SWCC

Groundsman Trainees Complete Class

Southwest Virginia Community College, in partnership with TCR Management Group, recently offered Groundsman Training to provide appropriately skilled entry-level workers for regional utility employers and contractors within the Energy sector. Eleven individuals completed the training program, which took place from August 6 - September 14. Within 128 instructional hours, participants learned about safety, protective equipment, knot tying, basic work zone, groundling equipment, transformers, materials and tools, flagging course, installing sleeves, CDL Class B Learner’s Permit review, CPR/First Aid, and 10 hour OSHA training.

A $15,000 grant obtained from Wells Fargo by The Center for Community, Workforce and Economic Solutions at SWCC was awarded to the SWCC Education Foundation to assist in offsetting the cost of instruction. Tuition assistance for eligible participants was made possible through Workforce Investment Act and Department of Rehabilitation Services.

The Groundsman Training Program is the first step up the career ladder to a promising career as a Lineman. Starting salary ranges for Groundsmen are between $25,000-37,000 with experienced Lineman salary ranges between $50,000 and $85,000. TCR Management Group has a proven track record in providing the right connections to course completers. Endorsement and willingness to hire program completers has been expressed by regional Energy employers including Bristol Virginia Utilities, Pike Electric, Davis Elliot, CW Wright and Richardson Wayland.

For more information about training available at SWCC, visit the Community, Workforce & Economic Solutions website. or call 276.964.7244.