A new graduating class of Alabama community college students is ready to hit the job market with skills that will put them in-demand to support the utility industry.

Bishop State, Lawson State, Trenholm State and Jefferson State community colleges are investing in the future by offering technical training programs to prepare students for careers in the skilled trades.

As part of its ongoing commitment to workforce development, Alabama Power partners with these colleges to offer lineworker training 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 practice in an outdoor learning laboratory, honing their new skills so they are job-ready upon graduation.

Last week, 48 students successfully completed lineworker training programs in Birmingham, Montgomery and Mobile.

“We are excited to partner with these outstanding colleges and provide opportunities for Alabamians to train for great, safe careers as lineworkers,” said Tom McNeal, Alabama Power Workforce Development Program manager. “These graduates will provide us, our utility contractors, municipalities and utility partners across the state with well-trained talent for years to come.”

Post-graduation response has been favorable from hiring companies.

Potential students who want to apply or learn more about the programs can access each school through the Alabama Community College System website.

(Courtesy of Alabama NewsCenter)