Utility Workforce Reaches New Heights

In May 2019, Wisconsin Indianhead Technical College will officially graduate the first students from the Utility Construction Technician program. A shortage of skilled workers in the field prompted Chase Lapcinski, Power & Communication Contractors Association board member, to initiate a new training at WITC. The effort to attract trade and supervision staff into the underground telecom and electric construction marketing is accurately titled, “Who Will do the Work?” The goal for the training addresses two challenges faced in the industry: a) to hire graduates with a known and consistent set of skills and b) to screen students during the training rather than in employment who are not comfortable with pole climbing or underground construction requirements.

The PCCA Board of Directors and Continuum Capital identified geographic areas where labor markets are particularly challenging and pinpointed the types of labor needed. The group initially selected Central Missouri and West Central Wisconsin to gain initial support and pilot the “Who Will Do the Work?” program. The partnership between PCCA and WITC seemed like a natural fit. The college has a strong reputation for providing skilled workers in the broadband/telecommunications industry.

"PUSH, Inc. is pleased to partner with Wisconsin Indianhead Technical College in the crafting of a new program, Utility Construction Technician,” said Garin Mayer, business development manager at Push, Inc. “This program is designed to give individuals the training they need to enter the growing utility service construction market."

With the support of PCCA, the Utility Construction Technician program will start in the fall of 2018. The program will introduce an array of utility construction practices, installed using the various methods within both underground and overhead methods. Students will take the theory learned in the classroom and implement the theories with real-world situations. One example of a hands-on lesson, students will use horizontal directional boring to install conduit under existing structures.

Graduates will understand basic electricity, print reading, facility locating and operation of equipment. Upon successful completion, graduates will have earned 30 credits, a technical diploma and a CDL class A permit. Graduates will be prepared to work in construction positions with owners and contractors in the telecom market.

Program-Specific Requirements

Complete application form
Be 18 years of age
Provide a copy of CDL Class A permit with air brakes
Provide verification of valid driver's license (a DUI or poor driving record may impact your employability)
Provide verification of DOT physical exam and pass drug test
Meet all Federal Motor Carrier Safety Regulations (FMCSR) requirements