Denmark Technical College proudly celebrated the graduation of its latest cohort from the electrical lineworker program on September 18 at the James W. Bowden Sr. Lineworker Range in Denmark, SC.
The lineworker program, which was designed to increase diversity within the utility industry and foster economic mobility among underserved communities, celebrates the achievement of six graduates, Robert Goode, Cornell Peterson, Ethan Stroud, Nykeisha Thornton, Lemarcus Utsey and Malik Washington.
Representatives from a wide variety of industry organizations and municipalities were present at the ceremony including Alabama Power, Community Development Action Coalition, Dominion Energy, Duke Energy, Edisto Electric, Encolor, Georgia Power, Santee Cooper, the Southern Company and Tri-County Electric Cooperative.
The event featured presentation of certificates of completion and words of encouragement, followed by a demonstration of the skills the newly minted lineworkers learned through the course of the program.
The electrical lineworker program at aims to equip students with the essential skills needed to secure in-demand, high-paying jobs in the ever evolving energy industry. Through hands-on training, industry certifications and close partnerships with local utility companies, the program provides graduates with the tools to succeed in a critical and rapidly growing field.
“We are incredibly proud of these six talented individuals in our seventh cohort of completers who represent the future of the energy workforce,” said Willie L. Todd Jr., Ph.D., president and CEO of Denmark Technical College. “By offering programs like this, we’re not only increasing diversity in a traditionally underrepresented field, but we are also giving our graduates the opportunity to create generational wealth for their families. The success of these students is a testament to our continued effort to put the TECH back in Denmark Tech.”
“Our goal is to give students the skills and knowledge to succeed in high-demand industries and this ceremony is a prime example of that. These graduates have not only gained technical skills but have also paved the way for others in their community to follow. We are excited to see them thrive as they embark on their careers and make a real impact,” added Hadi Hamid, Ph.D., assistant vice president for industrial technologies and workforce development.
The lineworker program was launched in 2022 to help address a shortage of skilled lineworkers both locally and regionally. With a focus on safety, technical expertise and job readiness, the program aims to place graduates directly into well-paying positions, with the potential for significant upward mobility in the workforce.
The six graduates will now forge onward into positions with utility companies across the region, contributing to a more inclusive and equitable industry.
“I strongly encourage anyone interested to take advantage of the incredible opportunity our lineworker program offers. The energy industry is rapidly growing and there has never been a better time to join this dynamic field. With the demand for skilled workers at an all-time high, this program opens doors to a rewarding and stable career,” said Todd.
