Bishop State Community College – Lineman Training Program
Trade Schools and Apprenticeships in Alabama / Bishop State Community College – Lineman Training Program
Bishop State Community College – Lineman Training Program (Mobile, AL)
Program Information
Bishop State Community College offers a focused Lineman Training Program through its Workforce Development and continuing education division, preparing students for careers in the electrical distribution and powerline industry. This program is designed to equip participants with essential technical knowledge, safety training, and hands-on skills needed to work as groundhands, utility support personnel, or to progress toward formal apprenticeships with electrical contractors and utility providers.
The lineman curriculum at Bishop State introduces students to key concepts of powerline work including basic electricity, transmission and distribution fundamentals, pole climbing, rigging, safety procedures, and equipment operation. Instruction emphasizes real-world scenarios and industry best practices, ensuring that graduates have a solid foundation before entering field roles. Through classroom learning and lab-style training, students become familiar with powerline materials, tools, protective gear, and jobsite expectations, making them strong contenders for entry-level utility positions or competitive apprenticeship applications.
The program also incorporates OSHA safety standards and other industry-recognized safety certifications to ensure student readiness on actual construction sites. Bishop State partners with local contractors and electric utilities where available, providing students with exposure to potential employers and enhanced networking opportunities within the industry.
Program Length
- Typically spans multiple weeks of structured training (varies by session)
- Includes classroom instruction combined with hands-on exercises
- Sessions may be offered seasonally or based on enrollment demand
Hands-On Training
Students receive practical experience in:
- Basic pole climbing and elevated work safety
- Powerline equipment usage and rigging techniques
- Fundamentals of power distribution systems
- Jobsite safety practices and OSHA compliance
- Workplace expectations for utility construction roles
Wages & Career Outlook
Graduates from Bishops State’s lineman program are positioned for entry-level groundhand roles with contractors, cooperatives, and utility partners. While the program itself is a training bridge—not a full registered apprenticeship—the skills acquired significantly improve job prospects and prepare students for higher-wage apprenticeship pathways. Entry wages for groundhand and support roles in the Southeast typically range from approximately $40,000 to $55,000 per year, with strong potential for increases once apprenticeships or utility employment is secured.
Program Requirements
- Must be at least 18 years old
- High School Diploma or GED (preferred)
- Ability to perform physically demanding tasks
- Comfort working outdoors and at heights
- Willingness to pursue CDL or additional certification if required
Additional Program Details
- Boots and tools: typically not included
- Housing: not provided
- Safety certifications included as part of training
- Career services and employer referrals when available
Career Opportunities
- Groundhand positions with utility contractors
- Preparation for registered lineman apprenticeships
- Entry into powerline support roles with cooperatives and municipal utilities
- Skills foundation for long-term advancement in the electrical construction industry
We’re still collecting verified tuition and earnings data for this school. Check back soon — College Scorecard updates are made regularly by the U.S. Department of Education.
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