New Program Provides Training in High-Demand Utility Industry
AC News Service
Thanks in part to funding from the Texas Higher Education Coordinating Board’s (THECB) Texas Reskilling and Upskilling through Education (TRUE) Grant, Angelina College has officially launched its new Electrical Lineworker Program, providing students with the training, certifications, and hands-on experience needed to pursue careers in the high-demand electrical utility industry.
The inaugural cohort is already hard at work, focusing on the critical safety foundations that serve as the backbone of electrical linework. As part of their training, students earn OSHA 10 and CPR certifications, ensuring they develop the safety knowledge and skills necessary for success in the field.
The Electrical Lineworker Program combines classroom instruction with hands-on field training, allowing students to learn electrical theory, equipment operation, and industry safety standards while gaining practical experience using industry tools and equipment in realistic training environments. Graduates are prepared to meet workforce demands throughout Deep East Texas and pursue entry-level careers in the electrical utility industry.
Developed with support from the THECB TRUE Grant and in collaboration with regional industry leaders, the program was designed to equip students with the skills and knowledge employers need. Industry partners serve on the program’s Advisory Committee and play a key role in developing the curriculum and program learning outcomes.
“The support provided through the THECB TRUE Grant allowed Angelina College to create a program that directly responds to workforce needs across Deep East Texas,” Dr. Esther Campbell, Assistant Vice President of Academic Affairs, said. “By combining industry-driven curriculum, hands-on training, and recognized safety certifications, we’re preparing students for rewarding careers that are critical to our communities and infrastructure.”
Advisory Committee members include representatives from the City of Newton, City of Jasper, Deep East Texas Electric Cooperative, Houston County Electric Cooperative, Jasper-Newton Electric Cooperative, Oncor, and Sam Houston Electric Cooperative.
“Our industry partners have been instrumental in helping us build a program that aligns with real-world workforce needs,” Aaron Smith, Lead Instructor for the Electrical Lineworker Program, said. “Their expertise ensures students receive relevant, hands-on training and are prepared to contribute immediately upon entering the profession.”
Angelina College is excited to watch its inaugural class, along with future cohorts, climb toward success as they prepare to become the next generation of electrical lineworkers who will help power homes, businesses, and communities throughout Texas.
For further information regarding the program, contact Aaron Smith at asmith@angelina.edu.
Photo captions:
Group:
Students and instructors from Angelina College’s new Electrical Lineworker Program pose during a recent training session. The program provides students with the training, certifications, and hands-on experience needed to pursue careers in the high-demand electrical utility industry. (Gary Stallard photo for AC News Service)
Students 1:
Students in Angelina College’s new Electrical Lineworker Program practice navigating their way up utility poles in a recent training session. The program provides students with the training, certifications, and hands-on experience needed to pursue careers in the high-demand electrical utility industry. (Gary Stallard photo for AC News Service)
Students 13:
Students in Angelina College’s new Electrical Lineworker Program practice navigating their way up utility poles in a recent training session. The program provides students with the training, certifications, and hands-on experience needed to pursue careers in the high-demand electrical utility industry. (Gary Stallard photo for AC News Service)