NorthWestern Energy has donated a bucket truck to the Lineman Program at Highlands College. The fully operable truck will help train those students who will become future Linemen.
Highlands College conducts a one-semester certificate program which prepares students for groundmen and apprentice positions within the line trade. Over the years, NorthWestern Energy has worked closely with the faculty at Highlands College serving in both an advisory role and a supportive role, such as the donation of this bucket truck.
“This bucket truck will be a huge help for our Lineman Program,” said Bill Hoskins, Highlands College faculty member in the Lineman Program. “It is important that our students get to learn and practice with the same type of equipment they will use out in the field after they graduate. This truck exactly serves that purpose. Thank you, NorthWestern Energy.”
According to a recent survey of the Montana utility industry, there is a nation-wide shortage of skilled line workers. The Lineman Program at Highlands College is the only such program in Montana. The Program is capable of producing up to 50 new apprentice linemen per year.
“We are very grateful and thankful for the tremendous support of NorthWestern Energy,” said Dr. John M. Garic, Dean of Highlands College. “Working with NorthWestern Energy is an ideal example of how higher education and industry can partner together to mutually beneficial ends. Our Highlands College students receive a first-class education, our local businesses, such as NorthWestern Energy, get excellent employees and our local and state economies prosper. It’s a win-win situation.”
For any further information about this issue or any issue pertaining to Montana Tech or Highlands College, please contact Amanda Badovinac at 406-496-4828 or Dr. John M. Garic at 406-496-3714.