Jefferson State, ¡HICA! partner to recruit and train next generation of Alabama lineworkers
A new graduating class of Jefferson State Community College students is ready to hit the job market with skills that will put them in demand to support the utility industry.
Students were recruited through the Hispanic Interest Coalition of Alabama (¡HICA!), a catalyst for economic empowerment and progress for the Latino community. Eleven students recently completed the 10-week program and participated in commencement.
The graduates are: Daniel Angeles, Emilio Chavez, Rafael Cid, Saul Flores, Gustavo Gonzalez, Milton Palacios, Dylan Rosales, Bryan Solano, Justin Straate, Maritza Valdez and James White IV.
As part of its ongoing commitment to workforce development, Alabama Power partners with Jefferson State, as well as Bishop State, Lawson State and Trenholm State community colleges, to offer programs in Birmingham, Montgomery and Mobile.
Through this innovative partnership, students can learn the fundamentals of electricity as well as the math and science knowledge needed to work on power lines. In addition to classroom instruction, students receive hands-on training in an outdoor laboratory, honing their new skills so they are job-ready upon graduation.
Post-graduation response has been favorable from hiring companies.
“We have fantastic partnerships with the community colleges and organizations like ¡HICA!, and are excited to work together to provide opportunities for Alabamians to train for careers as lineworkers,” said Jeff Peoples, Alabama Power executive vice president of Customer and Employee Services. “Ensuring our state’s workforce is well-represented and trained for success is one of the ways we’re working to power a better Alabama.”
Applications for the January and April 2023 lineworker training classes are closing soon. Interested students can apply at Bishop State Community College, Jefferson State Community College, Lawson State Community College or Trenholm State Community College.