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This is an ARCHIVED version of the Kwantlen Polytechnic University Calendar for 2008-2009 (SPRING) and is provided for historical reference only. See the current version of the Calendar for updated information.

Power Line Technician

POWER LINE TECHNICIAN CITATION

September/Fall 2008 intake for this program has been postponed.

DESCRIPTION

The Power Line Technician program is delivered through a partnership between Kwantlen University College and the Electrical Industry Training Institute (EITI). This twelve week (12) program will prepare students for entry into the physically demanding and rewarding power distribution industry where technicians are well compensated for their above average skills and competencies. Power Line Technicians participate in the building of overhead and underground power distribution lines as well as service and maintenance tasks.

CAREER OPPORTUNITIES

Graduates of this program can apply for entry-level positions in the powerline technician trade. They will have employment opportunities with a diverse group of employers including B.C. Hydro, and various independent line contractors and municipalities. It is expected that successful employment in the trade will lead to an apprenticeship agreement with employers and attainment of Journeyperson Red Seal Certification upon completion of apprenticeship.

STUDENT PROFILE

People who enjoy working in the elements and not being confined to a set location will find this trade appealing. Students should be aware that the Powerline Technician trade is a very physically demanding career that includes controlled-risk tasks including pole climbing and working with high voltage power lines.

Note: Students with mental or physical impairments, who may require program or practicum accommodations, should contact the program coordinator at 604.599.2979 to discuss required skills and competencies, and a Disability Advisor [604.599.3233] to ensure appropriate accommodations can be arranged.

ENTRANCE REQUIREMENTS

In addition to Kwantlen's regular admission requirements, students admitted to the program will have completed the following:

  • Mathematics 11, Physics 11 and English 12 with a minimum grade of C+ in each.
  • Interview by EITI instructor to evaluate readiness to meet the demands of the program; EITI will forward their recommendation directly to Kwantlen
  • Successfully pass the prescribed entrance examinations
  • Eligibility will be determined by application dates i.e.: those applying first and meeting requirements will be admitted first, etc.

Students are responsible for appropriate clothing and footwear as well as textbooks and learning materials.

Students are required to attain Motor Vehicle Air Brake Certification and obtain a class 3 drivers license independent of this program prior to graduation. Students are required to complete grade 12 Math and Physics upgrade independent of this program prior to graduation.

CONTENT

Students will study the following courses delivered by Kwantlen University College:

PTEC 1101 (Personal safety section of) Electrical Safe Work Practices and Regulations

PTEC 1103 Introductory Computer Skills

PTEC 1105 Communications and Team Building

The Electrical Industry Training Institute will deliver the following courses at their training center:

PTEC 1101 Electrical Safe Work Practices and Regulations

PTEC 1106 Applied Electrical Theory

PTEC 1107 Electrical Tools and Instruments

PTEC 1108 Electric Utility Equipment

PTEC 1109 Basic Rigging and Lifting

PTEC 1110 Electrical Utility Climbing

PTEC 1111 Electrical Overhead and Underground Distri­bution

PTEC 1113 Physical Fitness

Grade 12 equivalency is required by the industry. Costs of upgrading, if required are NOT included in tuition and must be arranged prior to graduation.

GRADUATION

Upon successful completion of this program, students are awarded a Citation toward completion of the pre-apprenticeship Powerline Technician program.