Orangeburg-Calhoun Technical College has partnered with Dominion Energy to launch a new electrical lineman training program at the college.
“This program was created to meet a growing regional workforce need and to strengthen the pipeline for skilled utility workers,” said Dr. Stephanie Dauway, OCtech’s associate vice president of academic and workforce development.
Dominion Energy donated and installed utility poles, transformers, wire, a rescue manikin and other materials to establish an on-campus pole farm, giving students access to realistic, hands-on training that mirrors industry standards.
Company representatives also helped guide program design so that the training aligns with the skills and safety expectations of utility employers across South Carolina.
“This collaboration exemplifies how industry-college partnerships can accelerate workforce development, expand training capacity and provide direct pathways to high-quality jobs,” Dauway said. “Dominion Energy’s investment ensures that students can develop the technical competencies and confidence needed to enter a high-demand career field immediately upon graduation.”
OCtech’s first electrical lineman training cohort began January 26. In addition to pole climbing, rescue techniques and equipment operation fundamentals, students in the 12-week program will earn OSHA-10, CPR and first aid certifications. An additional four weeks will be spent on commercial driver’s license training. Graduates will leave prepared for entry-level positions in the utility and energy sectors.
“Lineworkers play a critical, frontline role in maintaining safe, reliable electric service to customers across the Palmetto State,” said Brandon Ashley, vice president of transmission and delivery for Dominion Energy South Carolina. “For those students who rise to meet the challenge, it’s also an opportunity for a rewarding, well-paying career. We are excited for this new partnership with OCtech, which has the expertise and facilities to provide rigorous training for the next generation of energy workers in the heart of our great state.”
For more information or to apply, visit www.octech.edu or contact the college’s Continuing Education and Workforce Development office at 803.535.1236 or conted@octech.edu.