For many, becoming a line installer and repairer can be a positive career move, bringing a lucrative salary after a relatively short an inexpensive training. If you’re thinking this might be the right path for you, what are the next steps you’ll have to take? Below, we have some tips on how to become a lineman, so you can get yourself to the next stages toward a new career!
Learn more about the job
Before you dive right in and enroll in a lineman training program, you’ll want to be sure that the career you’re training for is a good fit. After all, you don’t want to invest your time, money, and energy into a whole new job, only to discover later that it’s not compatible with you! Are you interested in how to safely handle electricity? Would you prefer to work outside as opposed to an office? Do the expected salaries of your job prospects match your financial goals? Ask questions about what a typical workday will look like, as well as what you want for yourself, so you can be sure everything is aligned.
Research lineman certification programs
Once you know you’re on the right path, you’ll want to find the best possible education — on average, lineman training programs last 10–15 weeks and require no formal degree. Explore all of the programs in your area and research each one to narrow down your top options. Make sure to read online reviews; compare course descriptions, schedules, and costs; and if possible talk to instructors and administrators or even current and former students. It’s also a good idea to check if they have any career assistance available for enrollees. This way, you can be confident you’re receiving the biggest benefit for the tuition cost.
Figure out how to pay for it
Oftentimes, someone’s best option is to pay upfront. However, that’s not necessarily an option for everyone. If you’ve decided that it would be better to break up tuition payments instead, check to see what alternative payment methods are available for your program. Ask your school admins if they provide any options for their students, and also check out third parties as well. You might be able to use a payment plan or a student loan — there may even be scholarship, grant, or employer reimbursement opportunities available!
Get excited for the next chapter in your life
While gaining skills and starting out in a new career can be intimidating, it can also be exciting! Whether you’re taking the initial steps towards your very first job, or switching to line installation and repair from an entirely different field, now that you know how to become a lineman, it’s time to enjoy the path you’re on and to get ready for great things in store.
