PowerStream has donated one of its bucket trucks to Conestoga College in Ingersoll, Ont., "in recognition of the need to assist in the education and training of future Powerline Technicians for Ontario's electricity industry". Students at Conestoga's Powerline Technician program learn the skills required for the construction, maintenance and repair of overhead and underground power distribution systems and may also work on transmission lines.
"PowerStream is a regular contributor to the Powerline Technician program, donating materials, tools and providing us with regular guest-speaker appearances," said Rex Allen, coordinator of Conestoga College's Powerline Technician program. "We are grateful for our partnership with PowerStream as they allow us the ability to provide to our students top quality learning."
The bucket truck, an aerial model with a working height of 75 ft, is the largest that has been donated to the college to date. Access to a vehicle of this size benefits students by providing them with the opportunity to operate a larger bucket truck and gain more practical work experience, said PowerStream.
The donation stems from a broader relationship between PowerStream and Conestoga College, which began more than two years ago. The utility has representation on Conestoga College's program advisory committee and each year employs several of the college's powerline technician students for co-op.
"Ontario's electricity industry, a mature and evolving industry, is anticipating a large number of skilled employee retirements in the years ahead, especially in trades like powerline technicians," said Frank Scarpitti, chair of PowerStream. "Our strategy to keep our talent and tools updated includes working with post-secondary schools to help train and prepare future employees."
