SUNY Broome’s Lineworker Training Program equips students with the skills and knowledge needed for various roles in the utility industry, addressing the growing demand for skilled labor in the Southern Tier.
The program combines classroom instruction with practical, hands-on training at a dedicated pole yard, ensuring students gain both theoretical and real-world experience.
Assessment for the 2025 cohort is already underway. If you are interested in staying updated about future Lineworker Program offerings, you may register to do so using the SUNY Broome 2026 Lineworker Training Program Interest Form.
Applicants are required to attend an informational session which runs through mid-February 2025.
Applicants must pass a physical assessment, which includes supervised utility pole climbing, to qualify for entry into the program. Sign-ups for the Physical Assessments will be available after attending an information session. The physical assessments will be the week of February 17. There is a non-refundable registration fee of $100 for the physical assessments. If accepted into the program, the registration fee will be applied toward your program cost.
The 2025 program cost is $9,900, with generous subsidies provided by SUNY and New Energy New York to reduce financial barriers for participants.
The 2025 program is structured in three phases. Detailed scheduling information will be provided upon acceptance into the program:
- Phase 1- Training Part 1: April 14 through May 23 (6 weeks)
- Phase 2 – Paid Internship with NYSEG: June 2 through September 19 (16 weeks)
- Phase 3 – Training Part 2: September 22 through October 17 (4 weeks)
Potential participants must meet the following qualifications:
- Attend a lineworker information session
- Pass a physical assessment
- Submit an application
- Possess a high school diploma or its equivalent
- Be 18 years or older
- Must be proficient in the English language, speaking and writing
- Hold a valid driver’s license and be able to transport yourself to and from the training yard, SUNY Broome, and your assigned internship site
- Additional qualifications for the internship are listed below
This program represents a collaborative effort between SUNY Broome, local employers, and organizations such as NYSEG and IBEW Local 10, with a shared goal of developing a skilled workforce and fostering economic growth in the region. SUNY Broome is committed to fostering diversity in the utility industry. Through partnerships with community organizations, we aim to create pathways for underrepresented groups to pursue rewarding careers.
For more information, contact us at 607-778-5012 or 607-778-5643 or workforce@sunybroome.edu
We extend our gratitude to Buckingham Manufacturing, Lineman Supply, and Greek Peak for their invaluable support in providing equipment and resources for the program.
FAQs
I can’t attend an information session – can I still apply?
Attending an information session is a required part of the application process for all prospective students. We have spread them out over various days and times, as well as virtual offerings to best accommodate different schedules.
This program is a big commitment and attending the information session is part of that commitment.
The potential participant must be the one attending the information session, you cannot have someone attend on your behalf. You can bring someone with you, however.
Am I guaranteed a job upon completion of this program?
What sort of jobs am I qualified for after completion of this program?
What sort of certifications will I earn in this program?
- Microcredential from SUNY Broome (non-credit program)
- Fiber Training
- Battery Storage and the Energy Transition Credential
- OSHA 10 Certification
- First Aid/CPR Certification
- Digger Derrick Certification from Altec
- Insulating Aerial Device Certification from Altec
If I am in high school, can I participate in this program?
Is there financial assistance available?
You may be eligible to receive funding assistance from your local Workforce Development Board. Broome Tioga Workforce has assisted participants previously, and information for offices across New York State can be found at NYS Local Workforce Development Boards.
As this program is a non-credit program, Federal Financial aid is not available. You may consider other funding sources such as a personal loan from a bank or outside scholarships.
If I am traveling from outside of the area, are there any options for housing?
Do I need climbing equipment for this program?
The program fee includes all essential climbing equipment and tools. Students must provide their own climbing boots, which meet the following specifications: Boots need to have an EH (electric hazard) designation, have a composite toe, and a steel shank. Some local places you can go include : Power and Paddle in Candor, Boot Barn in Vestal, Homer Men and Boys, and New Shoe Store Plus which has a few places in PA including Montrose.
Gloves and glasses are provided, but students may also wish to purchase their own.
If you already have climbing equipment it will need to be inspected by one of our instructors and approved for use. It may reduce your program cost, depending on what equipment you have and/or still need.
Is a CDL required to participate in this program, or a part of this training program?
What is the time commitment of the program? What happens if I miss a class?
What is the refund policy?
Can I work part-time during the program?
What are the internship requirements
- Have earned a high school diploma or GED
- Be eligible to obtain and maintain a Commercial Driver License (CDL). (Note, it is not required that a participant have their CDL or earn it during this program, but may be a requirement for employment at some employers.)
- Pass a drug screening
- Must be proficient in the English language, speaking and writing
- Successfully pass and complete Part 1 of the SUNY Broome lineworker training program
- Submit required materials to NYSEG
Where will my internship be located?
Thank you to Buckingham Manufacturing, Lineman Supply, and Greek Peak for their support with equipment for this program.
