11 Men Graduate PCC to be Apprentice Linemen

On Wednesday, Aug. 12 the Electrical Power Technology Work Force Investment Board trainees graduated from Pratt Community College in Pratt, Kans. The 11 men demonstrated their job skills and knowledge while the prospective employers observed.
 
There were 15 different employers and 70 to 80 family members, school officials and personnel in attendance. There were also members of the Work Force Investment Board, the Department of Commerce and the Dean of Technical Instruction from Coffeyville Community College attending. Many of the Electrical Power Technology men had job interviews following the job fair.
 
The program was designed to help unemployed and displaced workers. Each person had to undergo in-depth screening by the Work Force Investment Board, as part of the Government Stimulus money to assist in getting these guys back to work.
 
The men had to spend time both in the classroom and in the field. The men are certified in pole top rescue, bucket truck rescue, CDL, First Aid and CPR.
 
“I have really enjoyed these students,” Dave Campbell, EPT instructor, said. “Working with them has been a pleasure because these guys are unemployed and they’re worried about their families and their futures. I have never seen anyone that is so motivated to do what is asked of them and to return to the workforce with a job. It has been rewarding for me and I feel it is very worthwhile.”
 
It is projected that there will be a high demand for linemen in the next five years. Therefore, in January 2010, PCC will be expanding the Electrical Power Technology program by offering satellite campuses in Dodge City and in Coffeyville.