Northwest Lineman College
Trade Schools and Apprenticeships in Idaho / Northwest Lineman College
Northwest Lineman College – Meridian, ID
Program Information
Northwest Lineman College (NLC) is a nationally recognized training institution specializing in power delivery, electrical linework, telecommunications, and natural gas technology. The school is widely considered one of the top lineman training programs in the country, known for its rigorous hands-on curriculum, industry partnerships, and high job placement rates. The Electrical Lineworker Program prepares students for careers in the electric utility industry, focusing on power line construction, high-voltage systems, and electrical grid maintenance.
Training takes place in a realistic outdoor field environment where students learn pole climbing, overhead and underground line installation, transformer theory, conductor tying, equipment operation, and electrical safety. Classroom instruction covers AC/DC theory, circuit analysis, system protection, grounding, and OSHA safety standards. Graduates are well-prepared to begin apprenticeship roles with utility companies, contractors, cooperatives, and municipal power agencies.
Program Length
- Program Duration: Approximately 15 weeks (full-time Electrical Lineworker Program)
- Credential: Lineworker Certificate + preparation for apprenticeship placement
- Optional CDL training and certifications available depending on campus
Hands-On Training
Students receive extensive practical training in:
- Pole climbing, pole-top rescue, and tower work
- Installation of overhead and underground distribution systems
- Transformer wiring, metering, and system troubleshooting
- Rigging, knot tying, and proper use of climbing and safety gear
- Operation of bucket trucks and utility equipment (campus-dependent)
- High-voltage safety procedures and grounding techniques
- Construction standards used by utility and contracting companies nationwide
Program Requirements
- High School Diploma or GED
- Ability to work outdoors in demanding physical and weather conditions
- Pass a Department of Transportation (DOT) physical
- Meet NLC’s physical performance requirements (climbing, lifting, endurance)
Certifications & Career Opportunities
- Preparation for entry into electrical lineworker apprenticeships
- Opportunities in utility companies, electrical cooperatives, and line construction contractors
- Training aligned with industry expectations for high-voltage lineworkers
- Optional certifications such as First Aid/CPR, Climbing Certification, and Commercial Driver’s License (CDL)
Location
Located in Meridian, Idaho, Northwest Lineman College offers a large training campus designed to replicate real utility field conditions. With additional campuses across the U.S., NLC collaborates closely with industry employers to maintain strong job placement support and ensure graduates meet national workforce standards for the power delivery industry.
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