What to expect from a Powerline Technician career
While their work can be physically demanding and may occur at unconventional hours, the role of powerline technicians is vital in ensuring the safety and reliability of underground and overhead power transmission systems. Powerline technician programs at Ontario colleges give students the theoretical and practical training they need to have successful careers in the industry.
If you’re interested in power systems and want to start a career as a powerline technician, here’s what you need to know.
Powerline Courses
Powerline technician programs teach students all aspects of designing, drafting, constructing, maintaining and repairing underground and overhead power transmission systems, communication networks and electrical power stations.
Courses cover powerline, electrical, transformer and metering theory, as well as techniques in wiring, powerline construction, computer-aided drafting and more, which students apply in a co-op placement. Time spent in placement can be counted toward journeyperson apprenticeship.
General Powerline Program Requirements
Ontario college powerline technician programs typically require an Ontario Secondary School Diploma (OSSD) or equivalent, which includes a grade 12 English credit. Depending on the program, a grade 12 math credit may be required or recommended.
Note: In a powerline technician career you may be expected to work in all types of weather conditions and at great heights. Heavy lifting may also be necessary. Physical health is an important requirement for all powerline technician programs.
Powerline Jobs and Salaries
Powerline technician program graduates may have the option to register as powerline technician apprentices or journeypersons, or to directly enter the workforce. Employment can be found in a number of industries, including (but not limited to):
- Contracting
- Utility companies
- Equipment suppliers
- Engineering companies
Powerline technician jobs have average starting salaries around $45,000 per year, with the potential to increase with experience.
Ontario Colleges Offering Powerline Programs
Use the left-column navigation to refine your search by College, Program Availability, Program Start Date and more, or see the table below for a complete list of powerline technician programs at Ontario colleges.
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