The demand for qualified, skilled workers is high, and competition to attract these individuals is intense.  While some employers are vying to fill open positions, others are looking beyond their current need and connecting with high-quality training programs, including registered apprenticeships and pre-apprenticeships, to ensure they have a pipeline of skilled workers to meet their future demands.

The Alabama Office of Apprenticeship (AOA) has partnered with Calhoun Community College to certify their pre-apprenticeship lineworker program, which creates an opportunity for possible employment through Huntsville Utilities’ registered apprenticeship. Pre-apprenticeships are designed to prepare individuals to enter and succeed in a registered apprenticeship and ultimately a career.

In just 7 weeks, a participant can complete Calhoun’s lineworker pre-apprenticeship training and have the opportunity to continue as an apprentice in a high-wage, high-demand career. The program trains students on the basics of climbing, driving, framing and construction to develop Day 1 competency on the job site. “Calhoun’s Pre-Apprentice Lineworker program gives students the confidence to start an amazing career and impact their family for generations” says Houston Blackwood, Director of Calhoun Workforce Solutions. “Huntsville Utilities is excited about this partnership to provide another possible avenue for skilled workers to gain full time employment” says Dr. Harry Hobbs, Vice President Employee Engagement Huntsville Utilities.

“Calhoun has partnered with local business and industry to ensure their program meets the needs of those employers and creates opportunities for their students to enter promising careers,” said Josh Laney, Director of the Alabama Office of Apprenticeship. “We are excited to recognize this outstanding program as one of the first Certified Pre-Apprenticeships in Alabama.”

The Calhoun Community College Pre-Apprentice Lineworker course provides the necessary skills and qualifications desired by utility companies and contractors in the North Central Alabama region. They are governed by an advisory board which sets the content, length, and cost of the program. Graduates benefit from a 90% or better hire rate in the field.  For more information, visit https://calhoun.edu/workforce-solutions/pre-apprentice-lineworker-program/