This fall, TSTC in Harlingen introduced both an Associate of Applied Science degree in Electrical Lineworker Technology and a certificate in Electrical Lineworker Technology.
Magic Valley Electric Cooperative (MVEC) recently donated $20,000 to the Texas State Technical College Foundation, to establish a scholarship fund for the Electrical Lineworker Technology program. The funds will assist deserving students with tuition, books, and tools to help them aim higher and succeed in the newly introduced program in Harlingen.
This fall, TSTC in Harlingen introduced both an Associate of Applied Science degree in Electrical Lineworker Technology and a certificate in Electrical Lineworker Technology. Both programs adequately prepare students for careers as lineworkers.
In this practical, hands-on training program, students will develop the knowledge and skills to safely climb poles, properly operate a utility bucket truck, learn how to install, operate, maintain, and repair distribution lines. Students will study basic circuits, wiring practice, A.C. and D.C. controls, safety procedures, and learn about power lines, which carry electricity from the source to its destination.
Magic Valley Electric Cooperative
Students who are enrolled in the Associate of Applied Science degree in Electrical Lineworker Technology will also have the opportunity to earn a commercial driver’s license (CDL) while in the program. The program has four utility bucket trucks to help train students to prepare for an exciting career.
“The TSTC Foundation is so very grateful for this gift,” said senior field development officer Richard Mesquias. “The funds will enable the TSTC Foundation to help TSTC in its work to prepare students for the workforce now and in the future.”
Magic Valley Electric Cooperative General Manager, John Herrera, reiterated the importance of community bonds. “Magic Valley Electric Cooperative believes in empowering the communities we serve,” he said. “When TSTC reached out to us about investing in their Electrical Lineworker program in the form of a scholarship fund, we did not hesitate. This partnership aligns with our fifth and seventh cooperative principle: Education, Training & Information and Concern for Community.”
Mesquias said that community relationships are vital through the process of obtaining a technical education.
“Building partnerships with Rio Grande Valley employers like MVEC contributes to the TSTC mission of developing highly specialized advanced and emerging technical areas for certificates or associate degrees in this field,” added Mesquias. “Market demand for electrical lineworker positions in the state of Texas is expected to grow, which means TSTC graduates of this program will be highly sought after in Texas.”
Magic Valley Electric Cooperative
Ultimately, funding for scholarships from well-known companies in the Rio Grande Valley will give students confidence as they pursue their degree and acknowledge that their community is rallying behind them.
“Local companies in the Valley are rooting for our students to succeed,” said Herrera. “If students prosper, we will all benefit. Together, we all live, work, and play in this wonderful community of the Rio Grande Valley.”
The number of electrical line installers and repairers is projected to increase nationally to 128,900 by 2028, according to the U.S. Bureau of Labor Statistics. If you enjoy traveling, working outdoors, and working with electrical equipment, then this training program may be for you.
For more information visit TSTC online.
