The premier event for the powerline technician program at St. Clair College is helping students show off their skills to potential future employers.
More than 100 Powerline students took part in the annual Powerline Rodeo at the college’s National Powerline Training Centre on Bear Line Road in Chatham on Thursday. Each student competed in various events including pole top rescue, ring the bell, climbing relay, don’t break the egg, and installing storm guys.
“This gives them a chance to demonstrate all of the skills that they’ve developed over the two years. They can showcase their talents in front of utilities, contractors, telecommunication companies… they’re all looking at their future employees,” said past program coordinator Doug Bendall.
The college’s Powerline Technician program has grown exponentially since it was established 14 years ago. According to Bendall, the program’s first year saw 28 students enrolled and there are now 164 taking part in the two-year program.
The program draws in students from across the province, including 19-year-old Natassjieka Whyte, who is currently in her second year. The Aurora native said the program is very welcoming.
“A lot of the teachers have retired and come here to teach us, so all the knowledge they’re [imparting] to us, we’re going to learn that out in the field and we’re going to use that in out the field,” she said.
Within a year of graduating, Bendall said 65-70 per cent of students in the powerline program are able to find employment in a related field.
