Orangeburg-Calhoun Technical College recently celebrated the first graduates of its electrical lineman program with a hands-on showcase that highlighted the skills students gained throughout the course.
The inaugural group of students – Triston Chambers, Nathan Cook, Ahamard Govan and Josue Linares-Deras – completed rigorous, real-world training designed to prepare them for high-demand careers in the electrical utility industry. From climbing poles to working with high-voltage systems, students demonstrated the technical knowledge and physical discipline required for success in the field.
Instructor Don Meetze, who has more than two decades of industry experience, praised the group’s performance and growth.
“They did great. I’m really proud of them,” Meetze said. “They picked things up quickly and really showed what they’re capable of. Watching them grow and gain confidence has been one of the most rewarding parts of teaching this program.”
Meetze said the program is designed to mirror real-world expectations. Students not only learn technical skills, but also develop a strong understanding of safety, teamwork and responsibility.
“This is a challenging field, but it’s also very rewarding,” he said. “After storms, when you help restore power and see how much people appreciate it, that’s a great feeling. That’s when you realize this is more than a job – it’s a career that makes a difference.”
OCtech’s electrical lineman program reflects the college’s commitment to workforce development and its mission of preparing students for in-demand careers through hands-on training.
Industry partners worked closely with the college to ensure that training aligns with the skills and safety expectations of utility employers across South Carolina. Dominion Energy donated and installed utility poles, transformers, wire, a rescue manikin and other materials to establish an on-campus pole farm at OCtech, giving students access to realistic, hands-on training environments that mirror industry standards.
“Energy will continue to play a critical role in South Carolina’s future, and OCtech is excellently positioned to develop the next generation of lineworkers across the region,” said Brandon Ashley, vice president of transmission and delivery for Dominion Energy South Carolina. “We’re excited for these graduates. They have worked hard to earn their certification and now have the opportunity to have a fulfilling, well-paying career while serving their neighbors.”
Program support and donations also came from the Orangeburg Department of Public Utilities, Tri-County Electric Cooperative, Border States and W.R. Daniel & Associates Inc.
Triston Chambers said his interest in linework began years ago.
“After graduating, I joined the Marine Reserves,” he said. “I was still trying to figure out my path, but I kept coming back to linework.”
When OCtech launched the program, Chambers saw it as the right opportunity at the right time.
“I was planning to go out of state for training, but when this program opened up, everything just lined up,” he said. “It really felt like it was meant to be.”
Throughout the program, Chambers said he gained a deeper appreciation for the complexity of the work.
“There’s so much more to it than people realize – the engineering, the equipment, and how everything works together,” he said. “It gives you a whole new level of respect for the job.”
Chambers credited the program’s hands-on approach and dedicated instruction with preparing him and his classmates for the next step.
“Mr. Don is very involved and makes sure we understand everything,” he said. “We’ve started applying for jobs, and we’re getting ready to take our CDL training. I feel confident moving forward.”
For Chambers’ father, Garren Chambers, the moment was especially meaningful.
“He’s wanted to be a lineman since he was little,” Chambers said. “He looked up to people who made careers out of it, and that stuck with him.”
A veteran himself, Garren Chambers reflected on the importance of being present for this milestone.
“I served 20 years, so I missed a lot of time with him growing up,” he said. “Now I get to be here and watch him take these steps. It means a lot. I’m proud of him for sticking with something he’s wanted for so long.”
He also noted the dedication required to complete the program.
“He’s out here all day, every day, putting in the work,” Chambers said. “That’s what it takes. He’s on a good path, and I’m excited to see where it takes him.”
Meetze said the program is already making an impact.
“The industry is ready for these students,” he said. “Once they finish their final steps, they’ll be in a great position to start their careers.”
For more information about OCtech’s Electrical Lineman program 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.