Lawson State Community College’s Lineworker Training Program is the first program in Alabama approved for Workforce Pell, Gov. Kay Ivey’s office announced Sept. 14.
Workforce Pell extends federal Pell Grant eligibility to approved short-term training programs for high-skill, high-wage, or in-demand jobs. The Alabama Department of Workforce reviews the applications with the Alabama Workforce Board; a program must show employer demand, a recognized credential, and completion and job placement results. Lawson State’s was the first application through the process.
The 10-week program, offered with Alabama Power, gives more than 400 hours of hands-on training in pole climbing, power line installation, truck driving, and ladder safety. The college has reported hundreds of applicants for recent classes, and participants who do well often have job offers before they finish, according to the governor’s office.
“Our Lineworker Training Program gives students the opportunity to develop real-world skills, earn valuable credentials and prepare for careers that can provide stability for themselves and their families,” Lawson State President Dr. Cynthia T. Anthony said.
Other community colleges are preparing applications, and the Department of Workforce will post a directory of approved programs at workforce.alabama.gov.
