Power Lineman School Now Offered in Escanaba | News, Sports, Jobs

Noah Johnson Daily Press Guests at the open house at the North Country Heavy Equipment School in Escanaba had the chance to take a ride in the bucket truck and climb 50-foot surveys Thursday.

ESCANABA — The public now has the opportunity to train to become a lineman in Escanaba. The North Country Heavy Equipment School held an open house Thursday to showcase what students can learn at the new North Country Electric Line School.

The school also offers a heavy equipment program as well as CDL training through Midwest Truck Driving School, but now has a dedicated school for powerline technicians.

A four-year project in the making, the power line school will welcome its first class on August 19.

School Principal Josh Barron was delighted to host this open day and the turnout did not disappoint.

“This is the kind of event that kicks off this program, and to actually see it come to fruition after four years is beyond exciting,” Josh said.

The school pulled out all the stops for guests, including a pole climbing activity, bucket truck rides, heavy equipment and logging truck demonstrations.

“It really gives people the opportunity to climb poles or ride in a bucket truck or learn how to operate heavy equipment and get people interested in that profession,” Josh said.

The job is intense, requiring approximately 16 weeks and 640 hours to complete the full training.

“This business is a very fast-paced business. It’s a very active job, there’s a lot going on. There are many great opportunities in this profession, but it is a difficult profession. ” said Josh.

He explained that this job requires working in all kinds of weather conditions, operating heavy equipment and, most importantly, not being afraid of heights.

“That’s what it takes to be a good lineman,” ” said Josh.

According to a brochure distributed at the event, the powerline program is the only program in the Midwest to also offer heavy equipment training, log loader swamp mat handling and Class A CDL license training integrated into the curriculum.

Director of Admissions Kyle Barron said people have been asking for lineman school for some time and he’s glad the program is available now.

“We’re really excited to see this happen. I mean, this class filled up almost immediately, I mean within the first week or two,” Kyle said.

Josh added that the community as well as the city are very supportive of the school.

“The community has been great, the city of Escanaba was there (and) they donated a lot of equipment and pull-ups and all kinds of things and they’ve been a big help in getting this program started,” ” said Josh.

Guests were also treated to a meal of burgers, brats, chips and soda, as well as the chance to win a prize in a raffle.

To apply, individuals must have a high school diploma or equivalent. No prior experience is required, but individuals must have a passion for the field as well as a commitment to safety. Training and subsequent careers require individuals to be physically fit to climb poles and operate heavy machinery.

If you are unsure about the program, contact the admissions office to schedule a tour of the facilities and equipment before enrolling.

To learn more about North Country Electrical Line School and other programs, visit ncheschool.com.

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