, graduates will be able to:
- Apply basic electrical principles to electrical power distribution
- Use basic meters to check electrical circuits
- Do basic calculations relative to circuit loading and wire size
- Climb and work overhead
- Use computers to communicate, diagnostic and recordkeeping
- Perform associated mechanical operations necessary to install, service, or remove electrical line equipment
- Work cooperatively in construction crews
- First Aid and CPR certification
- Commercial Drivers License (CDL)
- Read construction orders and prints
- Communicate using written and oral means
Program Basics
- Technical diploma, nine months to complete
- Day classes.
- High school articulation courses accepted.
- Classes start in August.
- Financial aid available.
- EPD students must achieve a “C” grade or better in each course of the program curriculum to be eligible to progress.
Program Admission Requirements
- Complete required assessment testing.
- Complete the application form.
- Interview with counselor.
- Pay $30 application fee (this is not refundable).
- Submit high school and any post-secondary transcripts.
- Acquire leather work shoes.
- Students may re-apply to be admitted to a program for which they initially do not meet the Student Academic Achievement Plan (SAAP) criteria after they follow the additional courses and alternate program sequence prescribed for them.
Program Fees
Please contact Student Services at 800.362.3322, Ext. 2354, or email student-services@swtc.edu for current fee information.
A Program Fee list is provided (please note the costs are approximate and based on the current academic year).
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