SPC partners with Duke Energy to showcase lineworker skills and safety

St. Petersburg College (SPC) displays its partnership with Duke Energy Florida at the Duke Energy Florida Lineman’s Rodeo on March 8 at Duke Energy Winter Garden Training Facility, 402 E. Crown Point Road, from 9:30 to 11 a.m.

The annual event allows utility lineworkers from across the state to showcase their skills and safety practices. Various events will simulate real-life scenarios that lineworkers encounter including equipment repairs, pole climbs and even rescue operations. Judges evaluate competitors on speed, technique and adherence to safety protocols. Top performers may have the opportunity to advance to the International Lineman's Rodeo, competing against peers from around the world. SPC will have around 20 students at the event to talk with attendees about the College’s high-quality lineworker program.

“Our lineworker program stands out as the premier hands-on, skill-based training initiative, developed in collaboration with several energy partners,” said Belinthia Berry, Dean of Workforce Development at SPC. “Our partnership with Duke Energy has been instrumental in this success, evolving into a robust investment in training high-quality candidates for our energy partners' workforce pipelines. Together, we are committed to fostering the next generation of skilled professionals in the energy sector.”

SPC has been working to fill the gap of the shortage of power workers since 2021 when they opened their electrical lineworker training ground. The College’s comprehensive lineworker program is designed to prepare students for careers in the utility industry. The program provides hands-on training in essential skills, such as pole climbing, electrical safety, and equipment operation, which are critical for working as a lineworker. The program’s curriculum is designed to meet industry standards, ensuring graduates are well-equipped to enter the workforce with the knowledge and skills needed for success in the field.

“The St. Pete College lineworker program demonstrates outstanding success with its consistent placement of numerous graduates. Duke Energy Florida is proud to be a dedicated partner to the program,” said Melissa Seixas, Duke Energy Florida state president. “The students joining alongside Duke Energy Florida lineworkers and senior leadership today highlight the robust partnership between our organizations and the vibrant future for our workforce.”

Duke Energy Florida plays a key role in supporting training programs like SPC's Linemen Program and initially invested $100,000 into SPC’s program. The company is committed to ensuring a reliable, safe power grid and regularly works with educational institutions to help train the next generation of skilled workers. SPC and Duke Energy help strengthen the utility workforce in Florida and provide valuable career opportunities for students in the field of electrical utility services.

The family-friendly Lineman’s Rodeo will also offer vendor booths, cooking competitions, door prizes and more. It is an amazing opportunity for attendees to learn about the vital work of lineworkers and engage with the community.