Ontario College Diploma in Powerline Technician

St. Clair College

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. 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. 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.