By Joel Langton
The 830 Times
Southwest Texas College is launching a new powerline technician program and is actively seeking a qualified instructor to lead the effort.
The program is a 14-week course which will include classroom and field work, as well as training in preparation for a Class A CDL. The Del Rio Chamber of Commerce is aiding in the search.
“We are working hard to ensure that all students can improve their skill set as they build a better life,” said Connie Wooldridge-Buchanan, vice president of the SWTX Del Rio campus. “Our studies have shown that there is a regional demand for students to learn how to become a powerline technician.”
Wooldridge-Buchanan said the college is committed to launching the program locally and has already begun working on building the classroom space.
“Building a classroom will be easy,” she said. “Finding the right person to lead the program, that is the challenge.”
The college is seeking a full-time Powerline Instructor who will teach classes, assist in student recruitment and job placement, maintain safety standards and manage class records and equipment.
Requirements
The ideal candidate must hold a high school diploma or GED, with a certificate or associate degree preferred. Applicants must have experience in powerline work, tractor-trailer driving and operation of powerline equipment. A valid Class A CDL is required, and the candidate must pass a road test.
Additional qualifications include the ability to work independently, plan and organize training sessions, assess student progress, and care for instructional equipment. Bilingual (English/Spanish) candidates are preferred, and applicants must be authorized to work in the United States.
The position includes a full benefits package, including health and life insurance, a retirement plan, paid leave, holidays, and tuition waivers for eligible employees and dependents.
Interested applicants can contact the SWTX Office of Workforce Training and Development or click here.
However, Blanca Larson, DR Chamber of Commerce CEO and executive director. said when Wooldridge-Buchanan said the college needed help marketing the position, she knew the Del Rio Chamber of Commerce had to step up to help fund marketing the position statewide.
“Helping our community members transition into the workforce through Career and Technical Education programs is vital for Del Rio and Val Verde County’s growth,” said Larson. “Whatever we can do to support these program’s growth, we will do.”
So, the chamber is picking up the initial marketing costs of the position for state-wide advertising.
“We know this is the ideal job for someone who has put much of their lives into being a powerline technician,” Larson said. “And if they are ready to train the next generation, Southwest Texas College has just the opportunity for them.”
“Southwest Texas College is really picking up the ball and helping us grow our community with their current two-year options, and soon, the four-year options they will offer.” Larson said. “They are being a great partner to Del Rio, and we want to do everything possible to help them.”
The writer can be reached at JoelaLangton@gmail.com .
