Northeast Community College’s Utility Line, Associate of Applied Science Degree program is one of only three two-year degree programs of its kind in the nation, offering a powerful combination of classroom instruction and hands-on training. Students gain the skills needed to install, operate, and maintain electrical utility lines through practical experience in pole climbing, metering, wiring, and line construction. The curriculum blends electrical theory with real-world applications, and includes instruction in math, science, power line construction, and electrical apparatus. With an emphasis on safety, skill development, and industry standards, the program prepares graduates for highly marketable careers in the installation, replacement, and maintenance of electrical power lines and equipment. Taught by experienced professionals, the Utility Line program equips students to meet the demands of the power industry and launch successful careers in this critical, in-demand field.
Why Students Choose This Program
Northeast is nationally recognized for its comprehensive utility line and job training safety program. Successful completion of the program prepares you for highly marketable careers installing, replacing, and repairing electrical power poles, lines, and equipment.
Northeast’s Utility Line program is nationally recognized for its comprehensive curriculum and strong emphasis on job safety training. With a focus on real-world skills and industry standards, the program prepares students for high-demand careers in the installation, replacement, and repair of electrical power poles, lines, and equipment. Graduates leave the program job-ready, with the expertise and hands-on experience that employers across the country value.
At Northeast, the Utility Line program is built around the real-world demands of the power industry. From day one, students train using the same tools, safety protocols, and techniques used by professionals in the field. The curriculum is regularly updated to reflect current industry standards, ensuring that students are learning the most relevant and up-to-date practices and are prepared to confidently meet the demands of today’s industry. With experienced instructors and hands-on instruction in areas like pole climbing, metering, and line construction, students graduate with the skills employers are looking for.
Small class sizes in Northeast’s Utility Line program allow for personalized instruction and one-on-one support from experienced, industry-savvy faculty. Instructors work closely with each student, offering tailored guidance and hands-on feedback to help develop strong technical skills and safe work practices. This supportive learning environment ensures that every student has the opportunity to grow, build confidence, and succeed.
Hands-On Learning Opportunities and Courses
Northeast’s Utility Line program is built around immersive, real-world training that takes students far beyond textbooks. At the heart of the experience is our outdoor pole farm, where students spend hours climbing, rigging, and working on full-scale utility poles—sometimes even playing catch 30 feet in the air to build balance, confidence, and teamwork. Our indoor training facility ensures students can continue building skills year-round, regardless of the weather, with focused practice in everything from line construction to safety procedures.
To further strengthen their experience, students also participate in a summer internship program, gaining valuable, on-the-job training with utility companies. These internships offer direct exposure to the industry, allowing students to apply their classroom and field training in real-world settings while making important professional connections. Combined, these hands-on opportunities help students develop the technical skills, safety habits, and confidence needed to thrive in the utility industry.
The program includes a diverse range of courses designed to provide students with both foundational knowledge and specialized skills, including:
- Ropes and Riggings
- Concepts of Electricity
- Line Construction
Program Details
2 years (78 credits)
Classes Monday-Thursday, in person
Enrollment in this program is limited and based on the date of completed requirements for acceptance into this program.
Before admission to this program, students will need to attain the following minimum placement test scores or equivalent. MAP: Math 216+, Reading 216+, Language 216+; ACT: Math 17+, Reading 14+, English 14+
If you have a criminal record, you may not be eligible for employment in some settings. Enrollment in this program is limited and based on the date of completed requirements or acceptance into this program.
In order for students to progress to the next term, they must successfully complete all required classes for the previous term. Students in the Utility Line program are required to have a "C" grade or better in second year UTIL coursework to graduate.
Jeremy Kaiser, Dawson Public Power District
Mike Stockwell, Cornhusker Public Power District
Scott Haber, Cuming County Public Power District
Todd Knutson, Elkhorn Rural Public Power District
Zach Slagle, Lincoln Electric System
Andrew Urkowski, Lincoln Electric System
Dan Hellbusch, Loup Power District
Michael McLaughlin, Nebraska Public Power District
Scott Fritz, Nebraska Public Power District
Todd Zimmerer, North Central Public Power District
Don Nekola, Omaha Public Power District
Tim Potts, Omaha Public Power District
Todd Barger, Southern PPD
Don Dubas, Stanton County Public Power District
