Lineman training camp in Far East El Paso

EL PASO, Texas (KVIA) -- Out in Far East El Paso, there is a training facility where future linemen can learn how to climb the vertical 30-40 foot wooden poles you see along the roadways and in neighborhoods. In a partnership between Dona Ana Community College and El Paso Electric, those interested in a future career of being a lineman, have the advantageous opportunity to see what it takes to do the difficult task.

Each year, there is a new class that goes through the physical assessment to see who really has what it takes. In order to be a linemen you have to not be afraid of heights, be able to work under pressure, and be physically able to complete the job as well. From a large group of initial candidates, only some have all the qualities to make it into the four-year-long apprenticeship program.

In the physical assessment, one learns the basics of how to climb the wooden pole. From learning about the gear, to using the spikes and belts to climb vertically, the process can be a complicated one. At the end of the day, not everyone makes it through the training, which shows just how skilled the local EP Electric linemen are.

If you may be interested in seeing what it takes to be a lineman, you should reach out to EP Electric and ask about their Dona Ana Community College partnership to get started, or click here for their website.