SUNY Broome’s Lineworker Training Program equips students with the skills and knowledge needed for various roles in the utility industry, addressing the growing demand for skilled labor in the Southern Tier.
The program combines classroom instruction with practical, hands-on training at a dedicated pole yard, ensuring students gain both theoretical and real-world experience.
If you are interested in staying updated about future Lineworker Program offerings, complete our SUNY Broome Lineworker Training Program Interest Form.
Program Interest Form.
Information regarding the 2026 program will be available this fall, including the cost and specific dates.
The program is structured in three phases.
- Training Part 1: April through May (6 weeks)
- Paid Internship (with NYSEG): June through September (16 weeks)
- Training Part 2: September through October (4 weeks)
Potential participants must meet the following qualifications:
- Attend a lineworker information session
- Pass a physical assessment
- Submit an application
- Possess a high school diploma or its equivalent
- Be 18 years or older
- Must be proficient in the English language, speaking and writing
- Hold a valid driver’s license and be able to transport yourself to and from the training yard, SUNY Broome, and your assigned internship site
- Additional qualifications for the internship are listed below
This program represents a collaborative effort between SUNY Broome, local employers, and organizations such as NYSEG and IBEW Local 10, with a shared goal of developing a skilled workforce and fostering economic growth in the region. SUNY Broome is committed to fostering diversity in the utility industry. Through partnerships with community organizations, we aim to create pathways for underrepresented groups to pursue rewarding careers.
For more information, contact us at 607-778-5012 or workforce@sunybroome.edu.
FAQs
Attending an information session is a required part of the application process for all prospective students. We have spread them out over various days and times, as well as virtual offerings to best accommodate different schedules.
This program is a big commitment and attending the information session is part of that commitment.
The potential participant must be the one attending the information session, you cannot have someone attend on your behalf. You can bring someone with you, however.
While job placement is not guaranteed, our team is committed to supporting graduates through resume reviews, interview preparation, and networking opportunities with hiring managers from leading utility companies.
Potential job titles include lineworker, groundman, utility technician, and related roles, depending on the hiring company.
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No. You must be 18 and have a high school diploma or GED at the start of the program.
You may be eligible to receive funding assistance from your local Workforce Development Board. Broome Tioga Workforce has assisted participants previously, and information for offices across New York State can be found at NYS Local Workforce Development Boards.
As this program is a non-credit program, Federal Financial aid is not available. You may consider other funding sources such as a personal loan from a bank or outside scholarships.
We are currently exploring housing options for participants traveling from outside the region. Please check back for updates or contact us for assistance.
The program fee includes all essential climbing equipment and tools. Students must provide their own climbing boots, which meet the following specifications: Boots need to have an EH (electric hazard) designation, have a composite toe, and a steel shank. Some local places you can go include : Power and Paddle in Candor, Boot Barn in Vestal, Homer Men and Boys, and New Shoe Store Plus which has a few places in PA including Montrose.
Gloves and glasses are provided, but students may also wish to purchase their own.
If you already have climbing equipment it will need to be inspected by one of our instructors and approved for use. It may reduce your program cost, depending on what equipment you have and/or still need.
A CDL is not required, nor is it a part of the current program. Many lineworker positions prefer applicants to have a CDL, but may pay for new hires to earn this credential. SUNY Broome is working with a local company to have an add-on option available at the end of the program for an additional fee.
The program is Monday through Friday, 8 hours a day. Students are expected to attend every class, unless there is an emergency. If you have unexcused absences you may be dismissed from the program.
Refunds are available up until 5 business days before the start of the program.
This is a demanding program, after you learn the detailed schedule you can decide if you have time.
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- Have earned a high school diploma or GED
- Be eligible to obtain and maintain a Commercial Driver License (CDL). (Note, it is not required that a participant have their CDL or earn it during this program, but may be a requirement for employment at some employers.)
- Pass a drug screening
- Must be proficient in the English language, speaking and writing
- Successfully pass and complete Part 1 of the SUNY Broome lineworker training program
- Submit required materials to NYSEG
Internship sites will be assigned by NYSEG based on the capacity at their various locations. You may need to travel within New York State to reach your internship site.
Thank you to Buckingham Manufacturing and Lineman Supply for their support with equipment for this program.
