CONESTOGA COLLEGE
Four vehicles donated to Powerline Technician program by GrandBridge Energy

Hands-on learning for students in Conestoga's Powerline Technician program will get a boost with another donation of utility vehicles from GrandBridge Energy.

GrandBridge Energy donated four vehicles to Conestoga's Powerline Technician program.

 

The energy provider recently donated two utility vehicles, a bucket truck and a pickup truck to the Ingersoll Skills Training Centre, which has a dedicated, on-site training yard where students learn the practical skills needed to work in the electrical utilities industry. This follows GrandBridge's 2022 donation of a bucket truck, two pickup trucks and an axle pole trailer.

GrandBridge Energy is a proud supporter of Conestoga. The company employs many graduates of Conestoga's Powerline Technician program, as well as offering co-op and summer student opportunities and sponsoring annual student awards. Employees volunteer their time on Program Advisory Committees, and recently attended the MySafeWork event at the Brantford campus.

"Our donation of two utility vehicles reinforces the strong relationship that GrandBridge Energy and Conestoga College have built over several years. We are committed to fostering learning opportunities that support the next generation of skilled trades professionals who will play a key role in the future success of our industry," said Sarah Hughes, GrandBridge president and chief executive officer.

Conestoga is grateful for the continued support and generosity, said Angelo Cosco, a chair in the School of Trades & Apprenticeship.

"This donation will enable our students to learn and train with modern technology, ensuring they are prepared with the skills and knowledge needed for successful careers. We look forward to continuing our partnership and working together to support the next generation of skilled trades professionals."

Electrical utilities from across Ontario support the program by providing donations, guest instruction and co-op opportunities. Their extensive participation helps ensure students develop skills to meet industry's latest innovations.

GrandBridge Energy Powerline Technician apprentices Thomas Rerrie and Ethan Bruce attended the handover, and attested to the value the vehicles will bring to the program. Both graduated in 2023 and had a co-op placement at GrandBridge.

"Using utility equipment as part of my training at Conestoga helped me build confidence and develop vital skills that can only be achieved through hands-on learning," Bruce said.

Rerrie added: "Training with utility vehicles at Conestoga's Ingersoll Skills Training Centre allowed me to gain practical experience to prepare for real-life situations in the workplace."

Conestoga's two-year Powerline Technician diploma is a skills-based program offering a unique opportunity to prepare for all facets of the Powerline Technician occupation. Students benefit from daily use and training on an extensive fleet of industry-standard vehicles and work equipment.

Students will learn the skills required for construction, maintenance and repair of overhead and underground power-distribution systems through significant hands-on practical skills development and classroom learning. Students have the opportunity to complete the initial level(s) of apprenticeship trade schooling and become registered as a Powerline Technician Apprentice (434A). Also, students will have the opportunity to take additional industry-specific courses, and two optional co-op terms are incorporated into the program.