CFCC Electrical Lineworker Program Celebrates its Tenth Graduating Class with Three Females and 12 Veterans

Wilmington, NC — The Cape Fear Community College Electrical Lineworker Training program will graduate its tenth class Monday, March 15, 2021. Forty-one students will graduate, including three female graduates and twelve veterans, bringing the total number of graduates to 342 since program implementation.

“My brother-in-law completed this program at CFCC when it first began, and he loved every minute of it,” said Kily McGee. “Seeing his success and all he has accomplished in two years since then, I knew it was something I definitely wanted to do. Now, having almost completed the program myself, this has been one of the most rewarding things I have done in my life. I am the proudest I could be.”

CFCC’s Electrical Lineworker program attracts students and veterans from all over North Carolina and beyond. “I was in the army for about six years. I loved every second of it, but I was ready for something new,” said Ethan Thompson. “I’ve always been an adventure-seeker and wanted a career that would challenge me. After discovering this program and doing my research, it seemed like the perfect fit.”

The 10-week training program teaches students to set and climb poles; install cross arms, hardware, lines, and transformers; use tools and equipment of the trade through field experience; overhead and underground construction practices; electric theory and practice; safety and teamwork; and commercial driving.

“Climbing the poles and operating the equipment can be challenging and nerve-racking, but I have grown so much and built up my confidence during the past 10-weeks knowing all I have accomplished,” said Taylor Pete.

“The instructors have gone above and beyond in their job to help us succeed. I can go up to any of the instructors and ask questions,” said Treavor Peck. “They have so many years of experience; I love feeding off their knowledge and learning all I can from them.”

Following the ceremony, the graduates will participate in interviews with employers including VOLT Power, Pike Electric, MasTec, Utility Lines Construction Services (ULCS), and River City Construction.

“This program has been challenging at times but so worth it. I was ready for a career, and I am excited to see where it takes me. There are so many opportunities available once you open the door in this field,” said Diane Vowles.

“My plan is to get my foot in the door with a company and start in transmission or distribution, and long-term, I would love to get into helicopter linework,” said Thompson.

“This is not a job you pick just to pay the bills. You have to have a passion for it. It’s long days, hard work, and not for the faint of heart,” said McGee. “It can be very rewarding. Throughout my life, I always looked for a challenge like this. This program is helping me find a place in the world and setting up my family and me for long-term success.”

“It’s so rewarding to see these students take what they’ve learned here and step into a great career,” said CFCC President Jim Morton. “Students who successfully complete this program and continue into this field will not only help to provide a vital service but will also have the opportunity to earn a great salary to support themselves and their families.”

The next class with available space begins March 29, 2021.

To learn more about the Electrical Lineworker Training program, visit cfcc.edu/lineworker