Search

Line Worker Training

About The Course

Trenholm State Community College’s Line Worker Training Program is an intensive, hands-on program designed to prepare participants for entry-level careers in the electric utility industry. The program combines technical instruction, safety training, pole climbing, Commercial Driver License (CDL) training, and practical field experience to prepare participants for the physical and technical demands of a line worker career.

Skill Participants Will Learn

Upon completion, the students will be able to:

  • Line worker safety and industry practices
  • Basic hand tools and equipment
  • Pole climbing and working at heights
  • Electrical and utility fundamentals
  • OSHA and workplace safety
  • CPR/First Aid
  • Commercial Driver License (CDL) training
  • Hands-on line worker skills and field exercises
Dates 

The primary Line Worker Training class begins on the first Monday in January each year. An additional class may begin on the last Monday in March based on regional workforce needs.

Program Length and Schedule

Program Length: 10 weeks

During the CDL portion of the program, participants attend class 10 hours per day, five days per week. After CDL training is completed, class meets 10 hours per day, four days per week for the remainder of the 10-week program.

Additional Student Costs
  • Participants should plan for up to an additional $250 for required boots and clothing.

Books, Materials, or Supplies Included

Training materials are included in program tuition.

Candidate Selection

Admission to the Line Worker Training Program is competitive and includes a two-phase selection process.

Phase 1 – Skills Assessment

Candidates are evaluated in the following areas:

  • Basic hand-tool and measurement knowledge
  • Basic math skills
  • Basic reading skills

Scores from the Phase 1 evaluations are combined, and the top 45 candidates advance to Phase 2.

Phase 2 – Climbing & Interview Evaluation

Candidates advancing to Phase 2 complete:

  • A climbing evaluation
  • An interview skills evaluation

Following Phase 2, scores from both phases are averaged. The 12 highest-scoring candidates are invited to participate in the upcoming class.

An additional five candidates are selected as alternates and may be offered a seat if one becomes available.

Orientation

Selected candidates and alternates are required to attend a mandatory orientation, tentatively scheduled for the third week of November.

Program Capacity

Each Line Worker Training cohort is limited to 12 participants, with five alternates selected through the competitive selection process.

Credential Earned or Examination Eligibility

Students who successfully complete the program receive intensive training designed to prepare them for entry-level line worker employment and related opportunities within the electric utility industry.
Program training includes OSHA and workplace safety, CPR/First Aid, Commercial Driver License (CDL) training and Fiber Optics training.

Potential Career Opportunities

Graduates may pursue entry-level opportunities within the electric utility industry and related fields. Potential career pathways may include utility line work, electrical distribution and transmission, telecommunications and fiber infrastructure, and positions requiring a Commercial Driver License.

Scholarships or Student Support Available
  • Financial assistance and scholarships may be available to candidates selected for the program. Selected candidates will receive information regarding available financial assistance during the enrollment process.
Registration/Application Method 

Application and participation in the competitive selection process are required.  Applications for the 2027 class have closed.  Applications for the 2028 class will be available June1 – August 31, 2027.

Contact: 

For additional information about the Line Worker Training Program, upcoming selection dates, financial assistance, or the application process, contact:

Danny Carden
Program Coordinator
dcarden@trenholmstate.edu

Program Overview

Line Worker Training

Ready to Get Started?

Technical & Skilled Trades
Technical & Skilled Trades

Learn hands-on technical skills for careers in construction, utilities, and industrial maintenance.

Fall Start Dates: September 16 • October 14 • November 11
Course Length: 6 Weeks (Office Value Suite: 12 Weeks)
Delivery: Instructor-Led Online

CourseDatesScheduleLocationCostMore Information / Register
Line Worker Program Application Due August 31, 20261/4/27 – 3/12/277:00-5:00 M-TH. 7:00-3:00 FridayM114, Patterson Campus$4150

More Information

Apply 

Fiber Optics Technician9/10/26-9/11/268:00 AM–5:00 PM both daysE116, Patterson CampusNo Cost

More Information

ahurst@trenholmstate.edu 

Heavy Equipment Operator - Skid Steer10/6/26-10/7/268:00 AM–5:00 PM both daysE116, Patterson CampusNo Cost

More Information

ahurst@trenholmstate.edu 

Heavy Equipment Operator - BulldozerLab schedule varies2-day lab following theory completionPatterson CampusNo Cost

More Information

Join Interest List 

Heavy Equipment Operator - ExcavatorLab schedule varies2-day lab following theory completionPatterson CampusNo Cost

More Information

Join Interest List 

Plumbing AssistantPlanned for Spring 2027TBAPatterson Campus 

More Information

Join Interest List 

HVAC TrainingPlanned for Spring 2027TBAPatterson Campus 

More Information

Join Interest List 

OSHA 1010/15/26-10/16/268:00 AM - 5:00 PM (10/15), 8:00 AM - Noon (10/16)M105, Patterson Campus$175 per person

More Information

Join Interest List