Electric Utility
Line Technician
Blue River
Business & Technology
Longview
Maple Woods
Penn Valley
mcckc.edu/linetech
Electric Utility
Line Technician
Our program will take your career to new heights.
Nearly half the power industry’s 400,000 workers are eligible for retirement by 2016! That means a lot of jobs will be opening up.
Today there are about 10,000 openings annually for electrical lineworkers, telecommunication lineworkers, operators, dispatches and other
related support positions.
Take advantage of this opportunity with our Electric Utility Line Technician program. You’ll build the skills employers in the industry want.
Possible positions include:
• Apprentice Lineman
• Apprentice Cable Splicer
• Utility Worker
• Communication Installer
• Substation Operator Electrician Apprentice
• Groundman
• Equipment Operator
• Dispatcher
• Meter Reader
• Meter Tester
• Substation Helper
• Wind Technician
Is this the career for you?
This program will open the door to a profession with a good income (median annual wage is more than $52,000) and job security. For
information about this career, visit our website: www.mcckc.edu/linetech or the Bureau of Labor and Statistics at www.bls.gov (Search “Line Installers and Repairers” and review related positions (job code 49-9050). Check the skills needed and other information at www.getintoenergy.
com. You must be prepared to travel, especially as an apprentice.
Our program
In our 12-month, 50-52-credit-hour program, held at the MCC-Business & Technology campus, you’ll learn a variety of tasks including:
• Climbing basic wood poles.
• Installing crossarms, hardware, transformers; working with three-phase and single-phase applications.
• Installing both primary and secondary conductors.
• Operating equipment, and using tools of the trade correctly.
Our training field offers overhead and underground power system simulations. Poles are changed out, lines are built, services and
equipment are installed. Most climbing heights will be from 35 to 45 feet. Material and equipment storage is provided.
You’ll learn to:
• Explain the basic electrical system. . .how electrical power is generated, transported and delivered to customers and how your job plays a role in this process.
• Demonstrate and understand the importance of safety and safe work practices working on or near energized lines and equipment.
• Perform and understand fundamental skills required for entry-level positions.
• Achieve certification of proficiency in certain key safety and operational related tasks.
• Demonstrate proficiency in a variety of commonly-performed tasks.
• Exhibit proper behavior, including safety habits, attitude and working with others.
Earn a certificate . . .or a degree
Upon completion of the 50-52-credit hour program and application for graduation, you will receive an official certificate and transcripts.
With an additional 18 credits, you can turn your certificate into an Associate In Applied Science degree!
Electric Utility
Line Technician
Admissions information
Minimum age and education
You must be 18 years old by the first day of the program term for which you have applied and be a high school graduate or GED equivalent.
Physical fitness
You must be in good physical condition. Strength, stamina and cardiovascular health will play a large part in your success. You may consider
joining a gym or starting an exercise regiment.
Health insurance
We recommend medical health insurance coverage during the entire term you are enrolled. Additional health insurance information will be
covered during orientation.
Driver’s license
During the program, you will be required to drive and operate various types of equipment. You will be trained in their safe operation. You must
show proof of a valid driver’s license or CDL. Having a Class-A Commercial Driver’s License (CDL) is recommended but not required.
DOT physical
You must pass a Department of Transportation physical. We provide this test after you are accepted in the program.
Academics
Academic classes are required, including math, English, computer skills and basic electrical theory.
Based on COMPASS or ACT scores, you must place into the
following MCC classes or successfully complete the required
prerequisite courses prior to beginning the program:
Reading – READ 100 or higher
English – ENGL 101
Math – MATH 103 or higher
Math and English classes will also help prepare you for industry
employment testing, which may include the Edison Electrical Institute (EEI)
and Construction & Skills Trade (CAST) testing.
mcckc.edu/linetech
Electric Utility
Line Technician
Program calendar
AUGUST–APRIL:
Applications will be accepted through April, but for
priority placement and the best chance of receiving
federal financial aid (for qualified students), submit your
application by the end of October.
Mail to:
Susan Blaser,
MCC-Business & Technology
1775 Universal Avenue
Kansas City, MO 64120
NOVEMBER - APRIL:
Interviews and applicant selection.
DECEMBER-MAY:
Applicants notified of acceptance.
If your COMPASS scores indicate developmental
education classes are required, you will have the
opportunity to enroll in the spring semester. If you’re
interested in the A.A.S., you can also take those required
classes before the program begins and graduate with
your Associate in Applied Science degree!
JUNE:
Program begins.
You can earn the certificate in three semesters, and the
Associate in Applied Science in four semesters. This
is based on full-time enrollment. With an additional 18
credits, you can turn your certificate into an Associate In
Applied Science degree.
Summer Term
Classes start in June
Classes end in July
Spring Term
Classes begin in January
Spring Break in March
Classes end in May
Fall Term
Classes begin in August
Thanksgiving holiday in November
Classes end in December
MAY: Graduation!
Electric Utility
Line Technician
Tuition and fees
Application, climbing tools and safety equipment, DOT physical.............................................................FREE
Hand tools (purchased through the program)….......................................................................................$150 to $180
Tuition, fees and books (estimate based on 2010 tuition at in-district rate) ...........................................$11,250
TOTAL………………………………………….............................................................................................$11,400-$11,430*
* cost subject to change dependent on geography of your residency.
Financial aid or scholarships may be available! April 1 deadline.
Don’t leave money on the table! Explore the many MCC choices to fund your education. See www.mcckc.edu/financialaid,
www.mcckc.edu/scholarships. Or contact Susan Blaser, 816.604.5613, about additional electrical utility scholarships.
Student Services
Student Services will assist you through the enrollment process and your academic career. Academic advisors help you select classes
and plan for graduation. We can also answer financial aid questions and assist you with the application process. Call 816.604.1000,
or see www.mcckc.edu/services for a complete list of student services.
Three services you should get to know:
Career Resource Center is a powerful way to make a job connection. Our placement coordinator is constantly in touch with many
employers. Call 816.604.5216.
Learning Resource Center offers free tutoring in math, writing and most other subjects. Assistance in study skills and techniques for
listening and note taking are also available.
Office of Campus Life and Leadership provides opportunities for you to participate in social, cultural, intellectual, recreational,
governmental and community service programs and events. Stop by Student Services for more information.
As an MCC student, you’ll have access to any library, computer lab, lunchroom at any MCC campus. Our main location is the
MCC-Business & Technology campus.
mcckc.edu/linetech
Electric Utility
Line Technician
Courses
Lineworkers courses:
LINE 104 Climbing Skills You will gain the knowledge of the proper care of climbing tools, and the mastering of climbing wood structures. Upon completion of this course
you will also be able to determine the proper aspects of pole inspection, and be able to recognize the hazards of climbing An introduction to
aerial pole framing is included in this discipline. 100% field environment.
LINE 105 Electrical Distribution Systems This course will give you an overview of the types of electrical distribution systems in use. It is a comprehensive class with real-world
applications, operations, power conversion, control, measurement and quality issues. Transmission and distribution structures and the power
grid will also be covered. LINE 106 Safety and Accident Prevention
You will gain the knowledge of the hazards associated with electrical distribution systems. You will be able to administer the proper climbing
techniques, understand and follow Safety Rules and Safe Work Practices, successful completion of Cardiopulmonary Resuscitation (CPR) and
First Aid, which will enable you to be certified in Red Cross First Aid and CPR certification. You will learn OSHA rules and regulations associated
with this industry, reporting and the penalties that pertain to these regulations. LINE 210 Pole Framing and Construction Specifications This will give you a working knowledge of the construction specifications following industry standards. This will include the aspects of 2,400;
7,200/7,620; volt construction. You will be able to recognize the different types of materials used for the different types of construction by sight
and definition. You will be required to demonstrate the working specification knowledge both in an aerial and a ground situation as well as
installation and repair of conductors, guy assemblies, cross arms, and insulators. You will also be introduced to the different sizes and types of
overhead and underground conductors. Basic line staking principles and NESC clearances will be included. 70% field environment.
LINE 215 Setting and Replacing Poles
You will learn the basic principles in setting and replacing poles. Emphasis on the proper use of cover-up material and vehicle grounding
practices. Temporary pole supports, rigging and worksite hazard protection will also be recognized. 90% field environment.
LINE 237 Transformer Theory and Installation
You will gain a thorough knowledge of transformer theory and installation. Single-phase and three-phase configurations with different types of
connections will be included. Other units covered will include over voltage and over current protection, equipment grounding, cut-out protection,
proper cover-up techniques, lightning arrestor application and installation and pole framing. Basic troubleshooting practices and current and
potential transformers will also be included. 70% field environment.
LINE 241 Conductor Installations, Service and Metering
You will gain a thorough knowledge of single- and three-phase watt-hour meters; meter locations; and the different types of copper and
aluminum conductors. You will also gain practical experience in the sizing, installation, stringing, sagging, dead-ending and splicing of service
conductors. You will be exposed to instrument metering; temporary meter locations; compression sleeves; connectors. Also included: strap
hoists, chain hoists, sag charts and tables, pulling grips and mechanical jumpers, disciplines on meter tampering, power theft, proper grounding
techniques and safe work practices. 70% field environment.
LINE 250 Fusing, Substation and Voltage Regulation
You will become familiar with the different types and methods of system coordination, substations, capacitors, voltage regulators and autotransformers. A working knowledge of oil reclosures, sectionalizers and the application of fuses will also be gained. Practical experience in the
grounding, inspection, maintenance and operation of basic substations will be expanded. 70% field environment.
LINE 251 Installation and Troubleshooting Underground Distribution Systems
You will get a working knowledge of the different types of underground distribution systems, identify the types of cable used in underground
distribution, describe proper cable installation procedures, demonstrate proper cable preparation techniques using manufacturers’ specifications
for splicing and terminating cable, list safe work procedures and demonstrate the proper techniques for isolation and grounding underground
cable sections. 80% field environment.
LINE 252 Advanced Climbing Skills
You will continue the mastering of climbing wood structures. You will be taught pole top rescue methods. You will learn more complex transformer
connections and perform these tasks off the pole. You will work at higher heights/longer periods on the pole, learn specialized equipment and
how it operates in the field, and how this equipment relates to correcting power factor and other issues facing utilities in relation to quality issues.
Upon completion of this course you will be able to recognize the hazards of climbing, determine WYE and DELTA connections on a 3-phase
bank and explain the different equipment that can be used in the field to correct voltage issues.
100% field environment.
Electric Utility
Line Technician
Other courses:
Most large utilities require applicants to successfully pass EEI testing and CAST, where math and reading comprehension is crucial.
OSHA 10-hour and Red Cross First Aid/CPR Certification
CSIS 115 Introduction to Microcomputer Applications
ENGL 101 Composition & Reading I
INTE 110 Industrial Electrical Principles
INTE 124 Employment Strategies for Technical Careers
MATH 103R Technical Mathematics I with Review
MATH 104 Technical Mathematics II
mcckc.edu/linetech
Electric Utility
Line Technician
Program requirements
Your commitment
You will be accepted into our program because of the desire and commitment you demonstrated during the selection process. Our students
continue to strive to be the best they can be and to set themselves above other applicants in the industry. They pull together to work as a team,
assisting each other to ensure no one falls behind.
Academics and competencies
You must achieve a 70% or better average in each required LINE course. You must pass all field competencies.
Grading
You will be graded on a pass-fail system for the field activities. This will be determined by three instructors. All quizzes and written tests will be
graded as follows.
A = 90% - 100%
B = 80% - 89%
C = 70% - 79%
D = 69% - 61%
F = 60% and Less Your week
Your typical week will include academic and field learning activities Monday, Wednesday and Friday from 7:30 a.m. to 3:00 p.m. with a one halfhour lunch break. On Tuesday and Thursday, class time may vary based on what general education and certificate required classes are needed.
If these requirements are met before you start the program, you will have Tuesday and Thursday off!
Your responsibilities
You must demonstrate:
• Professional behavior
• Ability to interact with others orally and in writing
• Ability to work as a team player and individually
• Critical thinking
• Ability to Prioritize tasks and make appropriate decisions.
• Ability to Retain information and show continued progress.
• Ability to Correct any deficiencies in performance identified
by instructors.
• Demonstrate a personal commitment to safety.
Any student not performing or following safety rules
and work procedures will fail the program.
Electric Utility
Line Technician
Course policies
Attendance: You are expected to attend every class, lab and field trip. You are allowed two excused absences. Upon the third absence, you will
be withdrawn from the class. If you are going to be late or miss class, you must notify Susan Blaser, program coordinator, at 816.405.4756.
You need to be on time for classes. Two times being late equals one absence. If you decide to drop a course, it is your responsibility to fill out the
paperwork. Notify Susan of any absence or attendance concerns. The MCC district attendance policy (7.35020 DR) is followed in this class. Code of conduct: You are expected to conduct yourself in a manner consistent with the educational purpose of this institution. If you do not, you
may be subject to college disciplinary action.
Late assignments: Late assignments are not accepted.
Homework is due at the beginning of class and assignments not received will be given a zero. Exams: Both field proficiency and written exams are given. There will also be progress evaluations in the field. Quizzes may be given as
needed.
Computer use: Computer use must be for acceptable research and educational purposes only. MCC’s policy on computer use is at http://web.
mcckc.edu/asp/infoex/technology/MCCPolicy.pdf
Academic honesty: MCC has a code governing ethical behavior in regard to plagiarism. You must submit your own work. If you do not, the
grade for the assignment will be an “F” and there may be additional repercussions.
Smoking policy: MCC buildings are “Tobacco Free” inside and out.
Electronic devices: Electronic devices are turned off during class. Leave them in your car for lab (field) work. If you have a disability: In compliance with the Americans with Disabilities Act, MCC makes every attempt to provide equal access for persons
with disabilities. If you need an accommodation due to a disability, please contact Student Services at 816.604.5200.
Sexual harassment: Sexual harassment is prohibited by federal and state law and MCC policy. If you feel you have been subjected to sexual
harassment as a student, contact the Dean of students.
Inclement weather: School closing due to inclement weather will be broadcast on the major area television and radio stations. Also, a voicemail
message will be left on the main switchboard number 816.604-5200, a text message will be sent, a portal notification on MyMCCKC, and a
message on the website. The MCC-Business & Technology campus is closed if it or the Metropolitan Community College system is announced
as closed for the day.
Complaints: If you have a complaint about classroom instruction, you should follow this order:
1. Discuss the problem with the instructor(s) involved.
2. If the matter is not resolved, consult Penny Tepesch, division chairperson, 816.604.5620.
3. If the proposed resolution is not satisfactory, confer with the Dean of Instruction.
4. If the matter is still not resolved, contact the Dean of Instruction to appoint a grievance committee to handle the matter.
If you have complaints about matters other than classroom instruction, such as Americans with Disabilities Act accommodations, consult with the
Dean of Students. mcckc.edu/linetech
Electric Utility
Line Technician
Safety
Lineworkers must be “our brother’s keeper”. You are responsible to watch your “pole buddy’s” back, and it is everyone’s responsibility to make
sure everyone is working safely.
Employers have little use for risk-takers. They provide employees with safety training, tail-gate briefing, improved safety equipment and tools to
ensure they go home the same way they arrived at work.
This is the same principle we use in our program. Safety is our number one priority. You will learn to meet or exceed industry standards in all
aspects of safe work practices.
For example, you must wear your hardhat and safety glasses in the pole field area and a long-sleeved cotton shirt while working on poles. Stay
in the area designated for your group. And no horse play.
Repeated safety violations will cause you to be withdrawn from the class.
Tools and supplies
Orientation
After acceptance into the program, you will attend an orientation meeting where you will be fitted for climbing gear and take your DOT physical
and drug test.
You’ll tour the training “pole yard” and the MCC-BTC campus. Student services staff will answer questions you may have. At this time, you will be
required to purchase your hand tools. This is through a third-party vendor. The price is typically between $150-$180. The option to buy additional
“approved” tools at a discounted price will also be available.
NOTE: If you are not 18 or older at the time of this meeting, a parent or guardian will have to be present to sign consent forms. Clothing
You are required to wear a long-sleeved shirt at all times when climbing or working in areas that may cause hazard (poison ivy) to exposed skin.
We recommend clothing be 100% cotton (which is required in the industry.) Long-sleeved sweatshirts and tee-shirts are acceptable. Buttondown, heavier shirts are preferred. When not climbing, you may wear a short sleeve shirt. No cut-off T-shirts are allowed.
Jeans are recommended to offer a higher level of protection.
You will need outer clothing for fall and winter. In the Kansas City area, we typically experience temperatures in the 20’s and 30’s during winter
and have had days drop into the teens during class. Layer your clothing for the best protection against the cold.
Boots
ALL BOOTS MUST BE STEEL OR REINFORCED TOE
There is a wide variety of lineman’s climbing boots.
Be prepared. Prices are going to vary from a little over $100 to $450. We will be spending extended periods of time on the pole and you will want
the best support and protection you can provide your feet!
Boot design
When looking for your boot make sure you know what you are looking for. Logger boots are not the same as lineman boots.
A lineman climbing boot will have a steel arch support that runs across the arch area in the sole of the boot. Make sure the boot you are
purchasing has this feature. If not, it is not a lineman climbing boot. You need a boot that offers ankle support, so buy nothing shorter than 10
inches. Taller boots offer additional protection. We recommended 16”.
Soles of the boot will vary. You will be working around wet soil conditions– snow and mud. If you opt for a boot with large tread, you will pick up
and carry the mud with you. Try to purchase a boot with smaller tread.
Electric Utility
Line Technician
Brands
The West Coast (Wesco) boot offers good support for your ankles and arch. www.westcoastshoe.com.
Halls also offers a very good boot that is one of the favorites in the industry. www.hallssafety.com.
Several of our students like Hoffman boots. Their dual steel shank system is different from than industry standard.
www.hoffmanboots.com. Hoffman also offers a discount for students.
Check out Wesco, Hoffman, Whites, Red Wing, Halls and Carolinas.
Hoffman
·Black, Semi Lace-to-Toe with Steel Toe, 16”
#Vibram or Claw-log Sole
7 –8oz. Oil tanned leather
·Dual Steel Shank System
·Removable contour cushion insole is added to provide extra comfort and support
·Leather 10 - 10-1/2 iron (.219” thick)
Hoffman offers a student discount.
Red Wing
•Full Grain, Water Resistant Leather Upper
•Heat, Oil, and Slip Resistant Vibram® Outsole
•Electrical Hazard Rated
•Leather Welt Construction
•ASTM approved I/75 C/75
Wesco
Black, Semi Lace-to-Toe with Steel Toe, 16”
#100 Vibram Sole
7 oz. full-grain leather
·Leather side flap
·Non-corrosive, ribbed, slightly arched steel shank for comfort and maximum support
·Leather 10 - 10-1/2 iron (.219” thick) half-slip for added support in the arch
·Recessed metal heel breastplate (offers protection from climbing spurs)
·Removable false tongue
Halls
16” Black Lace-up EH Steel Toe
Puncture Resistant Pole Climber Boot.
- Goodyear Leather Storm Welt with Ski Wedge Inch-wide 3 Rib Steel Shank
- Cambrelle Vamp Lining
- Removable Orthotic Body Cushion Insoles
- Vibram Yellow Plug “Tacoma” logger outsole
mcckc.edu/linetech
MCC-Business &
Technology Campus
Electric Utility
Line Technician
Program
Conference
Annex
CONFERENCE
ANNEX
NORTH ANNEX
EXHIBIT HALL
TECHNOLOGY CENTER
CAMPUS
CENTER
CAMPUS CENTER
ENTRANCE
TECHNOLOGY CENTER
(OR EXHIBIT HALL)
ENTRANCE
EXHIBIT HALL
TECHNOLOGY CENTER
• Business & Learning Solutions
• Manufacturing, Drafting
• Engineering Technology
• Robotics/Assessment
• OSHA Education Center
• Environmental Health & Safety
CAMPUS CENTER
• Enrollment Services
• Bookstore
• HVAC/R
• Industrial Technologies
• Electronics
• Welding
• CISCO Networking
Susan Blaser
816.604.1000
E-mail: susan.blaser@mcckc.edu
MCC-Business & Technology
1775 Universal Ave.
Kansas City, MO 64120
mcckc.edu/linetech