At Taylor Electric, we believe in building a strong, skilled workforce from within, and that comes from helping our technicians rise to greatness. That’s why we send our most promising linemen to the prestigious four-year lineman training program offered by the Tennessee Valley Public Power Association (TVPPA).
As a nonprofit, regional service organization, TVPPA represents the interests of consumer-owned electric utilities operating within the Tennessee Valley Authority (TVA) service area. TVPPA members include both municipal and electric cooperatives, and they serve more than 9 million people in Alabama, Georgia, Tennessee, Mississippi, Kentucky, North Carolina and Virginia.
This long-term investment in Taylor Electric employees ensures they receive the best possible training and develop the skills necessary to keep the power flowing safely and efficiently.
A Pathway to Success
For those new to the profession, becoming a lineman is not just about climbing poles and handling high-voltage lines—it’s about discipline, skill, and commitment to safety. Taylor Electric offers a structured path for our linemen to grow, starting from an entry-level apprentice and culminating in the esteemed status of journeyman lineman.
Here’s how the journey unfolds:
Step 1: The First Year
New employees start by proving their dedication and aptitude in the field. After working for Taylor Electric for one year, those who demonstrate strong potential are chosen to enter the four-year apprenticeship program. This opportunity sets them on a clear path to mastering the trade.
Step 2: Lineman C (0-4 Years of Experience)
Once enrolled in the TVPPA program, apprentices begin as Lineman C. During this time, they develop foundational skills such as understanding electrical currents, learning to use specialized tools, and mastering safety and rescue techniques. They also become familiar with the essential equipment required to perform their duties safely and effectively.
Step 3: Lineman B (4-6 Years of Experience)
After completing at least four years of training and gaining hands-on experience, linemen advance to Lineman B. At this stage, they take on greater responsibilities, working on more complex assignments under the supervision of seasoned professionals.
Step 4: Lineman A (6-10 Years of Experience)
With six to ten years of field experience, linemen earn the Lineman A classification. By this point, they have developed advanced technical skills, including installing protective grounding, working with substation operating equipment, and handling emergency transformer servicing.
Step 5: Journeyman Lineman (10+ Years of Experience)
After a decade of hard work and experience, linemen earn the title of Journeyman. These professionals have amassed what is often called “sweat equity”—the value they have added to Taylor Electric through years of dedication, skill development, and hands-on problem-solving. Journeymen are trusted experts who not only perform high-level work but also mentor apprentices and newer linemen in the field.
TVPPA Lineman Training
The TVPPA lineman training program is one of the best in the industry, designed to build strong, capable linemen through two levels of education:
Apprentice Lineman Training
This first stage of training lays the foundation for a successful career. Apprentices learn about:
- The fundamentals of electricity and electrical current
- The tools and equipment used in the trade
- Safety and rescue procedures
- Best practices for working in the field
Advanced Lineman Training
After mastering the basics, linemen move on to advanced training, which covers:
- Installing protective grounding to enhance safety
- Operating substation equipment
- Servicing transformers in emergency situations
- Utilizing system protective devices for power distribution
By the time linemen complete TVPPA’s rigorous training, they are fully equipped to handle the demands of the job, ensuring Taylor Electric continues delivering reliable power to the community.
Building a Future at Taylor Electric
Taylor Electric is committed to fostering growth and development among our linemen. Through the TVPPA training program, we provide a clear career path from apprentice to journeyman, ensuring that our employees receive the best education and hands-on experience available. By investing in our workforce, we create a safer, more efficient, and highly skilled team dedicated to keeping the lights on for our customers.
If you’re looking for a career that offers both stability and advancement, consider joining the Taylor Electric team. With hard work and determination, you too can climb the ranks and become a highly respected journeyman lineman.