Home / Education / Mitchell Tech Opens First Underground Powerline Lab
Mitchell Tech Opens First Underground Powerline Lab
4 Sep
Summary
- New facility offers year-round underground powerline training.
- Facility funded by a $4 million U.S. grant and local support.
- Program boasts a 98% job placement rate for graduates.
Mitchell Technical College unveiled its new Touchstone Energy Utilities Lab on September 3, a state-of-the-art facility 100% dedicated to underground powerline training. This 34,000-square-foot building provides students with a controlled environment to practice crucial skills regardless of outdoor weather.
The lab allows for year-round operation, preventing training shutdowns during winter months when the ground freezes. Students can safely simulate real-world scenarios and operate equipment, a significant improvement over previous training methods.
This initiative received $4 million from a U.S. Department of Commerce grant, supplemented by local funding, including contributions from industry partners like Touchstone Energy Cooperatives. The program boasts an impressive 98% job placement rate, highlighting the high demand for its graduates.
School officials and industry leaders emphasized the facility's role in workforce development and preparing the next generation of skilled utility professionals. The expansion signifies Mitchell Tech's commitment to meeting industry demands and strengthening the regional workforce.
