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volume 1 NORTHWEST LINEMAN COLLEGE telecommunications lineworker program 2021 CATALOG LINEMAN.EDU LINEMAN.EDU
CONTENTS 4 FOUNDER'S MESSAGE 44 policies 6 ABOUT NLC 46 General Program Policies 7 Highlights 52 VA and Eligible Persons–Specific 8 History Policies 10 Facilities 52 Idaho-Specific Policies 12 Professionals and Educators 53 Attendance Policy for COVID-19 14 Curriculum Situations 15 Three-Phase Educational Model 53 Hardship Withdrawal Due to 16 Preparing Students for Success 17 Traits of Successful Graduates COVID-19 54 Graduation Requirements–CDL/ CLP 18 TELECOMMUNICATIONS 54 Refund Information–Housing LINEWORKER PROGRAM 55 Veterans and Eligible Persons overview 20 Career Opportunities 21 Career Outlook 22 Training Environment 23 TLP Program Information 23 Graduation Requirements 24 Course Descriptions 26 TLP Tools 28 CDL/CLP Information 29 CDL Testing Course Descriptions 30 Program Calendar 31 Program Costs 32 GENERAL INFORMATION 34 Student Services 35 Admission Requirements 36 Enrollment Process 37 Stay Connected 38 Funding 40 Board and Officers 41 Contact Information 42 Instructors As a prospective student, you are encouraged to review this catalog prior to signing an enrollment agreement. The content, costs, and policies stated in this catalog (2021 Volume 1) are valid from its publication date of September 17, 2020, until its end date of December 31, 2021, or until an updated version is published, whichever comes first. Visit lineman.edu for the most current catalog version. 2021 TELECOMMUNICATIONS LINEWORKER PROGRAM CATALOG 3
FOUNDER’s message TX NLC MISSION NLC CORE VALUES To improve lives, the industries we serve, PASSION: Love what you do with persistence, motivation, and the attitude to succeed. and the country, Northwest Lineman College will be a dynamic, visionary, INTEGRITY: Do the right thing—even when no one is watching—so trust, honor, and leading international educational and dependability are your hallmarks. institution providing the benchmark standard of human performance, training, and products for the trades that EXCELLENCE: Innovate always, leveraging originality and teamwork, so your legacy exceed the expectations of customers. of positive contribution to the industry is guaranteed. 4 NORTHWEST LINEMAN COLLEGE
FOUNDER’S MESSAGE Congratulations on considering a career in telecommunications—an industry that offers many rewards and challenges with excellent pay, benefits, and security. NLC provides the quality education needed to prepare you for success. Everyone needs telecommunication services, and it’s the highly respected tradespeople who keep this service running in all weather conditions, at all hours. In my opinion, this is one of the greatest trades of all, made up of great people. A career in telecommunications should be strongly considered by those who enjoy challenges, adventure, problem- solving, and camaraderie. This trade is an ideal choice for people who like working with their hands and want variety and physical activity in their work. It also provides many opportunities for advancement into leadership and management roles. Many of my NLC colleagues and I have worked as tradespeople for leading utility and construction companies through the nation; in fact, I graduated from a program quite similar to NLC’s Electrical Lineworker Program. It is this firsthand experience as seasoned tradespeople—and now as professional educators—that allows us to know precisely the knowledge, skills, and behavior required for you to be a top candidate with companies across the country. This catalog has a wealth of information to help you explore a career possibility in telecommunications. Planning and preparation are key, so please read this document thoroughly, ask questions, and visit our campuses to meet with our remarkable training specialists and staff. We want to make sure this trade and our training program fit you and your career goals. Thank you for considering us for this very important training. NLC creates a positive learning environment, and I assure you that our commitment to providing a quality education remains unwavering. You may only be here a short time, but you enroll for a lifetime—NLC will always help you advance. Sincerely, Aaron Howell Founder NLC founder Aaron Howell is a lineman, educator, and International Lineman Hall of Fame inductee. He has traveled the country many times, meeting with utility and construction company personnel to ensure NLC is providing the knowledge, skills, and behavior that make graduates employable across America. 2021 TELECOMMUNICATIONS LINEWORKER PROGRAM CATALOG 5
ABOUT NLC NLC is an industry-leading institution that provides electrical, telecom, and natural gas educational services. ID NLC offers career programs (entry level) for Kabul, Afghanistan, and Tanzania, Africa. 1996 ELP graduate and President of NLC electrical linework, telecommunications (For Africa, curriculum was developed in Innovations Mark Groves. linework, and natural gas distribution. English and Swahili—a very meaningful NLC’s positive influence in the industries We also provide apprentice and project that helped Tanzanians realize we serve is the result of continual focus journey-level training for the electric rural electrification.) on improvement. The NLC approach has utility industry. Hundreds of power and Major industry manufacturers, in their always been to do what is best for its construction companies throughout never-ending quest to improve safety students. In the words of founder Aaron the United States (as shown on the and reliability, look to NLC for training Howell, “The decisions we make influence map on the following page), and even and product advice as well. In fact, these our trainees and the industries, and must internationally, use these programs. NLC relationships led to NLC’s development of always be positive.” has designed and built training centers in the OX Block®—a remarkable invention by 6 NORTHWEST LINEMAN COLLEGE FL
ABOUT NLC Companies using NLC training NLC campus locations HIGHLIGHTS LINEMAN LEADERSHIP MAJOR TRAINING INITIATIVES THE AMERICAN LINEMAN Several high-level leaders, including NLC is regularly called upon by utility and While at NLC, SVP of Research & NLC founder Aaron Howell, are linemen construction companies and governments Development Alan Drew (retired) authored who have earned degrees and special to assist with major training initiatives. At The American Lineman, considered by certifications in education, engineering, the forefront are NLC training specialists, many to be the finest historical book and business. who travel the world and bring their about linemen ever written. Visit experiences back to share with NLC theamericanlineman.com to learn more. LINEMAN HALL OF FAME INDUCTEES students. Founder Aaron Howell, Senior VP of SPANNING THE STRAIT Research & Development Alan Drew CURRICULUM DEVELOPMENT A companion to The American Lineman, (retired), Training Advisor Jeff Morris, VP NLC has been developing curriculum since Alan Drew’s Spanning the Strait details the of Campus Operations Bill Bosch, and 1998, and has developed an extensive story of one of the most significant projects Training Specialist Bob Smith (retired) are and modern curriculum supporting the in the history of the power industry: the all inductees in the International Lineman industries we serve. crossing of the Carquinez Strait. Hall of Fame. THE “MAROONS” OX BLOCK THREE-PHASE EDUCATIONAL MODEL NLC training specialists wear special NLC graduate and President of NLC NLC developed its own special method maroon shirts that only they can Innovations Mark Groves invented the of instruction called the Three-Phase wear—they are not available for sale. OX Block®, revolutionizing rigging in the Educational Model®, which focuses on the Often referred to as “The Spine of the power industry. It is manufactured via three domains of learning while providing Company,” these experienced tradesmen license by Buckingham Manufacturing. a quality education in a positive learning are trained in sound teaching and training Videos featuring the OX Block can be environment. methodologies. found on YouTube. 2021 TELECOMMUNICATIONS LINEWORKER PROGRAM CATALOG 7
History The history of NLC dates back to 1991, when two of its founders—Gerald McKie and Aaron Howell (both Boise State University linework trainers at the time)—realized that a more modern program needed to be developed. The two decided the best course of NLC’s commitment to continual Throughout its history, NLC’s leaders action would be to establish a private improvement of the industry was dreamed of applying its proven college dedicated to providing the finest punctuated in 2011 by the hiring of educational methods to other skilled- educational offerings ever known in the alumnus Mark Groves, with the intent of trade industries. In 2019, NLC finally industry. To help realize this endeavor, manufacturing better, safer tools for the had the opportunity to do just that, Howell approached fellow lineman Shane industry. Groves and Howell developed a by offering entry-level programs in Porter, NLC’s third founder. snatch block with friction capabilities— telecommunications linework and in McKie brought extensive trade and the highly successful OX Block®—and natural gas. These programs marked a new training experience to the table; Howell revolutionized rigging safety with a single phase in the history of NLC. and Porter also had considerable product. NLC continues its innovation with experience, in addition to degrees in a wide range of other safety and training business and engineering, respectively. products that will improve the industry The three went to work designing what well into the future. would become the Electrical Lineworker Program (ELP)—a modernized, student- focused approach to linework training. Studying the needs of power companies across the United States, they developed an innovative curriculum designed to graduate the most competitive candidates in the country. After two years of research and development, NLC was founded in April 1993, opening its doors to the first ELP class in August that same year. The new approach was well received, drawing considerable attention from the industry’s best and brightest. In 1998, Alan Drew—a lineman, engineer, and one of the industry’s foremost experts on linework operations and history—joined ranks. Drew contributed immediately, formalizing overall operations of the college, which led to national accreditation in 2000. NLC’s pioneering spirit proved to be a catalyst for growth in other areas. In 1998, more groundbreaking curriculum was produced that took complex topics and explained them using simple-to- understand language and well-illustrated imagery—luxuries the industry had been starved for. That effort would become the foundation for the Power Delivery Programs, NLC’s distance-learning subsidiary. Hundreds of power companies enrolled thousands of employees in the programs, only to request even more training. Before long, NLC was delivering on-site training to thousands more lineworkers and other professionals across the country—even around the world. These efforts were led by alumnus Michael ID Hennesey. 8 NORTHWEST LINEMAN COLLEGE
ABOUT NLC ID Founding members Shane Porter (far left), Gerald McKie (second from right), and Aaron Howell (far right) with NLC’s first ELP class. August 4, 1993 Northwest Lineman College’s first official day delivering instruction. Twenty-two students from five states converged for training from the Electrical Lineworker Program's three founders. Students and instructors were launching completely new careers on the exact same day. Original NLC hard hat from 1993. 2021 TELECOMMUNICATIONS LINEWORKER PROGRAM CATALOG 9
facilities telecommunications lineworker program CAMPUS DETAILS idaho campus NLC campuses are located in four beautiful, vibrant communities that provide a wide range of recreational and cultural activities. 7600 S Meridian Rd Students come from all over the country to attend NLC programs at one of these Meridian, ID 83642 campuses. NLC class sessions are held at the addresses listed below for the respective campus a student enrolls in. • 3 classrooms and administration space including corporate offices (20,000 sq ft) All campuses have the following: • 7,200-sq-ft indoor lab area • Classroom facilities with digital projection systems, Internet connectivity, educational • 25-acre field-training area props, instructional posters, and learning resource centers with computers, industry- related publications, study areas, periodicals, and videos. Students can access any resource in the learning center during normal business hours. • Appropriately equipped indoor lab areas and extensive outdoor field-training areas for performing competencies listed in the program sections of this catalog. • Student lunchrooms • Tool and merchandise stores • Free Wi-Fi Call 888-LINEWORK to schedule a live tour at any of our campuses or TAKE A VIRTUAL TOUR at lineman.edu Electrical Lineworker Program Telecommunications Lineworker Program THE TELECOMMUNICATIONS LINEWORKER PROGRAM IS CURRENTLY OFFERED EXCLUSIVELY AT THE IDAHO CAMPUS. 10 NORTHWEST LINEMAN COLLEGE
ABOUT NLC Northwest Lineman College campuses offering other programs: california campus texas campus FLORIDA campus 2009 Challenger Ave 5110 Dakota Ln 501 Pullman Rd Oroville, CA 95965 Denton, TX 76207 Edgewater, FL 32132 • 4 classrooms and administration space • 5 classrooms and administration space • 3 classrooms and administration space (10,000 sq ft) (7,000 sq ft) (7,000 sq ft) • 14,000-sq-ft indoor lab area • 10,000-sq-ft indoor ELP lab area • 10,000-sq-ft indoor ELP lab area • 14-acre field-training area • 16-acre field-training area • 18-acre field-training area • 7,000-sq-ft gas fusion and plumbing lab • 3,000-sq-ft gas fusion and plumbing lab Electrical Lineworker Program Electrical Lineworker Program Electrical Lineworker Program Natural Gas Technician Program 2021 TELECOMMUNICATIONS LINEWORKER PROGRAM CATALOG 11
professionals and educators To ensure students are exposed to prevailing methods, tools, and the most current safety regulations, NLC has a rigorous recruiting, hiring, and training process for its professional educators. This process starts with recruiting developing a special screening process education courses. This highly dedicated training specialists who are passionate that ensures only instructors with the group of training professionals are the about educating the next generation greatest knowledge, skill, and aptitude for only members of NLC’s staff who earn of workers, but also extends to support training are selected. NLC trainers come the privilege to wear the special maroon and leadership staff, who design the from all types of utility and construction shirt, and are commonly referred to as curriculum and facilities, maintain companies, enabling students to learn “Maroons.” relationships with the industry, and ensure about different career opportunities from that NLC’s focus remains on the student. those with firsthand experience. NLC specially selects trainers from pools of Upon employment, NLC trainers are candidates from across the U.S. who have enrolled in NLC’s internal training program broad trade experience. NLC spent years and are certified in a variety of adult- NLC is very proud of its staff and the credentials they’ve earned. This includes, but is not limited to: • Nine training specialists awarded the distinguished NLC Educator of the Year or Outstanding Training Specialist award, for continually innovating and advancing NLC educational offerings. • Five International Lineman Hall of Fame inductees (current and retired). • Many military veterans, dedicated to continually improving training effectiveness and operations. • A former elected state representative, serving as NLC’s president. • Members of the prestigious IEEE and CIGRE organizations. ID • Multiple senior leadership members who are certified journeymen electrical lineworkers with years of trade experience. • Two three-time winners of the prestigious Telly Award for video production. • Dozens of leadership and staff members carry graduate credentials. The efforts of all NLC educators, leaders, and staff have led to the creation of educational programs that focus heavily on safety and student success. ID 12 NORTHWEST LINEMAN COLLEGE
ABOUT NLC ID NLC Idaho Training Specialist Chris Sexton shares his trade experience with students. TX NLC VP of Apprenticeship Programs Jacob Phelps at the training center NLC Mobile Training Specialist Jose Lopez loves his job, rain or shine. NLC built in Tanzania, Africa. 2021 TELECOMMUNICATIONS LINEWORKER PROGRAM CATALOG 13
curriculum NLC curriculum has been specially crafted to maximize student learning. To ensure students are learning, NLC has concepts in three steps: they read it, hear self-directed learning activities. Every a curriculum development team that it, and then practice it. effort is made to ensure the curriculum is includes technical authors, education NLC continually evaluates the a vehicle to student success, rather than a professionals, subject-matter experts, effectiveness of its curriculum by barrier. graphic designers, and videographers. measuring student performance. Materials Hundreds of power and construction Materials are well-illustrated, explaining not well understood are revised, and companies use NLC’s curriculum for difficult concepts in an easy-to- unclear test questions are rewritten. training purposes. NLC was also specially understand format. This approach Courses are sequenced in such a way that selected by the U.S. Department of Energy maximizes student learning and retention. fundamental concepts are learned first, to write curriculum related to the smart Classroom topics are related to lab followed by topics that require increased grid. Because the industries we serve and field activities as well, reinforcing technical understanding. Students are also continually evolve, NLC modernizes its important concepts. The curriculum is able to expand their understanding of the materials on a regular basis. designed to expose students to these topics that interest them the most through An example of NLC’s curriculum, created by NLC’s own development team. It is specially designed to maximize student learning outcomes and is continually updated to include the latest industry standards and best practices. 14 NORTHWEST LINEMAN COLLEGE
ABOUT NLC three-phase educational model NLC created its Three-Phase Educational Model® based on well-researched educational theories. Using this model as the basis for the training in all NLC programs, each academic course, skill competency, and behavior expectation fits directly into one of the three educational phases: knowledge, skill, or behavior. knowledge phase The Knowledge phase addresses cognitive, or intellectual, activities. Engaging students at the highest cognitive level occurs in a classroom or lab setting. The development of intellectual skills includes the recall or recognition of specific facts, procedural patterns, and concepts that serve in the development of intellectual abilities and skills. skill phase The Skill phase is the “hands-on” phase of training. This is where students learn and practice the fundamentals of field-based methods. First demonstrated by training specialists, students follow their direction in practicing and building fluency in each competency, which is later timed and rated for proficiency. Often strenuous, the Skill phase offers students the opportunity to condition their physical strengths to meet the demands of their industry. behavior phase While knowledge and skill are important, positive behavior and attitude have been identified by utility and construction company leadership as attributes a potential employee must have. For this reason, the Behavior phase focuses on safety, camaraderie, customer service, and conviction, to help students develop steadfast reputations for being mature, reliable, safe, and civic-minded. 2021 TELECOMMUNICATIONS LINEWORKER PROGRAM CATALOG 15
preparing students for success Students enrolled in our programs can learn about various types of companies, opportunities, and how to prepare to be top-tier candidates. EDUCATING FOR SUCCESS NLC offers a specially designed Career Planning and Strategies course where students learn about various jobs and careers to which their education applies. Students also learn effective cover letter and résumé writing, interviewing skills, networking methods, preparation for entrance testing, and professional behaviors. NLC is committed to providing each student the tools and resources needed to successfully research, apply for, and secure jobs and careers. Though it is the student’s responsibility to decide on their career path, NLC provides substantial assistance and advice. CA CA 16 NORTHWEST LINEMAN COLLEGE
ABOUT NLC traits of successful graduates The lengths to which NLC graduates leverage their education are nearly boundless. Presented here are the characteristics highly successful graduates embrace to secure jobs and launch long, rewarding careers. ID BE as competitive as possible Consider all company types Thoroughly research companies There can be competition for many jobs, AS opportunities Successful students and graduates take and companies make every effort to select NLC programs serve many industries, as the time to learn everything they can the best applicants. Successful graduates shown in the career charts in this catalog. about each company, including company make every effort to ensure they will Graduates who consider all these trades type, its core values, customers, major graduate as a top candidate as they as potential opportunities maximize projects, service area, system details, progress through their program. the number of jobs available to them. training, and more. The more that can be Successful graduates understand this learned, the better. MAXIMIZE GEOGRAPHIC fact, and keep all options available as they FLEXIBILITY consider their employment. don't wait too long to Utility and construction companies cover get into the trade large geographic regions. Opportunities BE relentless and organized History has shown that students who increase in proportion to the size of the in search FOR employment wait longer periods for a desired job to geographic area in which a student is New job opportunities continually open often see their skills and knowledge willing to work. A graduate willing to work present themselves. Successful graduates diminish. As more time passes, they in any state in the country will have the establish a diligent routine searching become less competitive when the most opportunities. for jobs, including website exploration, opportunity for a job they really want résumé dissemination, employer visits, comes along. It is important to get into the trade as soon as possible to start building BE WISE WITH FREE TIME and more. They keep record of employers contacted, résumés submitted, and experience and improving skills and There are 168 hours in a week. Successful company contacts. They schedule knowledge. students understand that when sleep, full-time NLC schooling, and eating are follow-up meetings. They do not become subtracted, a substantial amount of discouraged, knowing their efforts will daylight hours remain; they apply these ultimately be successful. hours to their studies, career research, and job search. 2021 TELECOMMUNICATIONS LINEWORKER PROGRAM CATALOG 17
TLP overview ID TlP graduates are: TLP GRADUATES WILL: • Highly qualified for initial employment. • Learn how to construct, maintain, and safety equipment. • Highly successful in completing future operate the nation’s 5G, data, Wi-Fi, • Learn to operate bucket trucks training programs. radio, cable, and telecommunications and digger derricks. networks. • Prepared to pursue a long, rewarding • Learn how to identify career options career. • Learn how to work in elevated positions, and interview confidently. using the industry’s most up-to-date 18 NORTHWEST LINEMAN COLLEGE
Tlp overview TELECOMMUNICATIONS lineworker program 2021 TELECOMMUNICATIONS LINEWORKER PROGRAM CATALOG 19
career opportunities The global telecommunications industry offers many opportunities for exciting and rewarding long-term careers. It is a robust, $2,693-billion industry1 that employs more than 122,0002 American workers as of 2018. The backbone of the digital world is telecommunications. Imagine a world without the Internet or wireless digital communication. No smart phones, no online purchases, no streaming video, no social media, no digital apps, and no cloud-based computing. Hard to imagine, right? Without the important work of telecommunications lineworkers and equipment installers and repairers, ID none of these technologies would exist today. Each time the wireless network adds another “G” or requires more bandwidth, the men and women in the telecommunications industry make it possible. According to the Telecommunications Industry Association, fiber cabling passes by less than one third of homes in the U.S. ID and only 39% of consumers have access to more than one broadband provider of 25 Mbps service. Approximately 10 million rural homes and 3 million urban and suburban homes can’t get broadband speeds at all. Now as the market enters the era of 5G, fiber matters more than ever. With 5G relying in large part on high radio frequencies, a large number of small 5G radios, or “cells,” will be required, and those small cells will require a substantial amount of fiber. In fact, as of 2017, estimates call for 1,390,816 miles of fiber cable, to be exact. And that is just to provide full 5G service to the top-25 metropolitan land areas in the United States alone.3 1. https://empowerednews.net/telecoms-market- global-industry-analysis-size-share-growth- trends-and-forecast-2019-2022/181536103/ 2. U.S. Bureau of Labor Statistics, https://www. onetonline.org/link/summary/49-9052.00 3. Telecommunications Industry Association, https://tiaonline.org/industry-priorities/ ID transforming-infrastructure/fiber-cabling/ 20 NORTHWEST LINEMAN COLLEGE
Tlp overview career outlook Telecommunications is a robust, vibrant, growing industry that provides rewarding careers to more than 100,000 people. As illustrated below, the industry is projected to continue to grow for the foreseeable future. A CAREER THAT CAN’T BE OUTSOURCED + increased retirements + increased customer reliance on telecommunications + increased installation and maintenance of telecommunications line + increased domestic and global initiatives to expand telecommunications capacity = 123,000 TELECOMMUNICATIONS LINEWORKERS NATIONWIDE 8.2% PROJECTED GROSS DOMESTIC $2,693-BILLION GLOBAL TELECOM 122,000+ TELECOM LINEWORKERS PRODUCT as of july 2019 1 INDUSTRY AS OF 2018 2 as of 2018 3 By the end of 2020 the telecom industry is Telecommunications is a global America’s telecom companies pay billions projected to contribute 8.2% of real gross $2,693-billion industry that provides a vital of dollars in tax revenue, employ more domestic product to the U.S. economy. service to modern life. Telecommunications than 122,000 workers, and provide a data enables the modern economy and variety of public service programs to enhances everyday life. benefit the local communities they serve. HOURLY BY PERCENTILE OCCUPATION 10th 25th Median 75th 90th 49-9052 Telecommunications Line Installers and Repairers $14.88 $18.49 $28.02 $37.41 $44.44 49-2022 Telecommunications Equipment Installers and Repairers $15.59 $20.38 $26.97 $34.51 $39.84 49-2021 Radio, Cellular, and Tower Equipment Installers and Repairers $15.15 $19.52 $26.39 $33.94 $41.52 37-3013 Tree Trimmers and Pruners $11.70 $14.57 $18.36 $23.88 $29.48 49-1011 First-Line Supervisors of Mechanics, Installers, and Repairers $19.19 $24.72 $31.80 $40.37 $50.01 53-7021 Crane and Tower Operators $15.02 $19.11 $26.03 $34.10 $41.98 49-9098 Helpers–Installation, Maintenance, and Repair Workers $9.59 $11.43 $14.16 $17.80 $22.42 47-2073 Operating Engineers and Other Construction Equipment Operators $15.06 $17.90 $22.98 $30.55 $40.46 Occupation wage data reflects numbers reported by the Bureau of Labor Statistics as of May 2018. For more details on the occupations listed above, search the Occupational Outlook Handbook at: bls.gov/ooh/ 1. https://economictimes.indiatimes.com/industry/telecom/telecom-news/telecom-industry-may-contribute-8-2-to-gdp-by-2020-by-leveraging-5g/ articleshow/70071849.cms?from=mdr 2. https://empowerednews.net/telecoms-market-global-industry-analysis-size-share-growth-trends-and-forecast-2019-2022/181536103/ 3. U.S. Department of Labor as reported through ONet at: https://www.onetonline.org/link/summary/49-9052.00 2021 TELECOMMUNICATIONS LINEWORKER PROGRAM CATALOG 21
training environment NLC promotes safety, productivity, and camaraderie, helping prepare students for success. Students are engaged equally in classroom train students to operate successfully in the instructors is commonplace. The positive and field learning activities each day of profession. Success is achieved by creating culture that students experience creates a the school week (Mon–Thu). Classes are a positive learning environment where lasting impression they carry throughout not typically in session Fridays; this time is students are challenged, encouraged, and their long and rewarding careers. normally reserved for career preparation held accountable. Students are placed in NLC graduates can become and academic study. In order to maintain crews where camaraderie and teamwork are telecommunications workers, crew a high-quality training environment, emphasized daily. leaders, safety and training professionals, faculty-to-student ratios are kept to a Exemplifying the best practices and supervisors, directors, even company maximum of 16:1 in the field and 76:1 in expectations of trade professionals, NLC presidents. Because knowing which the classroom across all campuses. training specialists leverage experience students will become presidents is Because of the procedural nature of and adult-education training to facilitate impossible, we conduct training as if they telecommunications work and the strict practical and beneficial learning experiences all will. adherence to safety rules it requires, NLC for each student. At NLC, the forming of has established rules and procedures that lifelong friendships among classmates and ID 22 NORTHWEST LINEMAN COLLEGE
Tlp overview tlp program information PROGRAM OBJECTIVE COURSE OUTLINE NLC’s Telecommunications Lineworker Program objective is to provide the training and PROGRAM LENGTH education needed to ensure that graduates are: Seven weeks of full-time enrollment, • Highly qualified for initial employment. totaling 179.5 clock hours (50 minutes of instruction per clock hour). See the table • Highly successful in completing future training programs. at left for a complete breakdown of hours. • Prepared to pursue a long, rewarding career. DAILY SCHEDULE Class and field training are in session COURSE LECTURE HOURS LAB HOURS CLOCK HOURS PROGRAM WEEK Monday through Thursday (occasionally Friday) 8:00 AM−4:30 PM. Included in this TLP 10210 First Aid Certification - 4 4 1 time frame are two 15-minute breaks (one TLP 10220 CPR Certification - 4 4 1 morning, one afternoon) and a 30-minute TLP 10230 Commercial Learner’s Permit (CLP) - - - 1-7 lunch break. NLC reserves the right to TLP 10250 Pole-Top Rescue Certification* - - - 5-7 adjust the daily scheduled course hours (8:00−4:30) as deemed necessary by NLC TLP 11860 OSHA 10-Hour ET&D 12 - 12 6-7 staff. TLP 11980 Rigging for Telecommunications 14 - 14 1, 3-4 TLP 11990 Digger Derrick Safety 1 - 1 6 COURSE NUMBERING SYSTEM Course numbers consist of a three- TLP 12030 Behavior Assessment 2 - 2 4, 7 character prefix followed by a five-digit TLP 12040 Aerial Cable I Competencies - 12 12 3-4 number sequence. The prefix represents TLP 12050 Aerial Cable II Competencies - 24 24 5-7 the program (TLP). The number sequence is broken into three parts: the first digit is TLP 12060 Telecommunications Networks I 21 - 21 3-4 an internal classification code; the second TLP 12070 Aerial Lift Certification - 12 12 1-2 part includes three digits, which represent TLP 12080 Climbing I Competencies - 12 12 1-4 the section of curriculum; and the third part is the final digit, which indicates the TLP 12090 Equipment I Competencies - 8 8 2-4 apprentice level of the course. TLP 12100 Climbing II Competencies - 20 20 5-7 TLP 12110 Work Orders for Telecommunications 7 - 7 5 TLP 12120 Career Planning and Strategies 8.5 - 8.5 3-6 TLP 12130 Telecommunications Networks II 14 - 14 5 TLP 12140 Equipment II Competencies - 4 4 5-6 TOTALS: 79.5 100 179.5 7 Weeks graduation requirements The following requirements must be met for a student to earn a TLP Certificate of Completion. ACADEMIC ACHIEVEMENT PERFORMANCE AND BEHAVIOR 70% or higher in each academic class. No behaviors marked “Unacceptable” on final review in TLP12030. FIELD COMPETENCIES AND CERTIFICATIONS ATTENDANCE All field competencies and certifications No more than three absences. achieved before the start of the last week COMMERCIAL LEARNER’S PERMIT of class. * Students must successfully complete TLP 12100 to earn this certification; all hours are listed with TLP 12100. 2021 TELECOMMUNICATIONS LINEWORKER PROGRAM CATALOG 23
course descriptions To ensure a well-rounded education, students are required to complete all courses detailed in this section. The following descriptions provide a basic overview of the fundamentals of each course. If you have any questions, please contact NLC for further information. knowledge phase TLP 11860 TLP 12060 TLP 12120 OSHA 10-HOUR ET&D TELECOMMUNICATIONS NETWORKS I CAREER PLANNING AND STRATEGIES This course is delivered by an authorized This course provides an overview of A course structured to occur throughout Occupational Safety and Health working on telecommunications lines. the program term, and designed to Administration (OSHA) Outreach trainer Specifically, learners will focus on safety simulate the hiring processes employed and follows the OSHA 10 Electrical practices and situational awareness, by the investor-owned utilities. This course Transmission and Distribution (ET&D) working around electricity, and how to guides students as they develop job- format. Students will learn about the ground. Students will learn about the hunting materials and skills. OSH Act, OSHA’s mission, and the history of telecommunications. There is an regulations that are most applicable to emphasis on learning line equipment and telecommunications crews. Emphasis is hardware. Additionally, students will learn TLP 12130 also given to OSHA’s Focus Four hazards. about materials needed for placing strand TELECOMMUNICATIONS NETWORKS II Each successful participant will earn and cable. This course is designed to teach the an OSHA Electrical Transmission and students about the placement of aerial Distribution 10-hour card. Certification fiber-optic communications cable. provided by OSHA and the ET&D TLP 12110 Students will explore the methods of partnership. WORK ORDERS back-pull and drive-off installation and will FOR TELECOMMUNICATIONS be introduced to underground systems. This course instructs students on work TLP 11980 orders and the important role they play RIGGING FOR TELECOMMUNICATIONS in the telecommunications field. Students This course is designed to teach the will learn common symbols related to student about fall protection and the work orders. They will learn how to read tensions associated with common work orders and apply those work orders rigging used on the job site. The proper to prospective job sites. Students will application of knots and the effects that identify hazards not captured on the work knots have on ropes are discussed in order. detail. In addition, students will learn about the mechanical advantage gained with tensions with snatch blocks. Students also explore safety when working around mechanical equipment. TLP 11990 DIGGER DERRICK SAFETY In this course, students learn the necessary behaviors, knowledge, and skills to safely work on and around digger derricks in utility construction sites. Topics include worksite protection, truck setup, underground facilities, lifting capacities, and sling tensions. To pass this course, students must also pass TLP 11980, TLP 12090, TLP 12140, and a written examination. ID 24 NORTHWEST LINEMAN COLLEGE
Tlp overview skill phase behavior phase TLP 10210 TLP 12070 TLP 12030 first aid certification aerial lift certification behavior assessment Successful completion of this course Students learn how to safely operate the Discussion, demonstration, and display results in a nationally recognized first Altec T40P and AT235 aerial lift trucks to of behaviors essential to the success of aid certification. Students learn to safely perform telecommunications activities. entry-level lineworkers. Instruction and perform as a competent first responder in After successful course completion, assessment occur in classroom and field an environment that requires use of basic students will be granted a certification environments. Students learn the levels first aid. Idaho campus: Coyne First Aid. provided by Altec. of general attitude, responsibility, and motivation required of lineworkers, and how to project themselves in a positive, TLP 10220 TLP 12080 professional manner utilizing verbal and cpr certification climbing i competencies nonverbal skills. Successful completion of this course Students learn to use climbing gear and results in a nationally recognized proper techniques for working from cardiopulmonary resuscitation (CPR) wood poles. Ascending, descending, and certification. Students learn to safely rotating at lower elevations are central perform as a competent first responder in themes. an environment that requires use of basic CPR. Idaho campus: Coyne First Aid. TLP 12090 equipment i competencies TLP 10230 Following instruction about the commercial learner’s permit fundamentals of truck setup, work-site Students who do not possess a current protection, and vehicle operation, the Class A commercial driver’s license (CDL) course provides advanced instruction on prior to attending NLC must obtain a boom operation—including load lifting commercial learner’s permit (CLP) prior to and screw anchor installation. Hand graduation. signals and safety around suspended loads are also emphasized. TLP 10250 POLE-TOP RESCUE CERTIFICATION TLP 12100 Students learn to safely perform pole-top climbing ii competencies rescue activities, and must complete the Positioning and climbing techniques Pole-Top Rescue competency. Certification are refined as students ascend, descend, provided by NLC. and rotate at higher elevations. Training incorporates more advanced skills and TLP 12040 telecommunications scenarios. aerial cable i competencies Students will learn and practice the process of placing strand and lashing TLP 12140 fiber-optic cable so that the cable can be equipment ii competencies This field course provides advanced prepared for splicing. instruction on digger-derrick operation— including load lifting, hole excavation TLP 12050 (using the auger), and setting poles— with an emphasis on hand signals and aerial cable ii competencies safety around suspended loads. Training Students build on their previous learning incorporates more advanced skills and by installing aerial cable using the drive- telecommunications scenarios. off and back-pull methods. Students will delash a line and learn how to remove tension from the strand safely. ID 2021 TELECOMMUNICATIONS LINEWORKER PROGRAM CATALOG 25
tlp tools Tools listed here are stocked on campus for the Telecommunications Lineworker Program. NLC training specialists explain the use of each tool and provide a personal fitting for every student. In addition to tuition and fees, students in the Telecommunications Lineworker Program are required to purchase the climbing and hand tools listed below. NLC works closely with leading utility and construction companies to identify widely utilized tools in the industry, then works with manufacturers and distributors to secure discounted prices. Though manufacturer and distributor prices fluctuate, every effort is made to ensure NLC students receive the lowest possible prices. CLIMBING TOOLS HAND TOOLS CLOTHING Gaff Guards 14 Screwdriver NLC Safety Shirts 1 One pair included with climbers; All students are required to purchase a minimum replacements available 15 Folding Ruler 6’ fiberglass, inside read of four shirts (two orange, two yellow), sold exclusively at NLC campuses. 2 Climbers and Pads Tool/Bolt Bag 16 10” Pump Pliers Rain Gear 3 Attaches to body belt 17 9” Lineman Pliers Though not a requirement, it is recommended that students purchase rain gear, as training will Body Belt proceed regardless of weather. 4 Full-floating system 18 Hammer 32 oz CLASSROOM SUPPLIES 5 Hard Hat 19 Lineman’s Skinning Knife The cost of your training manual is included Safety Glasses in tuition, and will be provided the first day of 6 ANSI standard Z-87.1 20 Adjustable Wrench 12” class. All other classroom supplies should be purchased prior to the first day of the term. Cut-Resistant Gloves 7 Two pairs of short cuffs 21 Lineman’s Wrench The following are recommended: Scientific Calculator 8 Tool Holster 22 Ratcheting Wrench Set of two e.g., Texas Instruments 30x Five-pocket Notepad 9 SuperSqueezeTM and BuckAdjuster 23 High-Impact Can Wrench Pens and Highlighters 10 Lineman Boots #2 Pencils 11 Gaff Sharpening Kit Backpack 12 Climber Shields Lunch Box 13 Lineman Tool Bag Laptop Computer (optional) NLC negotiates with manufacturers to provide high-quality tools to our students at reduced prices compared to retail. The tools pictured are representative of the actual tools that students receive at the time of catalog publication. NLC reserves the right to change tools as necessary to provide the best quality and value to our students. 26 NORTHWEST LINEMAN COLLEGE
Tlp overview 5 6 4 7 3 8 2 9 1 10 11 12 13 14 15 16 17 18 19 20 21 22 23 2021 TELECOMMUNICATIONS LINEWORKER PROGRAM CATALOG 27
cdl/clp information Telecommunications work often requires the use of large, heavy equipment that must be driven to and from job sites, so many utility and construction companies require that their workers possess a Class A commercial driver’s license (CDL). For this reason, a commercial learner’s permit (CLP) is a requirement to graduate from the TLP. The CLP is the first step to obtaining a CDL later, and having a CLP makes you more attractive to employers. NLC recommends that you obtain your CLP or CDL prior to starting the Telecommunications Lineworker Program, if possible. TLP students also have access to NLC’s optional ELP 12330, Class A CDL Testing Course, CA to help them secure their Class A CDL. CLASS A CDL WITH AIR BRAKES • You must obtain the commercial • Successfully complete the CDL skills test ENDORSEMENT REQUIREMENTS learner’s permit (CLP) 14 days prior administered by Idaho CDL Training LLC. A valid Class A CDL with air brakes to term start to fulfill the mandatory ○ The DOT medical card is endorsement is required for graduation federal waiting period. recommended, but not required for at the Idaho campus. • Out-of-state students under the age graduation. of 21 must obtain a Class D license in NLC, in partnership with Idaho CDL Idaho, then obtain their CLP in Idaho, If you do not already possess a valid Class A Training LLC, offers an in-house option to after which they can train and test as CDL, NLC’s optional course, ELP 12330, is the aid students in fulfilling this requirement. part of ELP 12330 testing course. recommended route. However, students can To obtain a Class A CDL with air brakes obtain a Class A CDL that meets graduation endorsement through NLC’s optional Students under the age of 21 will be given requirements any way they prefer. Please course, TLP 10230, the general steps are 20 business days after the start of their contact your local DMV for details on how to outlined below: term to provide the Idaho CLP. obtain a Class A CDL in your residence state as For more detailed information on the applicable. Most states will let you complete • Required by the DMV for any out-of- your CDL skills test in Idaho except for a few steps below go to idahocdltraining.com state student who must get an Idaho (such as WA, NC) Students from states that will and click the NLC Students tab. driver’s license and Class A CLP: not let you take the CDL skills test in Idaho with • Recommended: Complete the online your home state CLP will either need to obtain ○ Birth certificate (no photocopies commercial learner’s permit test the CDL in your home state or get an Idaho accepted) or passport preparation course. There is a $35 driver’s license and Idaho CLP to be able to charge to access the online training that ○ Official state-issued driver’s license take the optional CDL course, ELP 12330. Visit is paid directly to Idaho CDL Training from their current state idahocdltraining.com for more information. LLC. Follow the directions to sign up for ○ Proof of residency (these documents Optional courses are not under the purview of the online commercial learner’s permit must show an Idaho address to the Idaho Board of Education or the Accrediting test preparation course by going to qualify to show proof of residency): Commission of Career Schools and Colleges. idahocdltraining.com and click on the NLC Students tab. • Rental agreement They are not required for program completion and do not count toward Telecommunication • Take the required knowledge written • Power bill, gas bill or any utility bill Lineworker Program hours. tests at your local Department of Motor in your name Vehicles (DMV) to gain your Class A • Bank statement learner’s permit with air brakes. Fees for the written test and CDL learner’s ○ Social Security card (original only, permit vary by state; please check with copies are not accepted) your local DMV regarding fees. (These • Successfully complete and pass the fees are outside of any Idaho CDL mandatory drug screening facilitated by Training LLC fees or NLC fees charged.) Idaho CDL Training LLC during the first • Take the three required written tests week of the term. (general knowledge, combination • Complete the recommended hours vehicles, and air brakes) to obtain a Class of instructor-led training (12 hours A CDL learner’s permit with air brakes at covering pretrip, backing, and road the DMV. driving). 28 NORTHWEST LINEMAN COLLEGE
Tlp overview cdl testing course descriptions Utility employers across the nation are increasingly requiring that new employees come to them with a valid Class A commercial driver’s license (CDL). It is NLC’s objective to create the most highly employable graduates as possible, and offering in-house Class A CDL training and testing as optional courses is another way to accomplish this goal. Students under the age of 21 will be given Idaho CDL Training LLC’s Idaho 20 business days after the start of their CLP Preparation Course + term to provide the Idaho CLP. Idaho CDL Training LLC offers an affordable online course option to help you meet Securing a commercial’s learner permit (CLP) 14 days prior to the commencement of training is a prerequisite of ELP 12330. this prerequisite. A DOT physical exam is Idaho CDL Training LLC offers a convenient recommended but not required; these online option to help students obtain A valid, Class A CDL is optional for are provided by a DOT-approved medical their CLP. Students may choose to register graduation in the TLP at the Idaho provider. Students must successfully pass online with Idaho CDL Training LLC and campus. ELP 12330 is NLC’s in-house the Idaho Transportation Department’s complete the online course in preparation option to obtain a Class A CDL. skills test to receive a Class A CDL. CDLs for obtaining the CLP. will be issued by the student’s state of residence licensing agency (the agency The course cost does not include the ELP 12330 that issued the driver’s license and CLP). fees collected by your local DMV to take CLASS A CDL TESTING COURSE the written knowledge tests required This course was designed in partnership to obtain your CLP. As a reminder, the with Idaho CDL Training LLC to deliver NLC COURSE COST: $1,500 student’s CLP must be for the same state students a customized training program TESTING FEE: $280 as the student’s driver’s license. patterned after the U.S. Department (First test is included in the course cost; of Transportation’s (DOT) proposed subsequent tests are $100 per test.) Students may secure their CLP in any way minimum standards for training tractor preferred; this online preparation course is not trailer drivers. Included in this course DRUG TESTING FEE: $65 required, but recommended to help ensure a is training and testing on the essential TOTAL: $1,565 successful pass of the written knowledge test. knowledge and practical skills necessary to successfully obtain a CDL, including See campus-specific policies for refund behind-the-wheel driving time. Successful information. ONLINE PREPERATION COURSE COST: $35 completers will obtain a Class A CDL. Course available to ID ELP students for terms beginning October 19, 2020, and after, and for ID Preparation course cost will be paid directly to Training will be delivered by Idaho CDL TLP students beginning November 16, 2020, and Idaho CDL Training LLC. Training LLC in coordination with NLC. A total of 12 hours of instruction will be after. provided during the term. Course hours may take place any day of the week, Students enrolled in ELP 12330, Class including after hours and on the weekends A CDL Testing Course, agree to be to accommodate all trainees. drug tested in accordance with DOT Students must obtain a commercial requirements before and randomly learner’s permit (CLP) as a prerequisite during training and/or testing. for this course. The CLP must be for the same state as the student’s driver’s ALL students enrolled in the Class A license and must be obtained at least 14 CDL Testing Course will be drug tested; days before CDL training begins. failure of this drug test, including for marijuana (regardless of your state of Out-of-state students under the age residence), will result in termination of 21 must obtain a Class D license in from the school as defined in the NLC Idaho, then obtain their CLP in Idaho, Drugs/Alcohol policy. after which they can train and test as part of this course. 2021 TELECOMMUNICATIONS LINEWORKER PROGRAM CATALOG 29
program calendar 2021 terms TERM 2101 Classes begin...................................Jan 25, 2021 Graduation.......................................Mar 12, 2021 TERM 2102 Classes begin................................. Mar 22, 2021 Graduation.........................................May 7, 2021 TERM 2103 Classes begin..................................May 17, 2021 Graduation........................................... Jul 2, 2021 No classes—campus closed Memorial Day*.............................. May 31, 2021 TERM 2104 Classes begin....................................Jul 12, 2021 Graduation.......................................Aug 27, 2021 TERM 2105 Classes begin................................... Sept 7, 2021 Graduation....................................... Oct 22, 2021 ated) TERM 2106 Classes begin....................................Nov 1, 2021 Graduation....................................... Dec 17, 2021 No classes—campus closed Thanksgiving Break*............Nov 25–26, 2021 d on progression. *Holidays do not count toward training time. Classes falling on holidays are rescheduled; refer to the orientation guide for dates. Although rare, dates are subject to change. Any travel arrangements should be flexible. 30 NORTHWEST LINEMAN COLLEGE
Tlp overview program costs TELECOMMUNICATIONS LINEWORKER PROGRAM TUITION AND FEES Application Fee paid with application $50 Lab Fee paid during enrollment process $500 Tuition due four weeks prior to term start $5,500 Total Tuition and Fees $6,050 required associated costs Climbing and Hand Tools, NLC Safety Shirts due four weeks prior to term start $2,800 Commercial Learner’s Permit1 $68 TOTAL TERM COST $8,918 optional courses additional cost ADVANCED TRAINING COURSES Class A CDL Testing Course and Fees $1,565 Seats are not reserved until all admission requirements are met and payment in full is received or funding has been verified for student loans or veteran administration funds. Students are encouraged to submit all requirements and pay in full as soon as possible to reserve their seat. 1. DMV costs are estimated and are subject to change without notice. Confirm current pricing with the applicable state DMV. Due to differing state laws, CDL/CLP requirements vary by campus. See CDL/CLP section of this catalog for further information. CDL/CLP costs are paid directly to the DMV. 2021 TELECOMMUNICATIONS LINEWORKER PROGRAM CATALOG 31
GENERAL INFORMATION ID STUDENT SERVICES CONTACT INFORMATION ADMISSION REQUIREMENTS instructors enrollment process STAY CONNECTED FUNDING BOARD AND OFFICERS 32 NORTHWEST LINEMAN COLLEGE
GENERAL INFORMATION general information 2021 TELECOMMUNICATIONS LINEWORKER PROGRAM CATALOG 33
STudent services Our staff helps students get access to the services that we provide in-house and also helps them find information for local providers for services such as transportation, child care, counseling, and so forth. Students needing help should consult the information below or complete a student request form, and a member of our staff will provide prompt assistance. Here are some of the student services available: ENROLLMENT ASSISTANCE STUDENT COMPLAINTS COMPANY VISITS NLC’s Admissions department is Student complaints are resolved by the It is common for utility and construction located in Meridian, Idaho. Admissions respective president of each campus. company representatives to visit NLC to consultants specialize in processing Please see the Policies section of this recruit future graduates. student applications, and are available to catalog for further information on answer questions regarding enrollment. complaint procedure. To contact a campus Admission consultants can also connect president, call 888-LINEWORK. ALUMNI JOB PORTAL students to our Student Accounts The Alumni Job Portal at lineman.edu department for financial assistance. is accessible only by alumni of NLC’s career Call 888-LINEWORK to connect with a HOUSING programs, where companies throughout consultant. NLC partners with Collegiate Housing the industry post job openings exclusively Services (FL, ID, TX) and the Historic for NLC graduates to view. Oroville Inn (CA) to provide assistance to ACADEMIC/BEHAVIORAL GUIDANCE students with short-term housing needs. It is the goal of NLC to set students up for For more information, visit lineman.edu or ALUMNI OUTREACH success, and training specialists work daily contact the Admissions department. After graduation, each graduate is to provide the guidance needed to do just contacted by a member of the campus that. Through daily and weekly behavioral staff to follow up on employment status and academic assessments, routine EMPLOYMENT ASSISTANCE and job prospects, and to offer assistance one-on-one evaluations, and academic NLC works diligently to make sure with transcripts and NLC-related topics. improvement plans, instructors provide students have everything they need to expertise and encouragement. find gainful employment after graduation. Through initiatives taught in the Career Planning and Strategies course, students STUDENT RECORDS learn how to write résumés and cover The Office of the Registrar is located letters, proper interviewing behavior, in Meridian, Idaho. The registrar is and effective methods for researching responsible for maintaining student job opportunities—all tailored to hiring records. To connect with the registrar’s practices common in the utility-delivery office, call 888-LINEWORK. industry. 34 NORTHWEST LINEMAN COLLEGE
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