Forsyth Tech’s Electrical Lineman Academy was named the Outstanding Pre-Apprenticeship Program in the state at the 2019 ApprenticeshipNC Conference banquet on April 11, in Wilmington, N.C. Sponsored by the North Carolina Community College System, ApprenticeshipNC ensures North Carolina has an innovative, relevant, effective, and efficient workforce development system that develops adaptable, work ready, skilled talent to meet the current and future needs of workers and businesses to achieve and sustain economic prosperity.

Nominees for an ApprenticeshipNC Outstanding Award truly represent the best practices for the apprenticeship model in N.C.

Since 2013, the Electrical Lineman Academy has prepared individuals for work as entry-level line workers. The curriculum is 288 hours and those hours are credited toward the individuals’ apprenticeship leading to a journeyman’s card. The curriculum covers both the basic technical skills, as well as, job readiness. If a student meets all the skill requirements, the student will receive a recommendation from the instructor to all prospective employers of that student.

“This award is a tremendous honor for our instructors and staff in the Electrical Lineman program,” said Sharon Anderson, dean, Community and Economic Development Programs at Forsyth Tech. “Receiving recognition from peers in the field shows respect for Forsyth Tech’s program leadership, which in turn strengthens the caliber of our graduates.”

 Of the 469 graduates of the Electrical Lineman program, 30 have gone directly into a Registered Apprenticeship Program.

Sharon Anderson, dean of Community and Economic Development Programs at Forsyth Tech and George Speight, instructor, Electrical Lineman program accepting the award.

About Forsyth Technical Community College

Forsyth Technical Community College provides students with guided educational pathways into a competitive workforce for the community and global economy. The college offers associate degrees, diplomas, and certificates in more than 200 programs of study, including programs that promote personal and professional development through non-credit courses and seminars, as well as customized training for business and industry. Forsyth Tech serves more than 35,000 students with approximately 1,500 full and part-time faculty and staff.  For additional information, please visit forsythtech.edu and follow Forsyth Tech on Facebook, Twitter and LinkedIn.