Yavapai College – Lineman Training Program

Yavapai College – Lineman Training Program (Prescott, AZ)

Program Information

Yavapai College offers a highly regarded Lineworker Training Program through its Workforce Development and Community Education division, specifically designed to prepare students for careers in the electrical utility and powerline construction industries. This program blends classroom instruction with extensive hands-on training to ensure participants gain the technical skills, safety awareness, and professional readiness needed for entry-level roles such as groundhand, utility support technician, or a competitive candidate for registered lineman apprenticeships with utilities and contractors across the Western U.S.

The curriculum begins with fundamental concepts including basic electricity, power distribution system fundamentals, OSHA safety standards, pole climbing basics, rigging techniques, and handline procedures. As students progress, they gain practical experience working with lineworker tools, equipment, and jobsite scenarios that simulate real utility construction environments. Yavapai’s training emphasis on safety, proper technique, and industry best practices ensures students are prepared not only to perform essential tasks but also to understand utility job expectations from day one.

Yavapai College’s program is developed in collaboration with utility partners and community employers to align with current workforce needs. This connection increases the likelihood of job placement and helps graduates build relationships with potential employers. In addition to technical instruction, students receive career readiness support including resume development and interview preparation, positioning them for success in both apprenticeship applications and direct hire opportunities.

Program Length

• Typically spans several weeks to a few months, depending on session offering
• Includes combined classroom study and hands-on field labs
• Courses offered periodically based on demand and workforce needs

Hands-On Training

Participants in the Yavapai College Lineman Program receive practical training in:

• Pole climbing fundamentals and elevated work safety
• Worksite rigging and handline techniques
• Basic electrical distribution theory and utility construction practices
• Powerline equipment familiarity and safe operation
• OSHA safety compliance and jobsite readiness

Wages & Career Outlook

Graduates of Yavapai’s lineman training are well-prepared for entry-level groundhand positions and often go on to pursue registered apprenticeship programs or direct employment with utilities and contractors. Entry wages for groundhand and utility support roles in Arizona and surrounding states typically range from approximately $40,000 to $60,000 per year, with substantial increases as individuals enter apprenticeships and progress toward journey-level status. Lineworker careers generally offer strong long-term earning potential and job security in the utility sector.

Program Requirements

• Must be at least 18 years old
• High School Diploma, GED, or equivalent
• Physical ability to perform outdoor tasks, climb poles, and work at heights
• Comfort working in varied weather conditions
• Willingness to pursue additional certifications such as CDL if required by employers

Additional Program Details

• Boots and tools typically not included
• Housing not provided
• Safety certifications and workplace readiness instruction included
• Career guidance and industry networking support available

Career Opportunities

• Groundhand and utility support positions with powerline contractors and cooperatives
• Preparation for registered electrical lineman apprenticeships
• Entry into utility construction work with municipal and investor-owned utilities
• Foundation for long-term advancement toward journeyman lineman roles

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