Program Overview
The Powerline Technician program prepares students for a career in power distribution. It will provide in-depth knowledge and skills that will allow students to understand the installation, operation, and maintenance of the distribution system. Some of the principles taught will be electricity fundamentals and transformer theory, with reference to the distribution standards. In addition, there is an introduction to the design of distribution systems, and CAD design. The skills required for the operation of boom-equipped vehicles, powerline rigging, and fall protection will be taught, with an emphasis on safety.
Program Highlights
- Comprehensive outdoor pole field lab for hands-on learning.
- Students gain hands-on practical skills coupled with the theoretical knowledge required to become a powerline technician graduate heading toward an apprenticeship.
- Students will learn the technique of pole climbing and the operation of Radial Boom Derrick (RBD) and double bucket trucks.
- Pole top rescue, bucket escape and fall arrest are some of the overhead techniques learned along with underground installation, transformer operation and installation.
- Students will build overhead lines throughout the program, applying their skills in actual line-construction projects.
- Students will develop their problem-solving, team building, and critical thinking skills.
Career Opportunities
Graduates of the Powerline Technician Program find employment with electric power companies, public municipal utility companies, electrical construction firms and contractors, equipment suppliers, and heavy engineering and construction firms.
Admission Requirements
OSSD with the majority of courses at the College (C), University (U), University/College (M) or Open (O) level plus:
- Grade 12 English (C), (U) or (M)
- Grade 12 Math (C), (U) or (M) (MCT4C is highly recommended)
It is highly recommended that applicants successfully complete Grade 12 Physics (C) or (U) to be successful in this program.
Mature students - See Admission Procedures for details.
Important Information
This is a HIGH-INTEREST program and has the potential to become oversubscribed. Applicants are advised to apply before February 1st. See Admission Procedures for details.
Requirements to Become an Apprentice
For a Powerline Technician graduate to become registered as an apprentice, a graduate must meet the following IHSA (Infrastructure Health & Safety Association) requirements:
- Graduate with a minimum 3.0 GPA.
- Must obtain a sixteen-week placement with an employer
If a graduate meets the above criteria, the individual is eligible to receive their Level 1 apprenticeship schooling delivered at St. Clair College Chatham National Powerline Training Centre by IHSA. (Infrastructure Health & Safety Association).
Courses
The curriculum below is for incoming students:
Program Physical Demands Analysis
Program Vocational Learning Outcomes
Powerline Technician Program (Ontario College Diploma) (MTCU Code 55610)
The successful completion of this program will enable the graduate to:
- Analyze, translate, and produce electrical drawings and other related documents and graphics related to the installation, removal and maintenance of power line and underground distribution systems.
- Analyze and solve routine technical problems related to electrical technology and power distribution by applying the principles of mathematics and science.
- Calibrate, use and maintain instrumentation and test equipment to ensure proper performance.
- Use a variety of troubleshooting techniques to identify problems with overhead and underground powerline equipment and systems.
- Apply health and safety standards and best practices for self and others in the workplace.
- Prepare and maintain records and documentation systems following established procedures to ensure project completion according to work plans.
- Perform tasks related to powerline applications in accordance with relevant law, policies, procedures, standards, regulations and ethical principles.
- Select and apply electrical cabling requirements to implement proper system grounding and operation for a variety of powerline applications.
- Use computer software and electronic technology to support powerline projects.