New certificate program at NGTC gaining support

Habersham EMC employees joined with crews from Jackson EMC and Georgia Power to construct an outdoor lab for NGTC's new Electrical Lineworker Apprentice Program to start Spring Quarter 2007 at the Clarkesville Campus. Steve Gabrels is at the controls while Rito Aquilar and Greg Williams handle duties on the ground.

Support continues to pour in for the new Electrical Lineworker Apprentice Certificate Program to start at North Georgia Technical College Clarkesville Campus Spring Quarter 2007. Crews from Habersham EMC and Jackson EMC constructed the EMC line for the outdoor lab, while a Georgia Power crew constructed its line.

When complete, students in the program will have equal experience with and exposure to all facets of line work connected with either an EMC line or a Georgia Power line. These two line configurations represent all structure specifications that a graduate will encounter whether working for Georgia Power, an EMC, or a private utility contractor.

"A line is not the same for Georgia Power as it is for the EMCs," says Rhuel Edwards, one of the teachers for this new program. "They both do the same thing, but they have their differences. Our graduates will be equally competent with all." The area EMCs in North Georgia and Georgia Power have been committed to this program from the beginning. "It is an expensive program to start" stated Dr. Judy Taylor, Vice President of Economic Development. "The support from the utilities has been overwhelming. They have donated most of the equipment and materials needed to open the program. Additionally, representatives from both Georgia Power and the area EMCs meet on a regular basis to provide recommendations and suggestions for the curriculum and the program as a whole."

"Industry partnerships are the strength of the technical college system," explained Dr. Ruth Nichols, President of North Georgia Technical College. "We train people to go to work. Our applied learning provides students with opportunities for handson experience in their future careers."

Nichols further noted: "Students who may not excel in a traditional class situation may excel when they learn by doing. The outdoor lab or skills field, constructed by these utilities, will provide this realistic opportunity in a safe learning environment."

The program lasts only eight weeks. A new program will start each quarter, and all graduates are guaranteed job interviews. The starting pay in the electrical industry is above average. Students have an opportunity for a very meaningful career with companies that pay well, provide benefits, and have an optimistic future. The program is covered under the Hope Grant for eligible Georgia citizens.

For information about the program and to apply, call 706-754-7725 or 706-754- 7736.