MVEC Creates Scholarship For TSTC Electrical Lineworkers Program
MVEC Management Team and TSTC Staff
Magic Valley Electric Cooperative (MVEC) has partnered with Texas State Technical College (TSTC) in Harlingen, Texas, to support its Electrical Lineworker Technology program. MVEC presented the College with a $20,000 donation to establish a scholarship fund for students enrolled in the program.
The funds will help students with tuition, books, and tools to help them achieve their dream of becoming Electrical Lineworkers. TSTC currently offers an Associate of Applied Science degree in Electrical Lineworker Technology and a certificate in Electrical Lineworker Technology, both of which prepare students for careers in the industry.
TSTC’s program provides hands-on training, giving students the experience and skills to safely climb poles, operate utility bucket trucks, and everything needed to install, maintain, and repair electrical distribution lines.
TSTC students practicing pole climbing.
General Manager at MVEC, John Herrera, points out that the company is committed to empowering the communities it serves. “When TSTC reached out to us about investing in their Electrical Lineworker program in the form of a scholarship fund, we did not hesitate. This partnership aligns with our fifth and seventh cooperative principles: Education, Training, Information, and Concern for Community,” he said.
According to data from the U.S. Bureau of Labor Statistics, Texas tops the list of states that have the highest employment opportunities for electrical lineworkers. The statistics also indicate that the demand for lineworkers will grow by 8 to 9% through 2022 as the number of retirements increases in the coming years and as the quantity and strength of powerful storms continue to grow.
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